Biblical Interpretation and Counseling, Part 2

Part 2 of a 2 part series. In this article, Jay Adams continues his discussion of the three important elements of biblical interpretation. The first element in sound Bible interpretation in counseling is the human element. Faithful interpretation demands a new heart and spiritual growth in the pastoral counselor. Second is the literary element, all the aspects of language and literary form that go into the Bible must be properly understood. Finally there is the divine element. The Holy Spirit’s inspiration and illumination alone can sanctify people. Adams concludes that counselors must analyze Scripture exegetically, theologically, literarily and, the most important of all, telically. Part 1 is in JBC 16:3 and Part 2 in JBC 17:1.