Theory Critique 'Adams And Backus'
Theory Critique 1 - Adams and Backus
Anonymous Graduate Student
Liberty University
Theory Critique I – Adams and Backus
There exist several theories among Christian counselors which attempt to incorporate the Word of God into the counseling process. This critique will examine the theories and beliefs of Dr. Jay E. Adams as outlined in his book, How to Help People Change, as well as the work by William Backus and Marie Chapian as presented in their book, Telling Yourself the Truth. All three authors are in agreement with the ancient writings in scripture which state “...there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9b, NKJV), as each sets forth time-tested precepts which have been in practice for centuries. Principles taught and encouraged by counselors, applying the Word of God, which when practiced often succeed in bringing about God-honoring transformation in the lives and relationships of counselees (Adams, 1986; Backus & Chapian, 2000). …show more content…
Change is brought about by the ministry of the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) by counselors who come alongside the work of the Holy Spirit to precipitate change in counselees. According to Adams (1986), the counselor must become an expert in Bible knowledge and interpretation while utilizing what he terms the nouthetic model of counseling - a four-step biblical process which includes: teaching, conviction, correction, and disciplined training in righteousness. As counselors work to guide and teach counselees, they assist in promoting an inner change of the heart of the counselee toward God. For if a problem is not addressed on the vertical plane which encourages Christlikeness, there is “no way apparently good results can hold up in the long run” (Adams, 1986, p.
Anonymous Graduate Student
Liberty University
Theory Critique I – Adams and Backus
There exist several theories among Christian counselors which attempt to incorporate the Word of God into the counseling process. This critique will examine the theories and beliefs of Dr. Jay E. Adams as outlined in his book, How to Help People Change, as well as the work by William Backus and Marie Chapian as presented in their book, Telling Yourself the Truth. All three authors are in agreement with the ancient writings in scripture which state “...there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9b, NKJV), as each sets forth time-tested precepts which have been in practice for centuries. Principles taught and encouraged by counselors, applying the Word of God, which when practiced often succeed in bringing about God-honoring transformation in the lives and relationships of counselees (Adams, 1986; Backus & Chapian, 2000). …show more content…
Change is brought about by the ministry of the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) by counselors who come alongside the work of the Holy Spirit to precipitate change in counselees. According to Adams (1986), the counselor must become an expert in Bible knowledge and interpretation while utilizing what he terms the nouthetic model of counseling - a four-step biblical process which includes: teaching, conviction, correction, and disciplined training in righteousness. As counselors work to guide and teach counselees, they assist in promoting an inner change of the heart of the counselee toward God. For if a problem is not addressed on the vertical plane which encourages Christlikeness, there is “no way apparently good results can hold up in the long run” (Adams, 1986, p.