One of the central themes in Christian literature has been the relationship between theology and psychology. Though there are some differing in theological reflection and psychological reflection, yet slightly have some similar take. Theological reflection stresses on the relationship of God and the world in creation and salvation while psychological reflection stresses the world through the encroachment of human behavior. However, faith and science have been in conflict with one another, much emphasis have been made to gain more perfect views of human behavior. As this debate progresses, scholars have come up with several models (Entwistle, 2010) to obtain different viewpoints and get ways on how the two disciplines can reconcile and make sure that they work mutually for the better understanding of human behavior. This interaction between theology and psychology is reflected in the fact that such different views contribute to their mutual integration and development.
Models of Integration
Antagonistic model is considered the first model which is based on the feeling that Christian theology and psychology are incapable of harmonious association and are basically opposed to each other. Entwistle referred the model as the ‘Enemies model.’ Scriptures are used as the primary source for theology while explanation and observation of nature are the primary sources of psychology. Enemies model carries two versions namely; secular combatants and Christian combatants (Entwistle, 2010). The former describes those whose faith is to the psychology discipline and who are characterized by enmity towards religion. At the same time the latter describes those who are unwilling to confide with the human explanation and secular academic viewpoints and those who have an objection to religious values.
Spies and Colonialist Models
Spies model is the next model which does not accept thoughts from any discipline. It encourages the disapproval of the supernatural conditions of Christian theology or that psychology is a simple aspect of Christian truths, which Entwistle categorized to Foreign spies and Domestic spies respectively. The foreign spies are psychologists who consider religious beliefs that have psychological welfare, but do not commit themselves to Christian theology while the latter dilutes religious practices in order to fetch psychological welfare (Entwistle, 2010). The colonialist model is termed the third model of the relationship between Christian theology and psychology. Supporters of this model acquire findings from psychology (Entwistle, 2010). Most colonialists have a solid dedication to Christianity theology with little dedication to the psychology discipline hence the two disciplines have sternly limited interplay.
Neutral Parties and Allies Models
The fourth model is Neutral parties which represents peace between the two disciplines. It is embarked on the thought that the two disciplines are not in any state of conflict as long as they honor dominion of each other (Entwistle, 2010). Allies model is termed the final model which “recognizes the underlying unity of human nature and the legitimacy of both theological and psychological investigations…and that all truth is known by God, who is sovereign over all things” (Entwistle, p. 147). This model recognizes the worth of each discipline and neither of them is dependent on the other.
Finally, as more concerns are arising on the relationship between Christianity theology and psychology, it has led to increased researches, inventions, techniques and counselling programs between the two disciplines. It should be noted that despite the fact that the ideas about God’s Work in these disciplines are very different, they are still interconnected. The consequences of this relationship between theology and psychology are reflected in various theories and models that promote their integration. Therefore, it is essential here that such differences in the idea of how the world works contribute to the mutual development of these sciences.
Reference
Entwistle, D. (2010). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books.