BDC 101 Relationship of Counseling

Ministering The Word Personally:
Man to Man, Husband to Wife,
Woman to Woman, Parent to Child

After ten years of teaching this 5-level apprenticeship process, I decided to switch the first two courses from levels one and two. Now we start at level one with: "The Relationship of Counseling: Learning to Listen Prayerfully & Speak God's Truth in Love". The reasoning is because far too often when students learn the principles before they learn the process of listening and speaking the truth in love, they then go out and ineffectively attempt to deliver God's counsel to those in need. So we've chosen to put this course on relationship first, and open it up to everyone, even to those who have never taken the principles course. If you are timid and want to learn how to speak the truth more boldly, or if you are naturally bold and need to learn to be more loving and gentle, God's principles in this course will help you.

This workbook generally follows the outline from section III of the book: BIBLICAL COUNSELING, by my friend, Dr. Wayne Mack, of The Master's College.
However, my workbook is not an official representation of their institution, beliefs or practices.

BC 101	The Relationship of Counseling: Listening & Speaking the Truth in Love UPDATED Feb 2001 © 1998 by Sid Galloway email = sid@soulcare.org
Ezra 7:10	Name__________________ Class Starting Date_________
WEEK	HOMEWORK (Guided Application Projects - G.A.P. from head to action) * Go to the end of each week's lesson for more details of the homework items.
Week 1 Involvement	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 173-188 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (John 16:13 a 17:17 ) Apply F. Disagree
Week 2 Inspiring	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 189-209 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (1 Pe 1:13 15 ), Apply F. Disagree
Week 3 Investing	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 210-230 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (Pro 18:13 &17 ), Apply F. Disagree
Week 4 Interpreting	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 231-241 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Mem (Heb 4:12 ), Apply F. Disagree
Week 5 Instructing	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 250-267 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (1 Th 2:7 , 8 ), Apply F. Disagree
Week 6 Inducing	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 268-283 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (2 Ti 2:24 ,26 ), ApplyF. Disagree
Week 7 Implementing	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 284-300 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (Philip 4:9 ), Apply F. Disagree
Week 8 Incorporating	A. Biblical Counseling pp. 301-322 B. Five Questions For Your Counselee C. Complete Workbook Outline D. Strengths , Weaknesses , Plan To Change E. Memory (Eph 4:11 , 12 ; 1 Co 12:7 ), Apply F. Disagree

Proverbs 18:13 & 17
"He who answers a matter before he hears it,
it is folly and shame to him."
17 The first one to plead his cause seems right,
Until his neighbor comes and examines him.

Colossians 4:6
"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt,
that you may know how you ought to answer each one.."

Eph 4:15
". . . speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things
into Him who is the head--Christ,
16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together
by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share,
causes growth of the body for the edifying edifying edifying of itself in love."

2 Tim 2:23-26
"But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes,
knowing that they generate strife.
24 And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel
but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient,
25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition,
if God perhaps will grant them repentance,
so that they may know the truth,
26 and that they may come to their senses the snare of the devil,
having been taken captive by him to do his will."

A biblical, helping relationship consists of at least eight primary elements, which can be grouped under four larger categories. The goal is to help others become dependent on the Holy Spirit, and not on you! You should actually use all eight of these elements to a limited degree in each session. Then as further sessions unfold, you should progressively shift your emphasis from #1 to # 8. Each element is a building block in the Spirit-led process of guiding someone toward a new pattern of changed attitudes, actions, and affects (toward Christ's character - A.B.C.'s - Attitudes Behaviors Countenance).

I. HOPE = Confident expectation of what God has promised.
1. Involvement = Letting Jesus touch the counselee through you.
2. Inspiring = Letting Jesus' truth encourage the counselee.

II. GOD'S VIEW = Seeing the problems as God sees them.
3. Investigation = Letting Jesus' reveal the true problems.
4. Interpretation = Letting Jesus discern between Cause/Symptom/Temptation.

III. CHANGE = Being transformed into the image of Christ.
5. Instruction = Letting Jesus teach the counselee biblical solutions.
6. Inducement = Letting Jesus motivate the counselee.

IV. PRACTICE = Learning to march in submission to the Lord.
7. Implementation = Letting Jesus coach the counselee to maturity.
8. Incorporation = Letting Jesus use the counselee in a church.

Appendix 1 Memory Verses
Appendix 2 Reading Lists & Requirements
Appendix 3 Handouts, Articles, etc ....

Soulcare =
the personal ministry of God's Word, one to another.
Equipping a network of "discipleship counselors" in local churches. Applying God's Wisdom, not man's counsel, to the Church & Home.

Church to Church / Man to Man / Husband to Wife Woman to Woman / Parent to Child

The 5-Level model for training below is the process I developed and used while serving as director of a church based Biblical counseling and counselor training center for ten years. In 1998, after resigning to travel and speak full time, we were led to plant a new church, that would be eager to balance our Father's personal ministry of His Word (counseling) along with the public ministry of His Word (preaching). In addition, our conviction from Scripture was that a counseling ministry apart from the loving practice of church accountability and discipline is anemic at best and at worst impotent, when sin must be confronted for our Father's reputation. Jesus said that such accountability (Mat 18:15-20) is a necessary prerequisite for a true church.

Level 1 - Relationship of Counseling (BDC 101)
Level 2 - Principles of Counseling (BDC 201)
Level 3 - Observing real counseling sessions
Level 4 - Assisting the L.E.A.D. counselor
Level 5 - L.E.A.D. Counselor

A "Church" is not a Biblical church family until those believers are committed to one another so that they obey our Lord by practicing the essential, discipleship ingredients that -

© L.E.A.D. to Restoration & Maturity in Christ - soli deo gloria
(Gal 2:20; 4:19; 5:16-25; 6:1-3; 1 Ti 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-11)

- L oving (Mat 22:36-40; Joh 13:34-35; Rom 13:8-10; 1 Co 12-14; Gal 5:14; 1 Jo 3-4) Sacrificially
    - E quipping (Rom 1:12; Col 2:2; 1 Th 3:1-2; 5:14; 2 Ti 3:15-17) Teach, Convict, Correct, Train
        - A ccountability (2 Tim 2:1-4; Titus 2:3-5) Man to Man, Woman to Woman
            - D iscipline (Mat 18:15-20; 1 Co 5:9-13) One to One, Two or More, Church, Public

These are the ingredients of true discipleship, the personal ministry of the Word adapted to the unique needs of each individual and family (Col 4:6). This is the full scope of Biblical counseling - assisting one another toward maturity in Christ, the fruit of the Spirit, through disciplined discipleship. Our model emphasizes not only the biblical principles, but especially counseling the truth in humble love (Eph 4:14; 2 Tim 2:23-26; Col 4:6) . A gentle and sensitive Christ-like character and countenance during the counseling relationship is crucial to the message being received. Colossians 4:6 commands that we "season" the meat of the Word, uncompromisingly adapting it to each unique person and situation, so the counselee will be eager to swallow it. Think about it. Everyone needs essential proteins, but if you cook it up with Cajun spices and the person isn't used to it, then you very likely wasted your time and his.

If your church is interested in developing a similar "soulcare" ministry, Sid is available to come and present a "How To" seminar or week long condensed course for your leadership, congregation, and city. This training is not intended as a replacement for formal academic biblical studies. There are many excellent institutions offering academic degrees in Biblical Counseling, centered around a thorough knowledge of the biblical languages of Hebrew & Greek (such as the Master's College in California, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC, and Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth).

Our apprenticeship plan is simply structured around the practical, discipleship process of personal, hands-on mentoring. Our prayer is that this New Testament model of apprenticeship training will spread to many other local churches, in order to equip their members to minister God's Word, one to another. Too often, churches view the "pastor" as the only minister, instead of an equipper. It is the rank and file believers who are the true ministers. (Ephesians 4:11-15)

Additionally, the following steps for discipleship training bring God's sufficient counsel down to earth, producing a systematic, "practical" theology that should be lived out in the hearts, lives, and family relationships of God's people - soli deo gloria.

1. Biblical Authority - (The Canon of Scripture and God's "convincing proofs". Isa 41-48; Act 1:3)

2. Hermeneutics - (How to interpret God's Word as He delivered it: normally & simply. Mat 18:1)

3. Exegetical Exposition - (Drawing out God's principles in context, not injecting our own. 2 Ti 2:15)

4. Topical/Doctrinal Studies - (Seeing major subjects with God's viewpoint. Joh 5:39; 14:6)

5. Systematic Theology - (Fitting topics together into the Big Picture: His/story. 1 Co 15:27-28.)

6. Practical Theology - (Counseling - How to live God's image in relationships. Heb 5:12-14)

7. Glorifying Our Father - (and His Son, our Lord & Savior . . . to the World. Eph 3:10)

To accomplish this vital "ekklesia" responsibility, believers must all work hard to support one another. God's design is for elders to train each of the heads of household, who in turn will train/ disciple/ counsel their own wife and children personally and individually. The older women are to train the younger women, especially single mothers (Titus 2). Additionally, homes should be used for evangelistic and disciple-making hospitality for friends, neighbors, co-workers, and extended relatives. God's biblical design emphasizes intimate personal relationships, over even good things like activities, buildings, business, and entertainment. We must not let the "good" swallow up God's Biblical "best" (koinonia relationships with God and others, for God's glory).

The provision of Christ (His Cross, Spirit, Word, & Church Family) is sufficient to accomplish God's "best". Remember the key question: "What did God do before Freud?". The answer, "He did what He promised, He did it very well, and He still will!".

