Ep. 550 Phil Sessa Interviews Rick Thomas on Biblical Counseling

Shows Main Idea – In this episode, we explore the crucial distinction between biblical counseling and secular psychology. Rick Thomas joins us to unpack the historical roots of counseling and to highlight the sufficiency of Scripture in addressing life’s deepest struggles. Far more than behavior modification, biblical counseling offers true, gospel-centered transformation.

Show Notes

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In this podcast episode, we delve into the critical distinctions between biblical counseling and its secular counterpart. Our discussion centers on the foundational truth that biblical counseling is not a derivative of secular psychology, but rather the faithful application of God’s Word to the full spectrum of human life. Unlike secular approaches that often aim for surface-level behavioral change, biblical counseling seeks authentic, heart-level transformation through the power of the gospel.

Our guest, Rick Thomas, brings deep insight and historical perspective, emphasizing that biblical counseling is not a modern innovation—it has existed long before secular systems began to shape how the world, and sadly, the church, understands mental and emotional struggles. Rick walks us through how secular ideologies have subtly and steadily influenced Christian thinking, often displacing the sufficiency of Scripture with methods rooted in man-centered philosophies.

Together, we underscore the vital importance of returning to a high view of God’s Word. Believers must learn to trust the Scriptures as fully sufficient for life and godliness, not merely as a spiritual supplement, but as the primary framework through which we understand and address life’s most personal and persistent challenges.

This conversation is both a warning and a call to action. It’s a warning against adopting secular models that lack biblical discernment, and a call for believers to engage in counseling that rests firmly on God’s revealed truth. We invite you to listen in and be equipped to think more clearly about the nature of true change, the purpose of counsel, and how to minister God’s Word with care and courage in a world increasingly shaped by secular ideology.

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).