This book does not focus on the differences between Christianity and Psychology but more so on how the two principles can be combined to offer better insight into the issues of the world. There are five integration models discussed: enemies, spies, colonialists, neutral parties, and allies all subscribing to a higher goal of community it uses theological and psychological concepts together to lead to better understanding of the truth (Entwistle 2010).
The enemies’ model focuses on Christianity and Psychology as entities they need to be kept separate.
The spies’ model talks of how Psychology takes what it wants from Christianity to better its own position on certain issues. The colonialists’ model is based on one taking over the other and therefore leaving the other as second class. The neutral parties’ model is based on each one recognizing the other as long as they do not infringe on the others beliefs or cross into their boundaries. The Allies’ model is based on the fact that truth is known by God and that He is superior over everything. The subscribing to a higher goal of community is the belief that each works together as a team to help humanity.
Entwistle believes that when God created humans, He gave birth to psychology/human behavior and when God gave us His word, He established the foundations of theology (Entwistle 2010).
Entwistle is setting the foundation that in order to be a better counselor or psychologist one needs to understand both Psychology and Christianity. Whenever there is a conflict between the two both of the books need to be studied to find the discrepancy. Once the discrepancy is found, then and only then can the information be useful.
The Term Paper on The existence of God Based on Religious Experience
1. Examine the strengths and weaknesses of the argument for the existence of God based on religious experience. (18) 2. ‘The argument merely indicates the probability of God and this is of little value to a religious believer.’ Discuss. (12) In contrast to the classical arguments for the existence of God, namely the ontological, cosmological and teleological arguments, the argument from religious ...
Basically, the problem with the two is that they do not come with precise directions (Entwistle 2010).
God gave us both books but he also gave each person a different way of reasoning what was written. Our own upbringing and personal circumstances will influence our interpretation between the two but understanding that will make us a better society and therefore humanity will be better served. Epistemology is described as the pursuit of truth (Entwistle 2010).
There is a constant battle between good and evil, truth and knowledge (human thinking or reaction to truth).
Understanding these battles is very important in order to help counsel or console others, but it can be made easier if both Psychology and Christianity are used together. Seeking the truth while only understanding one or the other will lead to a half-truth and false understanding, which could lead to a false answer. Therefore, once we recognize our limitations, alternative perspectives should be considered essential. Reference Entwistle, D. (2010).
Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: an introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration. (2nd ed).
Eugene, OR: Cascade Books