We live in an age in which pseudo-Christian cults misuse biblical terminology, and in which professed "Christian" politicians justify their unbiblical lifestyles by redefining the normal meaning of common words like "is". Even when a person claims to be a "biblical" counselor, that claim alone doesn't tell you what they actually believe or do in counseling. So it's necessary for organizations and counselors to define what they mean by the use of relevant terms and phrases.

Many counselors and organizations, like the AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors), once rejected the phrase "biblical counseling" to describe themselves, have now adopted that very phrase to market their newest version of counseling. Such a dramatic change begs a number of questions. What do they now mean by it? Has their counseling model significantly changed, now that they have changed its description? If their model and method has changed, then do they now believe that their previous model was "unbiblical"? Has their recent adoption of this phrase come about because of conviction through a systematic study of Scripture, or simply due to the fact that more and more people are asking for "biblical counseling" instead of "Christian" psychotherapy? These are vital questions everyone needs to ask, especially pastoral elders.

What makes a counselor truly "biblical"? A biblical counselor is committed to helping hurting souls and families for God's glory. The counselor believes in and practice the sufficiency of God's living Word, for the non-physical counseling problems and relationships of the soul (psyche). A biblical counselor values the role of physicians when it comes to proven, biological etiologies, but the physician's realm is medical science not counseling. Counseling is the process of prayerfully and sensitively listening to another person (Prov 18:13, 17), helping them discern real soul needs, and providing practical, biblical advice about changing their attitudes and behaviors in relationship to God and others (Mat 22:36-40). Thus counseling is inescapably a religious endeavor, focused around the progressive sanctification of the soul. A biblical counselor believes that God's Word both warns against and prohibits the integration of nonbiblical psycho-philosophies, whether they be Confucianism, Buddhism, Freudianism, or any other psychotherapeutic theory and therapy for the soul (Prov 30:5-6; 1 Cor 4:6; Col 2:8-10).

By "sufficiency", a truly biblical counselor means that God did not have to wait for the help of modern, unregenerate men like Freud, Maslow, Rogers, Bowen, et. al., to provide for the fulfillment of God's promise and command of maturity in Christ character and intimate relational oneness (Gal 5:22-25). The New Testament repeatedly proclaims that the full provision of Christ's cross, Spirit, Word, and church relationships are more than enough to produce the fruit of abundant life and godly families (Col 1:27-2:10; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Peter 1:3). Scripture clearly sets forth the local church family as God's chosen counseling context to L.E.A.D. others into restoration and maturity under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, through loving, equipping, accountability, and discipline.

How do biblical counselors handle specific counseling problems like marital conflict, bulimia, anxiety, parenting, communication, addiction, etc.? These are topics for later newsletters, and already are addressed in the thousands of resources (books, articles, and tapes) available in the biblical counseling community.

Be sure to see our more extensive internet articles on issues related to counseling:
http://www.soulcare.org (For example:)

Are You Balancing Holiness & Love?
The Painful Pursuit of Pleasure, That Enslaves, but Never Satisfies (Updated Nov. 18, 2000)
Are Psychotherapies Coherent Science? (Or religious philosophies, theologies.)
Medicine & Counseling: The Interface (Can biological factors stop the fruit of the Holy Spirit?)
Southern Medical Association (1998 Presentation - "When The Patient Asks Why Me?")
Classic Counsel (Practical advice from men like Jonathan Edwards, Baxter, Henry,...)
Should Christian Counselors Charge Fee$ ??
(Ministering and living by faith instead of selling the counsel of God)
Critique of an "Evangelical" Seminary Counseling Program
Christ In You: The Hope of Counseling (A Person, not a program)
A.B.C.'s For True J.O.Y. (Good News: profoundly simple, even for a child)

Some critics of counselor training programs reject the very term "counselor", due to its many secular, unbiblical connotations. We at SOULCARE, however, use the term just as we use other English titles that describe biblical ministries. Some examples are: "youth minister", "minister of education", "Sunday School teacher", "benevolence director", "coordinator", "administrator", etc. The term counselor does not describe a church office like elder or deacon. It simply refers to a person who is led by the Holy Spirit to use his unique combination of spiritual gifts, personally ministering the Word to help individuals and families overcome non-organic, relationship problems in a biblical manner. "Discipler", however, might be a better description of the role and responsibility, since biblical discipline is vital to the process.

Also, some have mistakenly assumed that any preplanned program for training biblical counselors is "of the world", or "of the flesh", implying that to be "Spirit-led" must always be extemporaneous or even chaotic. Yet Scripture clearly teaches that God's people, especially in the local New Testament church, are to systematically train one another to minister according to the gifts of God. Scripture's model begins with the teaching of elementary doctrine (Heb 6:1 ff), especially regarding progressive sanctification. It then moves quickly into an emphasis on progressive stages of apprenticeship (discipleship) involving real counseling opportunities with families in need of God's Spirit and Word. Jesus took the disciples along with Him and trained them by direct teaching, observation, culminating in trial and error practice. Likewise, Paul trained Timothy and Luke. Barnabas discipled Mark to serve in ministry, etc.

How is such "training" to be accomplished in God's church family?

There is great danger if an originally Spirit-led process becomes institutionalized into a organizational program led merely by human reason or feelings. This is especially true if the program adopts the terminology of a worldview such as humanistic psychotherapy. However, such potential does not warrant the avoidance of all training. We believe that Spirit-led ministerial training can and should be conducted in every local fellowship. The question which is vitally important for all of us is: "What is truly biblical, Spirit-led training (equipping) of the saints for ministry (Eph 4:11 ff)?" The following is a very brief outline that begins to biblically answer this vital question. Much more can and will be added as we study this question together. We need one another, for humble iron-sharpening, as we seek to discern His ways from Scripture.

Num 22; Exo 18 vs. Num 11 God's Spirit is the counselor. Men are merely the mouth-piece.
John 13-17; Eph 4:11-13 The Holy Spirit trains counselors directly and through church leaders. He is the coach (paracletos) call along side for disciplined training. Therefore a "biblical" counselor must be a born-again, and "Spirit-filled" person.

2 Tim 3:16-17 makes it clear that Scripture is sufficient as the textbook for all counselor training of the non-physical soul (psyche) toward maturity in Christ. In order to better ensure an accurate interpretation of Scripture, it's important to also study the writings of other born-again believers, both living and dead. Such iron sharpening in the Church enables us to learn biblical principles and their application from the experience and study of other believers.

2. Personal apprenticeship (family discipleship) is God's primary Way, not the modern academic model
(2 Tim 3:16-17).

For counselors to become effective as practical servants, their primary training needs to involve personal accountability in a local church family (L.E.A.D.). Large group classes can be helpful for learning Hebrew, Greek, history, etc. But the complete training of counselors must emphasize the observation and real-life practice of counseling under the intimate guidance of a more experienced counselor (paracletos - "one called alongside). The experienced counselor is able to highlight unchristlike fleshly habits of attitude and action in the student/disciple, and guide in the process of putting on the new man. This process of apprenticeship takes a great deal of time. There's no short-cut, no instant, fast-food method of feeding God's Word to others.

John Frame, Asst. Professor of Systematic Theo.. at Westminster provides some very helpful insight, in PROPOSAL FOR A NEW SEMINARY. "When a seminary puts its major effort into such things as recruiting Ph.D.s . . . , maintaining 'respectable' degree programs (presumably in comparison with Harvard or Yale), determining the number of 'semester hours' to be required of students, it is diverting its attention from its proper purpose. More important, such seminaries convey a false impression (to the churches, and to their students and to themselves!) as to how the 'knowledge of God' is attained. A man does not become qualified for the ministry simply by writing a number of 'good papers' and memorizing enough material to pass all his exams. To give the impression that he does, as the theological 'academies' do, is to encourage a false pride in learning, a knowledge that 'puffs up' (1 Cor 8:1), a gnosticism that in the past has led the Church far from the truth of God's Word."

Some Christian groups mistakenly reject even the use of musical instruments in worship, or cars for travel, in an effort to avoid the ways of the world. But Jesus said we are to be both wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Mat 10:16). For example, God's people have always used easy to memorize formulas and systematic summaries to teach doctrine and practice to one another Many examples are given in Scripture: Exo 20:3-17; Deut 6:4-7; Mat 22:36-40; John 13:34-35; Acts 15:23-29; Heb 6 & 10. Such methods are also used by the world, but are not wrong in and of themselves. They are mere tools.

Prayerfully and carefully developed manuals and teaching tapes for counselor training can be useful, Spirit-led tools so long as they merely serve to explain and apply God's Word. Remember, the Holy Spirit is more than capable to lead Christians in the planning of counselor training programs. Beware of the error of assuming that only spontaneous activities are Spirit lead. God is not a God of chaos, but of order.

A Few Logistics for the Counseling Relationship
Spirit-led & Practical [Time & Place, Etc.]

WHO should meet: As few as possible is the general principle (Mat 18:15-17).
Only one counselor if it involves the first step in confrontation over sin.
A counselor & one assistant is best for situations that do not mandate one to one.
[Luk. 10:1 By twos; 2 Cor 13:1 Mouth of two or more witnesses].
Gender Specific (Avoid a male counselor with a female Counselee, or vice versa). And rank and role must be honored in order to honor God (wives should not "counsel" husbands, 1 Pet 3).

HOW should you meet: Discipleship counseling is not a social call. It's an accountability time. Each Counselee must bring a bible, pen, & notepad. "Hi, how are you?", should mean "Are you walking in the Spirit?". (i.e. lovingly be prepared to hold one another accountable to change and growth)

WHERE should you meet: A quiet, private, pleasant place. A table is helpful so you can use the Bible, paper & pen, etc. The home/family atmosphere, or a park, or coffee shop is better than the clinical feeling, "counseling office".

