I put this video on my blog several years ago but just came across it again. It illustrates so very well the approach that religious legalism takes toward counseling people by telling them to find the strength from within their own willpower to make changes in their lives. I think it's hilarious but, sadly, illustrates scenarios that are all to true to life in "Christian counseling" everywhere.
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That is so funny! Bob Newhart's just saying what every one of us (pastors/counsellors/friends) has been thinking! This should be required viewing. The law truly is useless for changing behavior. Christ alone is our victory. Thanks Steve - this is the funniest thing I've seen in ages.
ReplyDeleteThanks- I had never seen that. Very funny - yet very serious.
ReplyDeleterambler=russell m
ReplyDeleteStupidity plus idiocy equals zero. Thanks Steve for pointing out by way of humor how frustrating and futile sometimes Christian Counseling. Your choice of media clip is so great! Dave C
ReplyDeleteWhile that is an obviously wrong example of a counseling model for the Christian, I submit that there is a lot of right sounding "biblical" methodology that is equally as wrong, with tragic outcomes. There is only one proper counseling "technique" and that is founded within the Cross of Jesus Christ. It is the only method Paul taught for us to have the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus set us free from the Law of Sin and Death. Praying more doesn't do it, going to church more doesn't do it, neither does reading more scripture or handing out more tracts. Jesus and the Finished Work of the Cross. Period. That's biblical counseling.
ReplyDeleteI agree. The cross and finished work of the cross is where it starts and ends at the rule and reign of God thru Christ in the heart and lifestyle!
DeletePastor Kevin Lynch,
ReplyDeleteComing to the cross is not the answer for everything. It is not the answer for all the devout Christians who are already "saved" who struggle with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, etc. And all those Christian marriages where hierarchical power structure tune-up is not the answer, i.e. submission/headship. And Christians who suffer traumatic injuries or are victims of violence or who have been spiritually abused by their pastors.
You make the point of the video with your comment. Irony?
Actually, to make this totally accurate, at the point she said "I can't ..." he should have responded with, "No, you mean you WON'T."
ReplyDeleteThose smug, smarmy, self-righteous, know-it-all fatheads ALWAYS say crap like that. They LIE.