Page 16 - Biblical Counseling I Textbook

People are capable of making accurate observations of the world.
As we think about the discoveries of modern science, and especially modern psychology, we must be careful to
note that God has given humans an amazing capacity for knowledge. Believer and unbeliever alike can observe
the world with great insight and detail and of categorizing these observations into systems and patterns that
accurately represent the truth. We ought not to reject any information collected and collated by non-Christian
sources simply because they reject our biblical worldview. Much of this observational research can be very
helpful in understanding the common ways in which people respond to their environments and circumstances.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that the temptations that men face are common to all. Since this is true, it
ought not surprise us when careful observers are able to identify patterns of behavior in response to the various
forms of suffering in the world.

General revelation offers no hope for change where it matters most (John 15:5).
Though the unbelieving world can make great observations concerning problem behaviors and emotions, they
are unable to offer the right solutions. This is not to say that they cannot alleviate the experiences of suffering to
some degree or effectively help people make behavioral changes that will improve their lives and the lives of
others, but these improvements will always only be temporal and external at best. The world cannot offer true
and lasting hope for the soul. They cannot lead people to the peace of Christ. The end of their counsel is still
death and eternal separation from God.

What role does special revelation play?
• God has revealed Himself in His Son (Heb. 1:2-3)
• In the Bible God not only revealed truth about Himself and truth about humanity (especially in
comparison), but He also revealed His plan of redemption.
• The Bible is the only sufficient resource for providing true help (2 Tim. 3:17; 2 Peter 1:2-3).
• God no longer “speaks” outside of His Word (Heb. 1:1-2).

The gospel is the only message that holds out hope for true change for everyone.
What is the “simple” gospel?

At its most basic level, the gospel is the good news message of salvation in Christ alone (Mark 1:14-15; 1 Cor.
15:3-4). In this respect, it answers four essential questions.
• Who is God and what are His expectations of humanity?
• Who is man and what is his condition in relation to God?

• Who is Christ and what did He accomplish?
• How do we rightly respond to God as a result?

The gospel is so much more than what is needed for entrance into the kingdom of God.

“It is not the ABCs of our faith, but the A-Z of our faith.” Timothy Keller

The gospel is about redemption -- THE message of the Bible.
Luke 24:27; John 5:46; Galatians 3:8
and compare…

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