WHEN & for HOW LONG should you meet: Set a specific time. Do not just say, "Call me", or "Come over whenever...." Pick a time that avoids distractions, like ("I have to pick up the kids in 10 minutes"). Avoid fatigue (i.e., not after you or the Counselee just worked a 12 hr shift).

Time frame for each session? - Beware of the secular one hour/week myth, designed to make more money. You must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and the true needs of the Counselee.
A single session may last 10 minutes to many hours. And, you may be led to meet weekly, twice a week, or every two weeks.

Time frame for the entire counseling relationship? - Beware of fostering dependence like secular counselors. Your goal should be to train the Counselee to take Scripture and solve problems independent of you. What should you do before, during, after, between each session?
What if you as a counselor sin by either being too confrontational, or too timid?

Week One
PART I - HOPE
Confident expectation of what God has promised, knowing He cannot lie.

1. HOPE by INVOLVEMENT:
Letting Jesus touch the Counselee through you.
(paracletos, coach, trainer ..........)

Biblical Involvement is Person-oriented vs Problem-oriented (i.e., Centered on Christ's commands of love). The emphasis is on agape relationships of personal accountability, not simply on rules and rituals. [Matt 22:36-40]

- God is the only person who is worthy to be called counselor. To be an effective counselor, He must be the One guiding our thoughts, words, and actions.

- The process of biblical counseling is profoundly simple, yet not simplistic (L.E.A.D.):
* Personal Accountability in Evangelism - for the unsaved
* Personal Accountability in Discipleship - for the saved

- The goal is the character of Christ; the fruit of the Spirit (Rom 8:29; Gal 5:16-25).

** Our impact and influence in people's lives is related to their perception of Christ in us.
- The natural, flesh reaction to hurting people is either:
"I don't want to get involved" or "I must take control of their life and fix it"

- The biblical way is to submit to (get in line under) the Holy Spirit's authority.
[Gal 2:20; Joh 15:5, 26; 16:13; 17:17; Eph 5:18; Gal 5:16-25; Col 3:16; Mat 20:20 ff]

** Prayer without ceasing is therefore essential (1 Thess 5:17).
"So He [Jesus] Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed." Luke 5:16 (NKJV)

READ 1 Kings 3:5-14.
What does this passage reveal about the proper heart motive of a Spirit-filled counselor

A. INVOLVEMENT THROUGH COMPASSION: Sincerely Caring
1. Two Impressive Examples of Compassion
a. Jesus (Isa 9:6; 11:2; Mat 9:35-38; Luke 7:11-15; 19:41
b. Paul (Acts 20:31 admonish, Greek = noutheteo, Note: Natl. Assoc. of Nouthetic Counselors)
(2 Cor 2:4; 6:11; 11:28-29; 1 Thes 2:7-8)

2. How to Develop Genuine Compassion. (Rom 5:5) Submit to the Holy Spirit's love for the Counselee!

a. Prayerfully think about how you would feel in the Counselee's position.
(Principle of "KNOWING" biblically (1 Cor 13:12).
[Mat 9:36 "seeing"; Luke 7:13 "saw her"; Heb 4:15 "sympathize"]
b. Think of the Counselee as a family member.
[1 Tim 5:1-2 "older as father...younger as brother...women as mothers"]
c. Think about your own sinfulness. [John 8:1-11; Gal 6:1]
d. Think about practical ways to show compassion.

Note Dr. Mack's questions for self-confrontation (pp. 179, Biblical Counseling).

_______________________________________________________________

B. INVOLVEMENT THROUGH RESPECT: Honor one Another

1. How to Show Respect to a Counselee.
a. Spirit-controlled Heart to Heart communication is essential.
(Especially countenance 1 John 3:16-18!)
Scripture's term for "HEART" refers more to the rational WILL, not Feelings.
Please consider replacing the acrostic S.O.L.V.E.R. found Dr. Mack's book (p. 181), with T.O. F.R.E.E. © (touch, open, face, rest, eyes, example) used here at the SOULCARE. SOLVER is from an unnecessary secular source, thus inadvertently encouraging the study of that secular author's theories for progressive sanctification of the soul. [Be creative and think of your own acrostics if it will help you remember and apply the same biblical principles regarding countenance.]

1) FAITH FOUNDATION: Surrender your will to His (Mat 11:28-30).
* FILLED with the Spirit, not Self (John 3:5-16; 7:37-39; Eph 4:29-30; 5:17-18; Gal 5:16-25)

2) LISTEN TO THE HEART: Don't assume; understand. Prov 18:13, 17
1. TIME: Quantity & Quality. (Deut 24:5) Proves love.
2. ACTION: (1 Joh 3:18) Serve, Countenance - "T.O. F.R.E.E. © "
Don't "touch", hug, pat, etc., counselees of the opposite gender, even if your spouse is there.
A hand shake is sufficient then. Remember, the "holy kiss" greeting was for two men, just like the middle eastern men do today. So don't do that with the opposite gender!
3. VOICE: Praise [Tone, rate, volume] [mirror, ques, sum]
4. GOAL: Don't assume, sum what you hear until you are told that you understand, by the speaker. (even though you may not agree about the issue itself)

If you do this well:
What will your actions be telling the person about your attitude?
__________________________________________________________________

Will the person's heart be more open to hear your response? Why?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

b. Take the Counselee's problems seriously.
No silly jesting, or apparent lack of concern (Eph 5:4).
c. Trust your counselees, yet do not believe everything you hear (Prov 18:17).
d. Express confidence in the Counselee. (Philip 4:13, confidence in Christ within him, Col 1:27)
e. Welcome the Counselee's input. (Isa 1:18 Come let us reason together)
f. Maintain confidentiality (Qualified by Mat 18:15-17)

1. Be Honest About Your Qualifications.
John 3:30, draw all esteem to Jesus, not self)
2. Be Honest About Your Own Weaknesses. (2 Cor 12:9)
3. Be Honest About Your Goals and Agenda. (Gal 4:19)
4. Be Honest About Your Limitations As A Counselor (John 15:5)

** Why such openness? Why is this better than the closed, distant, aloof, attitudes and actions of the world's model of "counselor"?

- Mutual openness is encouraged by God in Scripture, which facilitates real understanding.

1. Acts 17 - Paul sought to genuinely identify with and agree with as much as he possibly could.
Why must the order of involvement be:

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions you can ask the counselee, about specific bible passages, which will show your desire to be involved in his effort to grow.

Example - Use the story of the "Good Samaritan", or Acts 20 where Paul says he ministered to the believers "night and day with tears" and then ask, "What does this passage say about a truly biblical counselor?".

D. Application of Principles: List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to involvement. Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - John 16:13 a; 17:17 and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11): If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

How to Let God's Word be the Counselor:
By Using Creative Scripture Questions
� 2001 Sid Galloway

Most of our 101 students start out having difficulty with one of the most important homework questions.
It's the homework item that asks the student to:

1. Pick one or more passages of Scripture that clearly present the principle taught in that week's lesson.
2. Then make up questions that a counselor could ask a counselee, about each Scripture passage, so that the counselee's own answers will teach himself the principle.

Obviously, this homework question does not imply that all of a counseling "session" should be direct reading and discussing of Scripture. That would seem impersonal and even "cult-like" to many counselees. In a truly biblical, Christ-centered, Spirit-led counseling relationship, the communication must also involve a lot of prayerful and careful listening (Pro 18:13), as well as plenty of small talk and personal sharing to help the counselee feel loved and appreciated like a friend or even a family member.

However, nothing is more important in "biblical" counseling, than God's Word. So, this homework project is important because it helps the student counselor develop the habit of going to Scripture directly, instead of just using his own ideas as his primary source of knowledge. It's hard to learn this habit, since it's not the natural way we communicate with one another. We naturally just share our opinions and feelings. Normally, we don't first stop and think of what the Bible says about a subject, and then focus in on God's counsel right there in His Word. That takes extra time, makes the conversation a little choppy, and initially feels a bit awkward, until things start to flow. This biblical way of counseling is also hard because it obviously requires that the student counselor study and know the Bible well enough to find relevant passages. Don't give up, just keep studying and learning and you'll get better at it. A "Concordance" or a "Topical Bible" are very helpful not only for the counselor to study on his own, but even to bring to a counseling session and use right there with the counselee. Don't let pride make you try and pretend you know everything. Remember, folks, God's the one who should get the glory, not us. And finally, using Scripture this way means you must practice and practice coming up with simple questions to ask the counselee about various passages.

We all naturally have difficulty with this "unnatural", yet biblical, method of communicating. So here are some examples of how to do it, taken from my family's devotional times as we study through our 101 workbook.

Examples of Homework Item B - Lesson One: HOPE through Involvement.
Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions you can ask the counselee, about specific Bible passages, which will show
your desire to be involved in his effort to grow.
(Remember that many counselees have been to lots of previous counselors, who were there only as a profession, for a fee, not for love. You want to help the counselee have hope knowing that you will be involved God's Way! The counselee needs to know that you, yes even you, can actually help him, because of God's presence and promise to work through you and in spite of you. Of course, if the counselee already comes to you strongly believing that you care and that God will use you, then you won't need to spend much or any time on this dimension building HOPE through INVOLVEMENT.)

- First you should begin all counseling sessions with prayer and be sure to include something like:
"Heavenly Father, I recognize that you are the only one worthy to be called counselor or teacher, so I humbly submit myself under your hand of authority. Father, I am grateful that just as you used a donkey to speak to Balaam, you can use me to help my friend."

