Biblical Categories

The infographic emphasizes the importance of guiding discipleship conversations from non- or sub-biblical language towards a more biblically centered approach. This shift is not merely a matter of semantics but a necessary adjustment to ensure our understanding and solutions are rooted in God’s truth. As followers of Christ, we aim to interpret our experiences, challenges, and actions through the lens of Scripture. By doing so, we position ourselves to receive the wisdom and guidance the Bible offers, transcending human reasoning and psychological categories.

Understanding the Use of Non- or Sub-Biblical Language

When a person uses non- or sub-biblical language, it often reflects their background, the teachings they’ve been exposed to, or even their current level of understanding. They might not have had the opportunity to develop a sufficiency of Scripture worldview, where the Bible is seen as fully adequate for guiding every aspect of life. For instance, someone might describe their struggles in terms of “boundaries” or “emotional abuse,” using language they’ve learned from popular culture or secular counseling approaches. While these terms seem helpful and resonate with certain aspects of biblical teaching, they must capture the complete biblical picture.

Compassion in the Process

Approaching someone who uses non- or sub-biblical language requires compassion and patience. It’s crucial to understand that for many, these terms represent their current best understanding of their situation and hope for change. Challenging these categories can feel threatening, as though you’re questioning their faith or the legitimacy of their struggles. This tension is why it’s essential to approach the conversation carefully, ensuring that the person knows you’re not invalidating their experiences but inviting them to see their situation through a richer, more complete biblical perspective.

Moving Towards Biblical Language

The goal of discipleship is to gently and lovingly guide people to adopt biblical language and categories. For example, instead of talking about “self-esteem,” which centers on the self and one’s perception of worth, the Bible speaks of identity in Christ and the value that comes from being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) and redeemed by Christ (Ephesians 1:7). Instead of “emotional problems,” Scripture offers insights into the heart’s desires and motivations (James 4:1-3), leading to a deeper understanding of how to address these issues.

In situations where someone might speak of “boundaries,” we can help them see the importance of biblical parameters—God-given protections that guard our hearts and minds (Proverbs 4:23). Rather than relying on psychological diagnoses like “ADHD” or “PTSD,” we can explore how the Bible speaks to the challenges of focus, anxiety, and fear, providing hope and solutions that go beyond labels and medication.

By aligning our language with Scripture, we also align our thoughts, actions, and solutions with God’s will. This shift doesn’t minimize the person’s struggles but reorients them towards biblical truth, where genuine and lasting change can occur.

Case Study: Biff Helps Bert Transition to Biblical Language

Bert’s Struggle:
Bert, a Christian, has been struggling with what he describes as “anxiety disorder” and “low self-esteem.” He feels trapped by his fear and self-doubt, which has led him to seek counseling from Biff, a biblical counselor. Bert explains his situation using language he’s picked up from various sources—self-help books, secular therapy sessions, and conversations with friends who encourage him to boost his self-esteem and manage his anxiety.

Biff’s Approach:
Biff listens carefully to Bert’s concerns, understanding that these terms are meaningful to Bert and represent his current framework for understanding his struggles. Biff knows that immediately dismissing these terms could alienate Bert or make him feel misunderstood. Instead, Biff begins by validating Bert’s experiences and thoughts, acknowledging that living with fear and self-doubt is challenging. He then gently shifts the conversation by introducing biblical concepts that address the root issues Bert is facing.

Biff explains that while the world talks about “self-esteem,” the Bible teaches us about our identity in Christ. He helps Bert see that his worth isn’t based on his performance, appearance, or the opinions of others but on the fact that he is a beloved child of God, created in His image and redeemed by the blood of Christ. This understanding frees Bert from the need to measure up to worldly standards of self-worth.

Regarding Bert’s “anxiety disorder,” Biff leads him to passages in Scripture that speak about the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). He teaches Bert to bring his anxieties to God in prayer, trusting that God’s sovereignty and goodness can calm his fears. Biff also helps Bert recognize that his anxiety often stems from a heart that is not fully resting in God’s promises. Together, they work on cultivating trust in God rather than relying on worldly strategies for managing anxiety.

The Outcome:
Over time, Bert begins to see his struggles through a biblical lens. He no longer defines himself by secular terms like “anxiety disorder” or “low self-esteem” but understands his challenges in the context of a fallen world and a heart in need of God’s grace. He learns to trust God’s Word and apply its truths to his life, leading to fundamental transformation. By moving from non- or sub-biblical language to biblical language, Bert finds better answers and grows deeper in his faith and dependence on God.

Additional Thoughts

• The Role of Faith: It’s crucial to acknowledge that for many, using non- or sub-biblical language is not just about ignorance but involves a level of faith. They may have placed their hope in these categories and solutions, believing they offer the best path to healing. Shifting away from these categories can feel like stepping into the unknown, which is why patience and reassurance are key.
• Discipleship and Growth: Discipleship involves more than just correcting language; it’s about helping a person grow in their understanding of God, themselves, and the world. As we help them embrace biblical categories, we guide them toward a deeper relationship with God, where His Word becomes the primary source of wisdom and direction.
• The Power of the Gospel: Ultimately, the shift to biblical language is about embracing the gospel in every area of life. The gospel speaks to our identity, struggles, and hope for change. By grounding our conversations in the gospel, we help others see that their greatest need is behavioral change and heart transformation that comes through Christ.

This approach to discipleship, centered on moving from non- or sub-biblical language to biblical language, is not just about speaking differently—it’s about thinking differently, loving differently, and living differently, all by God’s Word.

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Peace,
Rick