Adams vs Backus Chapian Essay - 1257 Words

Theory Critique: Adams vs. Backus amp; Chapian: How to help people change, by Dr. Jay E. Adams and Telling yourself the truth, by Dr. William Backus and Marie Chapian Ebony Smith Liberty University Counseling 507, Theology amp; Spirituality in Counseling Dr. Ben Omungu February 4, 2012 Theory Critique of Adams vs. Backus amp; Chapian: How to help people change by Dr. Jay E. Adams and Telling yourself the truth by Dr. William Backus and Marie Chapian. There are many views held among Christian counselors about how to Scripturally approach changing human behavior. For some who seek to base the motivation for change on Biblical grounds, an approach to counseling is geared toward changes that would allow one to conform more†¦show more content†¦Adams also strongly believes that in order for counseling to be considered truly scriptural, it must include evangelism. His first step in his four- step Biblical process which he points out as teaching. Within these four steps (teaching, conviction, correction, and training in righteousness) we are committed to an accountable relationship which leads counselees in a committed training in righteousness. His unique contributions are based on his very clearly defined goals for counseling, He asks the question, â€Å"what are we trying to change people into?†(p.4) This leads us to deal with the human heart, and Adams concludes that this change is dependent upon the ministry of the Holy Spirit. â€Å"The overarching goal of Christian counseling is to be transformed and renewed in our hearts and minds to receive the power to walk in Christ-likeness and consequently having powerful impact on our relationships and behavior.† (Hawkins 2012) Change in Adam’s view is a process that he sees in light of 2 Timothy 3:14-17 The word of God is inspired by God and is essential in the counseling process therefore making it unique from any other resource. Scripture is the only resource that makes us wise when compared to secular knowledge. It must be seen as sufficient in and of itself to guide the process of the counseling ministry. A second