- Philippians 4:13 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"Based on this verse, when I'm here to help you, will it be me alone helping?" (The Answer = Nope)
"Who will also be here to overcome my limitations?" (Answer = Christ will)

- Romans 15:4 & 14 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"According to these verses, where does a biblical counselor get his knowledge?" (Answer = The Bible)
"What do these verses say that the Bible's counsel will give to you?" (Answer = Patience, comfort, hope)
"Does biblical counseling focus on condemning people or building them up?" (Answer = Building up)
"Even though I'm just a fumbling, stumbling fool for Christ, what does v. 14 say about me helping you?"
(Answer = Average believers are able to admonish, noutheteo = counsel, one another.)

Examples of Homework Item B - Lesson Two: HOPE through Inspiring.
Five questions you can ask the counselee, about specific bible passages, which will inspire hope toward his effort to grow. (Note that this second lesson's questions should emphasize the dimension of "inspiring" or encouraging the counseling, so that he believes that he can change God's Way. The focus needs to be on God and His power, love, & wisdom.)

- 2 Tim 3:16-17 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"Based on this passage, will our use of Scripture together be able to help you?" (Answer = Yes!)
"How much will God's Word be able to help you as we study it together?" (Answer = Completely!)

- 1 Corinthians 10:13 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"According to this verse, how will God help you with your trials and struggles?"

- Philip 1:6 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"Is your problem too big for God?"
"Who is the One who will see to it that you grow and mature?"

- Jeremiah 32:17-19 Have the counselee read this verse aloud and then ask him:
"What does v. 17 say about God's power?"
"What does v. 18 say about His character and care for you?"
"Is there any problem too difficult for God?"
"What does v. 19 say about God's awareness of your struggles?"
"Based on v. 20, has God provided any evidence that can prove to you that His promises are true and trustworthy?" "What kind of evidence?" (Answer = 100's of prophetic proofs, millions of testimonies, etc....)

- Other passages you could use for inspirational questions:
(Josh 1:9; Psa 31:24; 1 Cor 15:58; 2 Cor 4:8-10; Gal 6:9; Heb 12:5-6, & many more)

Week Two
2. HOPE by INSPIRING:
Letting Jesus' truth encourage the Counselee.

Memory Verses for Week 2:

1. Hope produces...joy, perseverance, confidence, effective ministry, faith & love, consistency, energy, stability, intimacy, purity. [Prov 10:28; Rom 5:2-3; 12:12; 1 The 4:13; Rom 8:24-25; 2 Cor 3:12; Phil 1:20; 2 Cor 4:8-18; Col 1:4-5; 1 Thes 1:3; 1 Tim 4:10; Heb 6:19]

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (NKJV)

What if your spouse or parent has hurt your feelings?
Should you say anything? What should you say?

WRONG WAY = "You made me say _____, or do ______".
(This is a self-deception because Scripture says people and circumstances can only tempt us to choose ungodly actions Eph 6:4 . Yes, they can hurt us or entice us, but they cannot force us to react with the fruit of the flesh, Gal 5:16 ff).

RIGHT WAY = "Would you help me with something, please. I don't understand exactly why, but I feel (hurt, or rejected, or insecure, or angry). I know I could be wrong about it, and it might just be my own immaturity, so please pray with me and then I'd really appreciate it if we could talk about it in the light of Scripture. Please help me see this from God's viewpoint."

What if someone criticizes you?
"Thank you for caring about me and trying to help me. I know I need to grow and change a lot, so I wouldn't be surprised if you are correct. And I promise you that I'll really take this to heart and pray about it. Would you explain to me more about your concerns. Also, please pray with me about another area of my life that I'm trying to improve. I'm trying to work on my character, you know, my A.B.C.'s (attitudes, behaviors, and countenance). I really want my character to be more like Christ, so that I don't dishonor Him as a Christian."

4) CARE-FRONTING: Private to Public [Matt 18:15-17; 1 Co 5:11; 6:1; 7:11]
"May I share something with you? I realize that I could be wrong about this, yet after praying about it and studying God's Word, I am concerned about something. And please understand that my concern is there because I really care about you and your relationship with our Father."

5) FAMILY CONFERENCE:

B. CONTRASTING TRUE & FALSE HOPE.
1. Characteristics of False Hope.(Prov 10:28; 11:7)
a. False hope is based on human ideas of what is pleasurable or desirable.
(John 16:33; Jam 1:2-4) * Luke 6:35 Should give love, not sell it!
b. False hope is based on a denial of reality.
("I know my husband will change one day soon")
c. False hope is based on mystical or magical thinking. (Jam 1:25; 4:13-17)
d. False hope is based on an unbiblical view of prayer.
(Quarterback error - 1 Tim 4:7 b; 2 The 3:10; 1 Joh 5:14-15)
e. False hope is based on an improper interpretation of Scripture.
(Need Systematic exegesis - not eisegesis)

2. Characteristics of True Hope.
a. True hope is a biblically based expectation of good.
(Rom 4:18; 1 Pet 1:4)
b. True hope is the result of true salvation.
(1 Pet 1:3; Col 1:25-27)
c. True hope is holistic in focus (sees the big picture)
(God's whole plan - Eph 1:6, 12, 14; 3:10 - To glorify Himself)
d. True hope is realistic. (Rom 8:28-29)
e. True hope must be renewed daily. (2 Cor 4:16)
f. True hope is inseparable from diligent & accurate Scripture study.
(Psa 130:5; Rom 10:17; 1 Cor 13:13)
g. True hope is a matter of the will (choice).
(Not will-power, but the will submitted - 1 Pet 1:13)
h. True hope is based on knowledge. (Rom 5:2-3)

C. HOW TO INSPIRE HOPE USING ENCOURAGEMENT
1. Help People to Grow in Their Relationship with Christ.
1 Tim 1:1, Intimacy with Christ who is our hope - Dan 11:32; 1 John 4:18
There is no hope for a person who is not saved (John 17:3)

2. Teach People to Think Biblically. (Isa 1:18; Rom 12:1-2; 1 Co 10:13; Philip 4:4-13; Heb 4:12)
a. About the Specific Situation. (Break the problem down into basic, specific biblical components: such as trust, bitterness, guilt, fear, depression, ignorance, etc.) Remember the biblical terms for heart mean willful reason more than feelings.
b. About God's Character. (2 Tim 1:7 - Power, love, and wisdom - each is crucial for trust).
c. About the Possibilities for good. (Jam 1:2-4)
d. About the divine resources. (Phil 4:13)
e. About the nature and cause of the problem. (Discern symptom vs. cause vs. temptation Gal 5:16-24) It is bad news if the cause is sickness.
f. About what they say. (Even what they say to themselves in their mind. Words reveal beliefs of the heart - Mat 15 - "I can't...He makes me angry...nobody cares...".)

3. Provide Godly Examples for Counselees. (Praise a lot for simply seeking counsel!)
a. Our own example of hope (testimony of God's faithfulness - 1 Cor 10:13)
b. The example of hope in others. (Rom 15:4 - Removes the "what ifs")

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions you can ask the counselee, about specific bible passages, which will inspire hope toward his effort to grow.

Example - Turn to Philippians 1:6, have the counselee read it and then ask him, "Who does this verse promise will see to it that you as a Christian continue to grow toward maturity?

D. Application of Principles:
List your two greatest strengths weaknesses relative to inspiring hope.
Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses:
Memorize - 1 Peter 1:13-15 and write down these new verses from memory.
Describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11)
If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Caution: Don't Become An Interrogator! Show love & encouragement with smiles, etc..
[a sinful use of the gift of exhortation is often the cause of conflict]
So dig for gold (character qualities, gifts & abilities), more than dirt (sin patterns).

Memory Verses for Week 3:

Does Scripture teach this investigative process?
The answer is a qualified yes. While the Word of God does teach the importance of investigating a situation before giving counsel, it does NOT support the kind of digging found in most modern models of counseling. A significant distinction must be made between the biblical way of investigating and the way of most psychotherapies.

The biblical way of investigation is focused upon a central goal of understanding the person's need for change in his relationship to God and then others - in the present. All other concerns are secondary to this goal. The Counselee's past is important, but not a causative excuse for failing to actively love God and neighbor as Jesus commanded. [See pp. 220-222 in BIBLICAL COUNSELING, esp footnote 17 re: Steve Viars article in the Biblical Counselor July 1993: 1-4, "Handling the Past Biblically"]
Note also that Jesus, God incarnate, did not need to investigate as we do. He already knew men's hearts (Matt 9:4 "But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, 'Why do you think evil in your hearts?'")

