In case you can't tell, I'm excited that the Journal of Biblical Counseling is back.
And now that I've had a chance to actually read it, I'm even more pleased.
This issue is a great re-introduction to the JBC. It is well-rounded, content-rich, and immediately helpful.
The lead-off editorial introduces (or reminds) readers to what the JBC (and CCEF and biblical counseling) is. Essential reading. Dr. Powlison is as winsome yet feisty as ever.
Then, Mike Emlet explains a biblical approach to psychactive medications. What do you think that would be? It might surprise you. It's almost sure to help you.
Powlison has another article in this issue highlighting the pastor as counselor. This is an instant classic. It gives a basic rationale for pastors as counselors (one of the basic cries of this movement) but it also calls pastors to it (do it or else!) and celebrates pastors as counselors (think about how pastors are uniquely situated to do this well!). I'll read this one again and pass it around.
Julie Lowe contributes an article on helping to understand the inner workings of a child's mind using a simple diagram.
Two CCEF counseling students have Lives in Process articles about how they are progressing in their sanctification. Dr. Powlison chimes in after each pointing out helpful lessons to learn.
The CCEF faculty provide 3 book reviews that demonstrate the CCEF relationship with secular wisdom: neither capitulating to it nor ignoring it, they endeavor to show how the Bible re-interprets, judges, and conquers it (while also learning as much from common grace as possible). They also show their range: emotionally focused therapy, a memoir of mania, and a book on sexual predators (very timely with the events in the news this year).
I've already told Heather Joy what 3 articles I think she should read. I'm not sure it scratches me exactly where I itch today in the way it did a decade ago, but the quality seems very good.
The JBC promises to continue its mission of restoring Christ to counseling and counseling to the church! Read it.
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