A COMPARISON OF PSYCHOLOGY WITH BIBLICAL CHRISTIANITY
by Peggi Klubnik
Postmodernism’s emphasis on that which is relative, relational and relevant makes many eager adherents of the practices of psychology. Claiming to be a science, psychology uses scientific principles for the observation of human behavior. Yet the evaluation of data is often relative and non-scientific.
Psychology is not a theology, yet it attempts to define both God and man. The existence of God is denied and man is perceived as basically good, without sin. Therefore, there is no need for judgment or atonement of sin. Christ’s death for sinful man becomes meaningless and unnecessary.
Christian psychologists and psychiatrists who claim psychological theories and therapy are necessary to deal with human issues ignore the fact that for thousands of years, the Bible has been sufficient. The inspired Word of God is as relevant and useful today as when it was written.
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16).
The purpose of psychology appears to be “know thyself” with a goal to the betterment of mankind. Most psychological theories seek to explain why people do what they do, and how they can become whole. There is an emphasis on self-help and a specially trained, insight-oriented therapist.
Psychology depends upon relationships and self-introspection. It is problem oriented. Needs become paramount in one’s life. However, in direct contrast is the biblical admonition to know and love the Lord God, creator of self.
Secural humanism is gaining access into Christianity through psychology. Hypnotism, recollection, dream therapy, meditation (yoga), visualization, human solutions to spiritual problems, emphasis on self (self-image), higher consciousness, primal therapy, focus on experience, and a lack of absolutes are all elements of psychology.
Christians are acquiring the terminology of psychology, i.e., sin is labeled as dysfunction. Psychology’s solutions and remedies are often unquestioned when they are accompanied by Scripture verses. For example, a good self image becomes acceptable and even desirable if it is acquired through a focus on the work of Christ. Relationships are encouraged as an solution to emotional problems. Psychological theory and techniques are be merely human solutions to spiritual problems and tend to mask the genuine issues. There is a danger of accepting human rather than supernatural methods of dealing with problems in our lives. As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we must accept the challenge of Scripture to compare every teaching with Scripture (Acts 17:11).
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:8).
Copyright by Biblical Resources, Inc.
marisol salinas says
Thank you for the scriptures and literature I would like to know more is there anything that you could send me I would appreciate it very much thank you.
Jim Klubnik says
What in particular are you interested in?
KJ says
Read the book “why Christians can’t trust psychology”
Thomas says
Am blessed to have this insight into this Biblical understanding can you give more?
Peggi Klubnik says
This is such a broad subject. Do you have a specific question?
Faith Restoration Ministries International says
Thank you for the insight on Psychology…. This article confirms my thoughts and what the Holy Spirit reveals concerning psychology -although, there are certain practical aspects which can be incorporated in a therapy session, where the Bible does not give specific practical interpretation. This does not say I am sold on the science since it has been corrupted by subjective practitioners. I do believe, that similar to others God-given gifts this was given by God, but was contaminated in the Garden of Eden when Satan deceived Eve (Genesis ). God has given us many gifts, which have been misused and abused by mankind. For example, love, family life, and so many others… Thanks again
Peggi Klubnik says
If you are saying Psychology is a God-given gift, I would disagree. It is not based on Scripture and in fact opposes Scripture in many ways. Its “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” may change its definitions of disorders to comply with popular opinion. Scripture never changes and should be our authority.
“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NASB95)
“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;” (2 Timothy 3:16, NASB95)
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.” (2 Timothy 4:3–4, NASB95)
Bethany says
Thank you!
Lea Walker says
Thank you for this article, it was very good.
I believe, in response to your answer that psychology is not a God-given gift, that it is. God gave us the curiosity to want to study and learn about ourselves, but we have not used this gift wisely, and have twisted it to (once again) suit man’s purposes.
Victoria Duncan says
Hello friend,
I’m in my senior year of my BS Psychology, and I am citing your article in an essay I’m writing.
Could you provide me with the year this was uploaded into the article section of the Biblical Resources Inc. website?
Thanks so much.
Victoria Duncan says
Published! Haha, still learning all of this.
Peggi Klubnik says
Victoria, this was originally published January 15, 2012. Usually when you use an internet article, you should reference the date you read or copied the article.
Geremew Gebrekidan says
thanks