What is the source of the fruit (feelings, words, actions, etc.) of one's character?
Are circumstances the root causes of the fruit or simply temptations?
What are the only two kinds of fruit a person produces?
In modern terms, what is the root that Scripture calls the "flesh"? (H. Self)
Should a counselor tell a Counselee what is the root in his heart? Why? (1 Sam 16:7; Mat 7:1-5)

* Biblical investigation for accurate understanding is directly commanded:
Deut 24:5 ** Husbands are to carefully study, and learn the needs of their wives.
Proverbs 18:2 A fool has no delight in understanding, but in expressing his own heart. (NKJV)
Proverbs 18:13 He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him. (NKJV)
Proverbs 18:17 The first one to plead his cause seems right, until his neighbor comes and examines him. (NKJV)
Proverbs 22:6 ** A parent is to train up a child according to his unique needs.
Col 4:6 We are to know how to respond to "each one", not a rubber stamp method.
James 1:19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; (NKJV)

1 Samuel 1:9-18 Eli the priest fails to investigate and assumes Hannah's problem is drunkenness.
Job Job's counselors never asked questions. They assumed and misunderstood Job's problem. Thus their counsel to him was inaccurate, useless, and actually made things worse for Job, and failed to glorify God.
Epistles: In many of the epistles, the author was writing to give counsel regarding problems, as a counselor/teacher after having investigated and gathered factual information. This is clearly evident in the epistles to the Corinthians. Paul was in essence engaged in an ongoing counseling relationship with the Corinthians as a family, involving many separate sessions (in person & mail).
1 Corinthians 1:6 even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, (NKJV)
1 Corinthians 1:11 For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe's household, that there are contentions among you.
1 Corinthians 5:1-2 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and such sexual immorality as is not even named among the Gentiles -- that a man has his father's wife! And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done this deed might be taken away from among you. (NKJV)
1 Corinthians 5:9 I wrote to you in my epistle not to keep company with sexually immoral people.
1 Corinthians 7:1 Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: . . . [Emphasis added]

*** [See also Paul's use of background investigation in his counsel to Timothy, 2 Tim 1:5; 3:14, which enabled him to better encourage and exhort Timothy]

1. Physical Data [It is always good to recommend a complete physical]
a. Sleep. (Psa 4:8) (Could be physical etiology such as an adrenal tumor, etc.)
b. Diet. (Pro 25:16)
c. Exercise. (1 Tim 4:8)
d. Illness. (Pro 3:8; 1 Tim 5:23)
e. Medication. (Jam 5:14)
2. Resources. (Used by God to aid in the process)
a. Spiritual ones. (Saved? Unsaved? Church?)
b. Intellectual. (Mentally challenged? Very high IQ.?)
c. Educational. (Able to read? etc...)
d. Social. (Family members, church, job, neighbors...)
3. Emotions. (Warning signals) Attitude must be submitted for affect to change.
4. Actions. (What they do and fail to do) (Jam 1:25; 2:18; Gen 4: Luk 6:46-49; 11:28)
5. Concepts [HEART attitudes, beliefs]. (Mat 15; Jer 17:9; Eph 4:22-24)
6. Historical Data (Circumstances tempt & create pressure, but do not causes).(Joshua, Judges)

B. HOW TO GATHER DATA
1. Using Personal Data Inventory Form, or the Personal History - PEF
a. Indicates a counselor's concern for thoroughness and accurate understanding.
b. Provides constant access to basic info.
c. Helps prepare the counselor for sessions.
d. Helps the Counselee think about issues to discuss.
e. Provides a natural entry point into the first session.
2. Asking the Appropriate Questions. (Avoid unnecessarily provoking defensiveness)
a. Appropriate questions are Spirit-led, therefore thoughtful and gracious.
b. They are relevant. Don't just seek to satisfy your curiosity! (verbal voyeurism is a sin)
c. They produce facts. ("What" or "How")
("Why" questions must be qualified: see handout)
Open: What are your thoughts about marriage?
Closed: Do you want to get married?
(OK if you're merely seeking a commitment)

WRITE: One example of an appropriate question from each of six categories
(see p.225-228 of B.C., by Drs. MacArthur and Mack, for help).

1. Physical ______________________________________________________
2. Resources ______________________________________________________
3. Emotions ______________________________________________________
4. Actions ______________________________________________________
5. Concepts ______________________________________________________
6. Historical ______________________________________________________

C. OBSERVING HALO DATA (Peripheral or indirect info)
1. Nonverbal Behavior (countenance). (Gen 4:6-7)
2. Paralinguistic Communication (How they say it) - Tone, rate, volume.
(Pro 15:1; 27:15; 2 Tim 2:23-26) Does he avoid any subjects, or change the subject when a particular issue is raised?

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions about specific bible passages, that would serve to sensitively gain an accurate perspective of the Counselee's situation.

C. Workbook Outline: Fill in all blanks and answer all questions.

D. Application of Principles:
List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to investigation.
Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - Prov 18:13 & 17 and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11)
If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Week Four
4. UNDERSTANDING by INTERPRETATION:
Letting Jesus discern between causes/symptoms/temptations.

Memory Verses for Week 4:

1. Principles through which to filter the data:
2. Accurately analyzing the data
(Understanding cause/effect from God's perspective)
3. Explaining cause vs. effect to the Counselee.

People          Gen 1:1-Rev 22:21 How do relationships affect each person in the family?
Purpose        Rom 8:28-29 What goal is each person seeking as top priority?
Problem        Rom 1-4; Gal 5:16-21 What are the symptoms, causes, temptations?
Plan              Rom 5-8; Gal 5:22-25 What is God's solution to overcome the problem?
Practice        2 Tim 2:1-4; Titus 2:4 God's way to L.E.A.D. toward maturity in Christ!

B. THE PROCESS OF INTERPRETING DATA
(5 Steps requiring time & effort) 1.Pray 2. Gather 3. Interpret 4. Formulate 5. Test

Your goal is to help this person use God's Word to discern the root causes of his problems.

1. PRAY before, during, & after each session!
2. GATHER Adequate and Accurate Data
3. INTERPRET the Data prayerfully and carefully. Don't assume!
a. What biblical category best describes the Counselee?
1) Is this person saved or unsaved? Discern the potential need for gospel.
Especially false hope based on personal "good works"!
Learn how to share the Good News, in a balance way. Don't push decisions, that aren't real.
(See the Soulcare gospel tract. Also - Legend, Liar, Lunatic, Lord)
The following tools can help you and the counselee distinguish between symptom, cause, and temptation: Problems are caused by either ignorance or rebellion or both.

a) Unruly = self-willed should be admonished (noutheteo)
b) Fainthearted = small-souled should be encouraged (not necessarily sin)
c) Weak = usually physically limited should be supported (Mat 6:24)
b. What biblical categories best describe the problems this person is experiencing? ** p. 238 (Terms represent concepts which shape beliefs!)
c. What insights does the Bible provide about the direct (heart) causes?
1) Conflict (James 4:1-2) selfish motives
2) Instability (Doubt, Double-minded James 1:8)
3) Lying (Gen 18:1-15) caused by fear
4) Confusion (James 3:16) disorder due to selfish ambition (one possibility)
5) Fear (1 John 4:18) due to a lack of mature love.
6) Insecurity (Prov 28:1) often due to guilt over sin
7) Bizarre Behavior (1 Sam 21:10-15) faked until habitual.
(Dan 4:28-33; Neb. became a lunatic due to pride.)
8) Worry or Anxiety (Luke 10:38-42) Martha vs. Mary
9) Judgmentalism (3 John 9-10) Diotrephes loved to be first
d. What does the data suggest about the relationship of the various problems to each other?
1) Which comes first? Cause or effect? (Ex: Sleep and Anxiety)
2) Any patterns running through a particular case? (Bitterness, self-pity, fear, etc.?)
e. What hindrances to biblical change exist in the Counselee's life?
1) Does he have a biblical understanding of the process of change?
Does he expect God to "zap" problems away in prayer?

Write down three questions to ask yourself to discern hindrances in the counselee's growth:

1. Example: Who does the counselee see as the person or people creating the most stress? Who does he see as capable of helping the most? Are they looking to God or to you, or to their spouse as the savior?
2.
3.

f. What does the data indicate about the person's expectations and desires for the counseling process? Beware of the "professional Counselee", and the "Counselee from Hades". (Pearls before swine?)
g. What does the data indicate about any possible organic or physiological factors? Any objective proof? When in doubt, refer to a Christian physician for a physical exam.
h. What does the data indicate about the person's motive for wanting to change? Goal? To please and glorify self or God? (happiness vs holiness).
i. Have I ever experienced a similar situation or similar problem?
j. Have I counseled someone previously with similar problems? who is he worshiping, trusting, seeking to please/glorify/exalt?

4. FORMULATE a Working Interpretation. (Tentative, untested conclusions) (See the footnote below re: science)

a. Determine Possible Reasons for the Problem.
b. Consider the Counselee's HEART: **IDOLS OF THE HEART (Ezek 13 & 14) (1 Cor 10:6-7 CRAVE)
Self-worship, Co-idolatry. ** HEART ATTITUDE IS THE KEY =

5. TEST the Validity of Your Interpretation! (Final step of interp)
a. Review mental & written notes prayerfully.
b. Consider other possible ways of interpreting data.
c. Solicit additional information (ask counselees to keep journals).
d. Confidentially seek multitude of counselors for iron sharpening.
e. Sensitively explain interp. to him & seek feedback from Counselee.

** If your interpretation fails the test, you have merely narrowed the possibilities and are closer to the right conclusion. If it passes the test, but the Counselee rejects it, lovingly instruct so he can learn to think biblically about it.
CONCLUSION: According to Dr. Mack, pp 248-249, interpreting Counselee data is both a science & an art. (However, he does not mean empirical science that is verifiable through experimentation)

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

A. (Optional): pp. 231-249 in the textbook, BIBLICAL COUNSELING.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions about specific bible passages, that would help you accurately interpret the counselee's situation. Remember, you are trying to help him deal with issues of the heart, not just external behavior.

C. Workbook Outline: Fill in all blanks and answer all questions.

D. Application of Principles:
List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to interpretation.
Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - Hebrews 4:12, and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11) If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Week Five
PART III - CHANGE
Being transformed into the image & character of Christ.

** Two Mistaken ideas:
1. Counseling is all instruction. (plus picking at every tiny imperfection)
2. It involves little or no instruction (just listening so they feel good only)

A. THE NATURE OF COUNSELING INSTRUCTION - Soul Care

Especially teach the person how to use the Bible personally to solve future problems!
(John 17:3 to "know" Him)
1. Instruction Should be Biblically Derived:
a. The Bible is Practical (Ps 119:105) lamp to our feet (How to live)
Philip 2:12-13 Walk.
b. Comprehensive, though not exhaustive. (2 Pet 1:3 all we need for life and godliness)

** What is your "epistemology" (source of truth for the soul & its relationships with God and people)? What is the counselee's? What did God do before Freud? He did what He promised and He did it very well, and He still will for anyone who will submissively trust and obey.
Psychotherapeutic theories and techniques are both unnecessary and dangerous.
(See the Soulcare article: Are Psychotherapies Coherent Science?)

c. Trustworthy (Psa 19:9; 119:89, 128, 160)
1) The finiteness of man (Pro 3:5-8)
2) The fallenness of man (Jer 17:9)
d. The Bible is Adequate (Sufficient) (2 Tim 3:16-17) for all non-organic psyche problems.

