What are the biggest counseling issue among Christians today?
I'm not sure it is possible to pinpoint just one, but I know addictions are huge since our hearts are naturally idolatrous. We can erect an idol very easily and quickly when we need something to provide us with meaning or comfort.
What effects does this problem have and will it have on individuals in the future?
Spiritual enslavement leads to broken relationships and dysfunctional Christian living. The end result is a selfishness that hinders our ability to know, love, and serve.
What is the biggest problem with the next generation of Christian leaders?
I fear that the onslaught of information is going to be overwhelming. It is hard to keep pace with the cultural issues when the culture is changing so rapidly. The scriptures are always relevant, but I think it is getting harder to keep up in demonstrating the relevance of scriptures.
What is the solution to this problem?
More education! Seminary! We need the skills to do our work efficiently and effectively at a more rapid pace.
What have you learned about the importance of the family structure and the effect it has/ or lack of it has on a child?
Children need structure and they especially need a biblical structure. Without a biblical structure, families can lose coherence and connectedness.
What are the top 3 counseling books you would recommend?
MacArthur, Biblical Counseling; Tripp, Instruments in the Hands of the Redeemer; and Powlison, Seeing with New Eyes.
What are the top 3 most influential books in your life?
Welch, Addictions; Langberg, Counseling Survivors of Sexual Abuse; any of Jerry Bridges books.
Why did you choose to become a Biblical Counselor?
It chose me. I was teaching in a Christian school and became acutely aware of the level of problems our students were facing. I began pursuing my D.Min. in counseling at that point not realizing that I'd be teaching counseling in a college/seminary.
What is your biggest worry for the fundamentalist movement/ church in the next 10 years?
That we allow traditions to overwhelm our theology.
What do you plan on doing 10 years from now?
I would like to be writing more by then.
What is one thing you would like to do before you die?
Jump out of an airplane (with a parachute of course).
What are important criteria to consider before you decide to get engaged or married to an individual?
Are we going the same direction? Do we share the same goals? Can I help this person become more Christlike? Can we glorify God more together than apart?
Who are your favorite theologians?
I like Erickson
What is your favorite attribute of God? Why?
Love; His love moved him to show grace to us even when we were still sinners. His love paves the way for me to become holy.
Who is your favorite character in the Bible? Why?
Paul. His tenacity amazes me.
What is your favorite sport?
Football
Who is your favorite sports athlete?
Brian Urlacher
Do you have a favorite TV show?
Not really.
Who has been the most influential individual in your life outside your parents?
Several: Loran Boe (high school Bible teacher) because of his persistent faithfulness to God and His Word; my Bible Faculty colleagues--they inspire me every day personally and professionally.
If you could sit down with anyone in the world, who would it be?
Ed Welch
What is your favorite attribute about your wife?
That she said yes not knowing what I'd turn out to be.
How did you meet your wife?
In church.
If there is one thing most people don't know about you (and that you are willing to share with the public), what is it?
I use doughnuts as a cover for my real love: Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (dark chocolate are the very best).
