Using Scripture in Counseling I. There are several things that we must believe about the Scripture. A. It is the word of God (I Th. 2:13). B. It represents the will of God (Rom. 12:2). C. It is the ultimate authority over the believer’s life (Deut. 4:1-2; Rev. 22:18-19).

D. It gives us an accurate view of the heart of man (Ps. 51:5; Jer D. It gives us an accurate view of the heart of man (Ps. 51:5; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 7:15-25). E. It gives us all that we need to live godly in Christ Jesus (II Pet. 1:2-4).

F. It will thoroughly equip us for every good work (II Tim. 3:16-17). “The idea is, that whatever good work the man of God desires to perform, or however perfect he aims to be, he will find no deficiency in the Scriptures, but will find there the most ample instructions that he needs.” –Barnes Notes

G. It is powerful in and of itself to reveal hearts and affect change (Ps. 107:19-20; Is. 55:10-11; Heb. 4:12). H. It must not be mixed with humanistic thought (I Cor. 2:14). I. It is the standard by which we measure all activity (Is. 8:19-20). J. It gives an accurate assessment of human behavior (I Cor. 6:9-11).

K. It has the power to set our thinking straight (Ps. 33:4). L. It can give us certainty in an age of uncertainty; it is a sure foundation and it offers a sure reward (Ps. 119:89; I Pet. 1:25; I John 2:17).

II. There are several ways that the Scriptures will assist us in the counseling process. The Scriptures can assist the counselor in… A. Labeling the specific problem. B. Locating specific passages that relate to the problem (See Supplement).

C. Identifying scriptural principles that may apply to the situation. D. Identifying scriptural solutions to the specific problem. E. Developing a biblical plan of action. Biblical plans of action will always include words like repentance, confession, forgiveness, restitution, reconciliation, putting off and putting on.

F. Following through on the biblical plan of action. 1. For this we need grace. 2. For this we need the power of the Holy Spirit. 3. For this we need positive encouragement.

III. There are certain times when it is appropriate to use the scripture to challenge the counselee. A. When the counselee seems to be resisting you or accusing you of being too hard. B. When the counselee does not consider their activity to be sinful. C. When the counselee needs to be warned of ultimate judgment and accountability.

D. When the counselee needs to be assured of God’s promises to them. E. When the counselee doubts God’s love and genuine concern for them. F. When the counselee feels like their situation is hopeless. G. When the counselee needs a challenge to live by faith not by feelings.

IV. There are several ways to use the scripture in the counseling process. A. Reading specific scriptures that apply to problem or solution areas. B. Giving homework assignments may include Bible reading and memorization.