2. Instruction Should Be Biblically Accurate (2 Tim 2:15)
- Requires time, hard work

b. Determine the meaning of a verse (passage) in immediate context.
- Prov 23:7 often misinterpreted out of context

c. Interpret every passage in harmony with the full context (Bible)
Whole of Scripture (analogia scriptura: Scripture interprets Scripture).

f. Emphasize both the positive and negative dimensions of change.
(put off/put on....replace and don't leave a vacuum)

e. Use instruction that is action-oriented, not just knowledge.(Practical Application)
- 1 Cor 8:1 knowledge puffs up, love edifies (wisdom).
VOF's (Victory Over Failure) worksheets......so can walk (march) practice the principles.
Discipleship (disciplined pattern of T.W.A., thoughts-words-actions)
3. Instruction Should Be Adapted to the unique needs of each counselee & the family.

a. The content of instruction should be appropriate.
1. Counselee's immediate concerns
2. Emotional conditions
3. Spiritual Maturity (milk vs. meat)
4. Receptivity to counsel (Wait on the Spirit to convict)
b. The method of instruction should fit the person and the true needs.
Some instruction in session; some as homework (Why?).
1. Lecture Sermon on the mount Mat 5-7
2. Observation Disciples watched Jesus The Gospels
3. Experience He sent them out Luke 10:17-20
4. Research Scripture study 2 Tim 2:15
5. Discussion Iron sharpening Prov 27:17
6. Questions Why? What motive? Gen 4:6-7
** Especially questions to be answered directly from Scripture!!
7. Reading Bible each year Ezr 7:10
8. Self Evaluation Nouthetic examination 1 Cor 13:5
9. Music Esp. old hymns Eph 5:17 ff
10. Self-Disclosure Personal testimonies Paul's epistles
11. Illustration Familiar understanding John 15:1-13
12. Role-playing Apprentice/discipleship The Gospels

B. BUILD PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE OF GOD'S LIBRARY (66 Bks)
1. Read through the Bible at least once yearly.
2. Memorize a list of the 66 books (frontwards & backwards).
3. Outline each of the 66 books.
4. Outline the major doctrines of the faith
5. Develop a bible reference notebook on progressive sanctification, including specific soul (psyche) issues - depression, anxiety, marriage, parenting, etc..
6. Produce a Personalized Chain-Referenced Bible
7. Utilize Training Resources: NANC, IABC, CCEF, BCF, SEBTS, SWBTS, ETC.

CONCLUSION: HUMILITY!!!. Be extremely hesitant to give instruction on biblical issues you have not studied. Be honest with the Counselee. Take a week to research.

(One prays, while the other talks; to witness that all is appropriate; allows a man to counsel a woman; two minds led by the Spirit can balance one another; doubles opportunity for personal testimony and practical examples, etc. . . . )

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions that focus on passages of Scripture, to instruct the counselee in needed principles for growth toward the fruit of the Spirit.

C. Workbook Outline: Fill in all blanks and answer all questions.

D. Application of Principles:

List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to instruction. Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - 1 Thess 2:7-8, and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11)

If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Beware, when you are arguing, you are trusting YOURSELF, instead of God to change the Counselee! (That will only incite and irritate, Heb 10:24-25)

1. Defining Inducement (Remember the A.B.C.'s. The heart attitude is the key to change).
(Motivating the Counselee to choose God's goal & way of change).
a. Help counselees to accept personal responsibility for desires, motivations, thoughts, attitudes, feelings, words, and actions. (Gen 4:6-7; Jonah 4)
b. Bring counselees to the realization that biblical change involves personal choice.
c. Promote a concern about heart sins as well as behavioral sins.
d. Persuade counselees to commit to put off the desires, thoughts, and actions that hinder biblical change and to replace them with ones that promote biblical change. (Consistent Action).

2. Defining Commitment (Six Factors) A-C-C-E-P-T (by Wayne Mack) (Romans 12:1-3)

A - Acknowledge personal responsibility for thoughts and actions.
C - Choose to look at circumstances in the past and present from a biblical point of view.
C - Commit to eliminate whatever hinders biblical change.
E - Exert energy toward the goal.
P - Persevere in obedience. (Heb 10:36)
T - Trust God for the strength and resources to change. (Philip 2:12-13)

*** Often helpful to have the Counselee write out his commitment as a tool for accountability.

1. Two Approaches To Motivation (yet the end result may "look" the same).
a. A man-centered approach (manipulating by appealing to the fleshly desires) Gen 3 vs Mat 4
b. A God-centered approach (appealing to the new man Eph 4:22-24;
Rom 11:36; Mat 6:33; 2 Cor 4:18; Col 3:1)

2. Paul's Method Of Motivation (Rom 6:1-14)
a. Paul motivated his readers through indicative statements about their position in Christ. (Philip 4:4-13 ......
b. Paul motivated through imperative commands to live out their position in Christ. (* and warnings of the consequences of rebellion ........

3. Divine Motivation for Moses (Exo 3-4)
** Lots of Prophecy Proofs to motivate! (Isaiah 41-48)

* God did not focus on fleshly control points (desires or pride),but rather promises. (3:8, 12, 17-18)
* Also by concrete and attainable goals (4:15-17)
* Also evidences of divine power (4:1-8)
* By redirecting his focus (4:10-12)
* By a description of God's character and plan (3:15-18)
* And he provided someone to help (Aaron (4:14-16)

4. Other Biblical Principles of Motivation
a. Share your perception (Gal 2:11-14; Col 2:9; 1 John 1:7).
b. Eliminate resistance with biblical info (Mat 18:18-20)
c. Remind him of who God is (Prov 8:13; Isa 6:1-8; Heb 11:24-26)
d. Remind him of who he is in Christ (Ps 90:3-6; 100:3; Isa 2:22; 40:12-17; Jer 10:23)
e. Talk about the love and grace of Christ (2 Cor 5:14; 8:7-9; 1 John 3:1-4: 4:9-11)
f. Expound on the greatness of our resources in Christ
(Rom 8:34; 2 Cor 9:8; 10:4-5; Eph 1:3; Phil 2:1)
g. Share the promises of God (Isa 41:10; Matt 6:33; 28:20; Heb 13:5-6; 2 Pet 1:3-4)
h. Confirm the consequences of obedience
(Psa 1:1-3; 37:5-6; Prov 3:5-6; Luke 11:28; John 13:17; Gal 6:7-8; Eph 6:1-3; 1 Tim 4:7; James 1:25)
i. Give specific instructions about what the Counselee should do and how.
(Mat 5:21-26; Philip 4:6-9)
j. Show the reasonableness of obedience (Isa 1:18; Rom 12:1)
k. Challenge and exhort counselees to obey (Rom 6:11-13,19,20; 1 Tim 5:21; 6:13, 14, 17)
l. Teach about God's benevolent desires and concerns for them (Psa 100:4-5, 136; Jer 29:11; Rom 8:28; Eph 2:4).
m. Highlight consequences (Prov 5:22-23; 6:32-33; 7:22-23; 13;15; 16:5, 18; 29:1; Gal 6:7-8).
n. Express astonishment at resistance (Isa 1:2-9; Gal 1:6; 3:1)
o. Recall the Counselee's previous interest in obedience
(2 Cor 9:1-2; Gal 3:1 ff; Phil 1:4-7; 2:12).
p. Show how God is affected by disobedience (Psa 66:18; Eph 4:30).
q. Express personal, loving concern for him (Philip 1:3-8; 2:17; 4:1; 1 Thes 2:8, 19; 3:1)
r. Liken inappropriate actions to those of unsaved people (Luke 6:27 ff; 1 Cor 5:1; Eph 4:17)
s. Give information about proper values and priorities (Prov 15:16-17).
t. Demonstrate how resistance may affect others (Prov 15:25, 27; 19:13; 27:11; 1 Cor 5:6-7)
u. Warn about the Father's discipline (Heb 12:4-14; 1 Cor 11:27-28)
v. Explain the Bible's teaching about church discipline (L.E.A.D.) (Mat 18:15-17; 2 Thes 3:10 ff; Titus 3:9-11; 1 Cor 5:1-13)
w. Call attention to that day when the Counselee will stand in the presence of God (Rom 13:11-14; 14:10, 12; Heb 9:26; 1 John 2:18; Mat 16:26)

1. Recognizing Resistance
(Overt: Rich young ruler, Mark 10:17-26)
(Covert: 2 sons in Mat 21:28-30)
a. Absenteeism (missing appointments, showing up late .......)
b. Failure to do homework ("I didn't have time." Ask how much TV they watched :-)
c. Distancing (Leave church, "You're mean", "You're judgmental"........)
d. Threats ("I'll kill myself", "I just don't think I can go on")
e. Intimidation ("I know that passage very well, I used to teach on it.")
f. Manipulation (offering big donations, flattery .........)
--- Remember my Mafia counselee !

*** When these symptoms are noticed, humbly point them out and ask for an explanation in light of the previous verbal commitments to change (ex. Gen 4:7).

2. Recognizing the Reasons for Resistance (Why)
a. An unregenerate heart
b. Repeated failure
c. Fear
d. Pride
e. Ignorance
f. Unbelief
g. Bitterness
h. Improper commitment

If the counselee merely needs support and information, then Love and Equipping is enough. But if he knows what to do and does not do it, then Accountability and Discipline are needed and commanded by the Lord. But remember, love covers a multitude of sins, so don't pick at every little sin issue. *** Mat 18:15-18; 1 Cor 5:9 ff (See the four booklets on Church Accountability, by Wayne Mack, Ken Sande of Peacemakers (www.hispeace.org), Jay Adams, & Wayne MacCraw.) ** Also see the related articles on the Soulcare website.

DESCRIBE one severe and one "moderate" situation in which church accountability/discipline should be exercised and explain why you believe so in each case.

WRITE DOWN: exactly what you would say to a person if you had to warn him/her about the potential of increasing church accountability or impending church discipline.

This covenant is designed to encourage you as you diligently study and apply the Lord's counsel from the Bible. Above all, we want you to know that we are committed to serve the Lord as your counselors, by letting Him rule over our thoughts, words, and actions. All discussions are confidential unless life threatening information or a serious restoration requirement (Mat 18:15-17) arises. If such a requirement develops, we will discuss the need with you first.

Whenever possible we will try to have two SOULCARE counselors present during each session, modeling the Lord who sent out the disciples two by two. This is to your benefit in that it serves to hold us accountable to one another. If at anytime you feel a counselor is not reflecting the character of Christ (facial expressions, tone of voice, choice of words, etc.), we encourage you to share your concern to that counselor first, and then if necessary to the director of SOULCARE.

The New Testament Greek term for soul is psyche. The term psychology means the "study of the soul". Counseling is not coherent science like chemistry or physics. It consists of religious beliefs and practices regarding the non-physical part of our being. The mind, will, and emotions cannot be scientifically studied under a microscope or in a test tube. Mankind is dependent on the Word (Scripture) of our Creator for wisdom about souls. Counseling focuses on our relationships with other souls (God & our neighbor). We do recommend that all counselees get a thorough physical exam from their own physician. We do not advise anyone to make any changes in their medications, without the guidance of their family physician.

No Fee: Our income is dependent on donations, so we do not demand a fee for counseling, but live by faith. We ask that you work hard to study, apply the Lord's principles, and donate responsibly as He leads you.

Your Bible. A humble, teachable attitude.
A 3-ring notebook with paper & pen. All handouts given by your counselor.
Your completed homework, which was assigned the previous session.
We agree to work together in this discipleship counseling relationship, for the honor of the LORD.

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions about specific bible passages, that would serve to motivate (induce) the Counselee to walk in the biblical principles that apply to his situation, for Christ's glory.

D. Application of Principles:
List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to inducement. Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - 2 Tim 2:24-26, and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11) If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Week Seven
PART IV - PRACTICE
Learning to march in submission to the Lordship of Christ.

7. PRACTICE by IMPLEMENTATION:
Letting Jesus coach (paracletos/train) toward maturity.

Why the term "coaching"? Jesus called the Holy Spirit in John 14:16-17, "another helper" (paracletos) just like Him. The term means "one called alongside". As a reflection of Jesus, we, in the power of the Holy Spirit are called to walk alongside counselees and coach them in the application of His Way. This is discipleship.

** Learning to let Christ rule over every thought, word, and action, through the Spirit's control.
Walking (marching) in the Spirit's Fullness by faithful submission to His authority!

1. Off With the Old (Burn the Bridges Acts 19:17-19)
a. Undesirable assoc. with certain people (1 Cor 15:33) (Prov 13:20; 20:19; 22:24-25; 23:20-21)
b. Avoid Places & Things (photos, letters from old boyfriend, etc.)

2. On With the New (Rom 13:14) "Disciple" means discipline (self-discipline or from others).
a. Involvement in a local church (Col 1:18-24) (M.A.N.- Mutual Accountability Network)
b. Godly Associations (2 Tim 2:2-22; Titus 2:4)
c. Meaningful devotions
d. Accountability !! (Heb 3:13-14; Rom 12:10, 16; 15:14; 1 Cor 12:25; Gal 5:13; 6:2; 1 Thes 4:18; 5:11 & 14)
e. Proper diet, rest, sleep and exercise. (1 Tim 4:8)
f. Service for others (Mat 25:40; Mat 20:28)
g. A wise use of time (Eph 5:16)

3. Prepare for Temptation (Maintainance & Emergency Plan) (Pro 22:3) (Look to the Master)
Prevention is better than recovery, restitution (i.e., cleaning up the mess)
a. A Prevention Plan
1) Recognize and acknowledge the temptation early in the process (1 Pet 5:9)
2) Quickly ask God for his help to resist (submit to Him)
3) Remove yourself from temptation if possible. If not, stand firm (Eph 6:10 ff)
Interdimensional, spiritual warfare (battle for the motive and the mind, then the body)
** See the online booklet regarding spiritual warfare at www.soulcare.org
4) Identify the unbiblical heart desire (self-love greater than love of God & neighbor).
5) Quote and meditate on applicable verses
6) Remind yourself of god's presence, power, and promises
7) Reflect on the purpose of Christ's death
8) Mentally and verbally make a commitment to do the godly thing
9) Get busy with mind-engaging, godly activity
10) Call a godly friend and ask for help (accountability)
11) Repeat key aspects of this plan until you are stronger
b. Recovery plan: (what to do with failure plan!)
1) Call unbiblical desires, thoughts, feelings, and actions as God calls them - SIN
2) Take full responsibility for the sin
3) Confess the sin both to God and to any others who were hurt
4) Ask God for help to overcome
5) Remind Yourself what Christ has done and is doing for you
6) Reflect on the resources available to believers in Christ (slow down & think)
7) Meditate on God's promises of forgiveness and deliverance from the power of sin.
8) Accurately evaluate the changes that have already occurred and the progress.
9) Learn from failure by briefly examining what you should and should not have done.
10) Make restitution where necessary.
11) Purpose to put the past behind in a biblical way and to resume efforts to change.

B. PUTTING BIBLICAL CHANGE INTO PRACTICE:
NEW, "Good" HABITS MUST BE PLANNED
1. Habits Are Learned Patterns (Ways of Living)
a. The ability to learn habits is a gift of God, not necessarily evil. Just as learning to ride a bike until you do it automatically, spiritual habits of submission to the Holy Spirit and His Word are also learned habits.
b. Ungodly habits can be unlearned (1 Cor 6:9-11; Philip 4:11)
2. Help Counselees Avoid Frustration and Discouragement by Emphasizing Progressive Sanctification (a process of growth,
not an instantaneous zap into holiness) Philip 1:6
a. Biblical learning is never just academic, but dependent on practical, daily responses. (Psa 119:71)
** Family Socialization is the process - becoming more like Father God. 2 Co 3:17-18
b. Homework example: For a Woman with an abusive husband.* Have her complete a plan of response and a daily journal evaluating efforts and growth. Have her take time in the morning to review the plan and pray, then review at noon how the morning efforts went and prepare for the afternoon. Then review at early evening the afternoon's efforts, etc. Finally review at bedtime the evening and the whole day, and prayerfully prepare for the next day.

C. PERSEVERING IN BIBLICAL CHANGE (Heb 10:36)] Endurance - 1 Peter 1-5
1. Time
2. Daily Practice (Growth vs. Atrophy)
3. A major cause of failure in counseling is lack of perseverance (1 Cor 15:31)
(recommend the classic book by, Thomas Boston, The Crook in the Lot.)
4. As significant change begins to occur in the Counselee's life, it is good to lengthen the period of time between counseling sessions (expanding to every two weeks, then eventually a final check up in 6 wks) ** Wean the person off of you, so he becomes independently dependent on Christ's provision (Cross, Spirit, Word, Church Family).
5. Final Session: Ask the Counselee to :
a. Review what has happened in their lives regarding the original problems
b. List the specific ways they have made progress.
c. Use the list to emphasize the importance of perseverance even after formal counseling
d. Warn of the "natural" danger to revert to old patterns of the flesh if do not persevere

CONCLUSION: These elements are means to an end.......
The End Goal is to promote biblical change as a life-style.
To foster the implementation and integration of biblical principles into the lives of people so that they will become consistently Christ centered and Christ-like in every area of life including: desires, thoughts, attitudes, feelings, and behavior.
Also roles: as a spouse, parent, employee, etc.
The goal is not primarily making people happy, fulfilled, or eliminating pain and distress.
The goal is to make people holy for the glory of God: reflecting Christ's image/character!

[If possible, you would benefit tremendously by viewing the video by Wayne Mack on the use of homework is excellent. Distributed by CCEF West]

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions about specific bible passages, that would help the Counselee to implement the applicable principles into a new pattern of practical living.

D. Application of Principles:
List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to implementation. Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - Philip 4:9, and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply this week's principles.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11) If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

Week Eight -
8. PRACTICE by INCORPORATION:
Letting Jesus coach toward full service in a local church family

Building a sense of Christ-esteem, usefulness and responsibility,
NOT self-esteem, or the demand for "rights".

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 1 Corinthians 12:7 (NKJV)

A. COUNSELING: AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE LOCAL CHURCH.
1. Must never be seen as a weekly hour of magic, or an independent ministry.
The local church is the instrument Christ ordained to help believers grow into His likeness
(Eph 4:11 ff; Col 1:28; Heb 13:7, 17)
2. The pastoral elders (1 Tim 2; Titus 1) involvement and leadership in counseling is essential.
Counseling is the responsibility of every believer (all ministers), & the church is the only arena.
Pastoral elders are the equippers of the ministers. They are NOT the ministers. (Eph 4:11 ff)

B. THE CHURCH - INCOMPLETE WITHOUT COUNSELING.
1. Counseling & the Pastor's Effectiveness. (Example: Pastor preaching about drunkenness, yet lack of personal heart to heart understanding of motives, temptations, etc. - can't give personal, practical help)
2. Counseling & Evangelism. Listen and ask questions, then present the gospel (seasoned).

C. THE CHURCH - ESSENTIAL TO COUNSELING.
1. Counseling is only one part of the local church. (** Note the "1 hour/week" format is not mandated).
2. Counselees need the help of all ministries (preaching, teaching, fellowship, worship, discipline, modeling).

D. DEVELOPING A SOUL CARE MINISTRY IN LOCAL CHURCH.
Wrong Way - Without the leaders modeling the same principles of progressive sanctification.
Right Way - Begins with leaders centering all ministries around progressive sanctification.

1. Leaders must be dedicated
(Personal lives of holiness & relationships of accountability) Rom 15:24.
2. Leaders must understand & observe progressive sanctification.
(Written statement emphasizing action, eyes on Jesus, but not morbid introspection)
3. Leaders must have a clear sense of direction. (No one that's not of same mind).
4. Leaders must be learners
(thirst for God's Word & aware of the noetic effect of sin).
5. Leaders should be trained within a biblical church ministry. (Mainly apprenticeship).
** De-emphasize the separate skill concept of the expert, professional, counselor!
The church should not sacrifice the needs of the members to meet the counseling needs of those outside the church. WHY? Because God's plan for change & growth is not based on a 1 hour per week visit. God's plan is based on intimate, daily relationships within the family of God, the Body of Christ.

DESCRIBE ways in which the various ministries of a local church could more effectively incorporate counselees into active service.

The exaltation of "expert professionals" is a dangerous mistake, when it comes to counseling (2 Tim 4:1-5).

A. COUNSELING: A FUNCTION OF FELLOWSHIP. (EPH. 4:15-16).
1. Gal 6:1-6 (Three steps: pick 'em up, hold 'em up, build 'em up).
2. * All members are responsible to some extent to counsel others.
Thus they must be gifted to do so to varying degrees and in different ways
(exhorter, mercy shower, teacher.....).

B. EQUIPPED WITH SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
1. Purpose of the gifts is to edify the body - "to the common good" (1 Cor 12:5-7).
2. Every believer has at least one gift, that is uniquely adapted by the Holy Spirit to be used by that person.
3. The lists of gifts in the N.T. are simply categories of an infinite variety - like snowflakes (unique).
4. EXAMPLES: Romans 12:6-11; 1 Cor 12-14; 1 Pet 4:10-11.

Prophecy, pastor, teacher, evangelist, exhortation/encouragement, service, giving, mercy, administration, tongues, interpretation of tongues, working of miracles, word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, gifts of healings, discerning of spirits, etc. [Not an exhaustive list]

[Note that significant Biblical evidence indicates God's sovereign limitation of sign gifts to specific time periods and specific people. This is especially clear regarding those who introduced the major sections of written Scripture to the world:

- Moses with the Pentateuch (Exo 3-4).
- Elijah with the Prophets (1 Kings 17:1).
- The apostles with the New Testament (2 Cor 12:12 Signs of an apostle).

1. Commit before the Lord to use His gifts for His glory.
2. Pray for discernment
3. Read in Scripture about various Bible characters and examine their gifts.
Compare and contrast them to your own.
4. Look around and note the lives of active, believers and do the same as #3.
5. Ask a number of mature believers to tell you what gifts they see in you.
Especially ask your pastor and other church leaders.
6. Start with the top 3 or 4 gifts evidence indicates you have.
7. Ask your church leaders for training and opportunities to exercise those gifts.
8. As you serve, look for confirmation of your gifts from:
- The Holy Spirit's witness in your heart (yet beware of fickle feelings).
The Spirit will burden you toward various avenues of service as you walk in intimate fellowship with Him. And as you serve in the gifts He has given you, you will "fit" like a key in a lock. I've heard folks say things like, "This is hard, but there's no question that it fits me".

- The growing effectiveness of your efforts (or lack of effectiveness).
- The feedback you receive from others (especially mature believers).

Often these Spirit-given gifts enhance natural God-given abilities the person may have exercised even before salvation. That is, a very verbal natural "teacher" may also be given the spiritual gift of teaching God's truths after regeneration.

Especially note that these gifts function well only as the individual submits to the Spirit and walks in a Christ-esteeming motive. Such an attitude desires to glorify God, by letting the Holy Spirit serve through his thoughts, words, and actions. Unfortunately, when the person walks in a self-pleasing attitude, then abilities learned from the past exercise of spiritual gifts are perverted into destructive patterns that dishonor the Lord.

The Shepherd (Pastor-Teacher) -
In the Spirit: The shepherd has the desire and ability to oversee, lead, equip, motivate, guide, protect, and care for a group of Christians. He is driven to lead, rather than follow. He is often patient, diplomatic, empathetic, authoritative, yet self-sacrificing. [Jesus, Moses, the apostle John]

The Prophet -
In the Spirit: The prophet desires to accurately proclaim the pure word of God. He passionately defends the truths of God, insisting on quick repentance. Thus, he may appear impatient and even insensitive, opinionated, individualistic, and quick to speak up. Often the prophet is gifted in the discerning of others character. [Jesus, Nathan, Peter, Amos, Isaiah, Elijah, etc.] ** Test Deut 18:22.

The Teacher -
In the Spirit: The teacher desires to explain the principles of God's profoundly simple Word. He loves to study and is highly motivated toward accuracy in all things. Thus he often carefully systematizes God's doctrines as he exegetes them from Scripture. He communicates truths clearly and understandably, yet this gift alone is not always a great "sheep driver". Often the gift is coupled with that of shepherding. [Jesus, Paul, Peter]

The Evangelist -
In the Spirit: The evangelist can be gifted to witness to either groups, individuals, or both. Many gifted evangelists fail to recognize their gift since they are not carbon copies of "Billy Graham". The evangelist is passionately driven to lead other to Jesus Christ. He loves the gospel message and loves to share its good news with as many folks as he can. [Jesus, Andrew, Peter, Paul]

The Exhorter/Encourager - (parakeleo)
In the Spirit: The exhorter is especially gifted in motivating, or inducing other believers (especially personally - one on one) to be doers rather than mere hearers of the Word. While some encouragers are very practical and good at explaining "how" to apply God's principles, others merely serve as action catalysts. [Jesus, Barnabas]

The Server - (diakonia , diakonia)
In the Spirit: The one with the gift of service loves to give practical aid to those in need (especially physical help - "glass of water folks"). [Jesus, Deacons - Acts 6, Lydia]

The Gift of Mercy - (with cheerfulness Rom 12:8)
In the Spirit: The true gift of mercy must avoid encouraging self-pity, thus the need for cheerfulness. The mercy giver is sensitive to the struggles of others, patient, tolerant, self-sacrificing and often attracts those who are hurting. [Jesus, Good Samaritan]

The Administrator -
In the Spirit: The administrator loves to organize people, things, events, toward and effective goal. Often task oriented, the administrator delegates and motivates others to maintain and accomplish programs. [Jesus, Jethro, Nehemiah]

The Giver -
In the Spirit: The giver has a special desire to share material resources above the tithe to both those in physical need as well as for the support of the ministries of the church. Such a person gives out of a motive of love for Christ and others rather than coercion, people pleasing, or guilt. Often the giver also is driven to help raise money for others in need. [Jesus, Paul, Matthew]

LIST your own spiritual gifts and how you are exercising them in a local fellowship of believers.

1 Cor 8:1; Ezra 7:10
G.A.P. - Guided Application Project ©
Bridging the GAP from knowledge to loving action for God's Glory.

B. Prayerfully Formulate: Five questions about specific Bible passages that would encourage him to serve in a local church, using the gifts given him by the Lord.

D. Application of Principles: List your two greatest strengths and your two greatest weaknesses relative to the Local Church, and Spiritual Giftedness.
Briefly describe your plan to enhance these strengths and overcome these weaknesses.

E. Memory Verses: Memorize - Eph 4:11-12; 1 Cor 12:7, and write down these new verses from memory. Briefly describe how these verses will help you apply the principles learned this week.

F. Disagreements (Acts 17:11) If there were any principles taught with which you did not agree, list them and support your belief with clear and extensive exegesis of Scripture.

REMEMBER: To graduate & be eligible for entering Level-2, you must complete all 101 homework.

APPENDIX 1
Memory Verses for BDC 101
The Relationship of Counseling
Learning to Listen & Speaking the Truth in Love

Week 1
However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth . . . John 16:13 a (NKJV)
Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. John 17:17 (NKJV)

Week 2
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 1 Peter 1:13-15 (NKJV)

Week 3
He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him. Proverbs 18:13 (NKJV)
The first one to plead his cause seems right, Until his neighbor comes and examines him. Proverbs 18:17 (NKJV)

Week 4
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Heb 4:12

Week 5
But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.
So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8 (NKJV)

Week 6
And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:24-26 (NKJV)

Week 7
The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9 (NKJV)

Week 8
And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, Ephesians 4:11-12 (NKJV)
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 1 Corinthians 12:7 (NKJV)

In order to complete each separate level of our 5-Level program, you must read two approved books from the SOULCARE RESOURCE list, for each level. So for Level One, read two books carefully and prayerfully. When you have finished reading the two books, then write on a piece of paper the names of the books you read, state that you read them completely, sign the paper, and send it in (email is best). Remember, you are accountable to the Lord. Also, briefly answer the following questions as they pertain to each book you read:

1. List at least ten principles you learned from this book.
2. List at least five ways in which the book encouraged you to change personally.
3. List any areas of the book in which you believe the author's teaching is not in harmony with Scripture. Use Scripture to support why you disagree.