Speak The Truth

EP. 209 Singing as Soul Care: Using Music as a Spiritual Discipline in Biblical Counseling - W/Worship Leader and BC Adam Westlake

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:03:37 -0500

Michael interviews Adam Westlake, a worship leader and biblical counselor, about using music and singing as a growth assignment in counseling. Westlake describes singing as “integrative work” that aligns what believers know and feel, citing Colossians 3:16 and Ephesians 5 on singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, and discussing James’ connection between suffering, prayer, and cheerful singing. They argue singing is often under-practiced outside Sunday services yet can help sufferers express truth “slant,” foster solidarity, and provide “portable theology” the Spirit brings to mind. They address concerns about emotional manipulation, emphasizing tethering emotion to what is true about Jesus, and note the value of varied song forms. Westlake shares a daily text-based devotional, “Sing,” and the episode ends with him leading the doxology.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:37 Meet Adam Westlake
01:04 Why Singing Matters
04:53 Singing in Suffering
07:39 Worship Leading and Counseling
09:56 Emotion and Worship
13:26 Music as Homework
17:22 Daily Sing Devotional
19:41 Doxology and Farewell

Episode Mentions
Register Now for the 2026 Called to Counsel Conference
All My Questions - Bethany Bernard (Spotify)
Sing - Daily Devotional with the Worship Initiative
Adam Westlake Counseling

EP 208 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference Understanding Emotions Track Invitation W/Brad Hambrick

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:52:17 -0500

Michael previews a 2026 “Understanding Emotions” track with track leader Brad Hambrick, focused on anger, bitterness, and pride. Hambrick shares his roles as pastor of counseling at The Summit Church and assistant professor at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and introduces the track team: Jeremy Pierre, Shannon MCCoy, and Andrew Dealy. The track aims to provide deep, practical biblical theology, emphasize how sinful emotions distort good God-given purposes, and help counselors cultivate self-awareness in those who deny their struggles. Session topics include Pierre on flesh and spirit and how distortions occur; Dealy on counseling pride and developing humble confidence; Hambrick on recognizing sinful anger and pursuing “constructive displeasure of mercy”; MCCoy on identifying bitterness and moving toward healthy lament; and a concluding Pierre-led discussion with possible audience questions.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
01:03 Meet Brad Hambrick
02:49 Why This Emotions Track
03:02 Anger Pride Bitterness Framework
04:46 Session Lineup Overview
07:01 Conference Details and Wrap

Episode Mentions
Resister Now

EP. 207 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel 2026 Conference - Hidden Abuse in the Church and Home Track Invitation W/Greg Wilson

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:42:09 -0500

Michael interviews track leader Greg Wilson about the “Hidden Abuse” track at the ABC (Called to Counsel) conference at Doxology Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Wilson, a Dallas–Fort Worth biblical and licensed counselor who leads Soul Care Associates, introduces the track team: Chris Moles (PeaceWorks), Kirsten Christianson (Bethlehem Baptist Church), and Tim St. John (counseling pastor in Southern California). The track’s objective is to help attendees recognize coercive control and other abuse that is often hidden in relationships, and to respond in ways that honor the Lord and help both victims and perpetrators. Wilson outlines eight sessions: fear in hidden abuse; identifying coercive behavior patterns; helping victims; two sessions on perpetrators and God’s kingdom; two sessions on how coercive control thrives in churches and how churches can resist it; and a concluding Q&A panel. The track will use a case study (“Sarah”) from the Peace Interrupted podcast.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:19 Meet Greg Wilson
01:29 Hidden Abuse Track
01:52 Greg's Background
02:56 Track Team
06:23 Why Hidden Abuse
08:45 Who Track Helps
10:37 Eight Session Overview
15:35 Q and A Panel
16:38 Sarah Case Study
18:34 Register and Closing

Episode Mentions
Register for the ABC 2026 Called to Counsel Conference
When Home Hurts: A Guide for Responding Wisely to Domestic Abuse in Your Church - Wilson & Pierre

The Heart of Domestic Abuse: Gospel Solutions for Men Who Use Control and Violence in the Home - Moles
Caring for Families Caught in Domestic Abuse: A Guide toward Protection, Refuge, and Hope - Moles, Christianson, Wilson, and Others
The Path to Peace: A 90-Day Journey from Control to Christ-Like Love - Moles (Men of Peace Devotional)

Sarah's Story - Peace Interrupted Youtube Channel

Chrismoles.org

EP. 206 Building a Culture of Biblical Soul Care: A Discipleship Continuum for the Local Church W/Pastor of Soul Care Lee Lewis

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0500

On the Speak the Truth podcast, the host interviews pastor and SoulCare Consulting International leader Lee Lewis about developing a culture of biblical care in local churches. Lewis argues that care must extend beyond Sunday services and formal counseling to include ongoing one-another ministry, preventative care, and equipping rhythms, with elders casting and sustaining the vision. He highlights common challenges such as siloed ministries, dependence on professionals, and unsustainable pastor-centered models, pointing to biblical patterns like Ephesians 4, Matthew 28, Exodus 18, Acts 6, and 2 Timothy 2:2. Lewis explains SoulCare’s “Transformed” training continuum (T1–T6) from mutual care and small group leadership through coaching, pastoral care, and formal/intensive counseling, including tools like an SOS triage matrix. The episode also describes SoulCare’s church “360” assessment and multi-year roadmap to contextualize and scale care.

00:00 Road Trip Intro
00:24 Meet Lee Lewis
00:57 Why Culture Matters
04:33 One Another Rhythms
08:38 Elders Cast Vision
09:48 Scalability Exodus 18
11:34 From Concept to Tools
13:07 Discipleship Continuum
13:26 Transformed Framework
13:32 T1 Mutual Care
14:23 T2 Small Group Leaders
15:11 T3 Coaching Model
15:46 T4 Pastoral Care
16:10 T5-T6 Counseling Track
16:31 Soul Care Continuum
17:02 360 Health Assessment
19:01 Roadmap and Scaling
20:01 Case Study Success
21:32 Relational Progressions
23:44 Reclaiming Counseling
25:16 Final Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Made to Minister Conference 2025 - Lee's Handout
Soul Care Consulting International
Discipleship Continuum (T2 Material)

EP. 205 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference 2026 - Pastors & Church Leadership Track Invitation W/Robert Cheong

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0500

This episode of Speak the Truth previews the Pastors and Church Leadership track for the 2026 Call to Council Conference (April 23–25, Fort Worth, Texas, at Doxology Bible Church) through a conversation with track leader Robert Cheong, executive director of Gospel Care Ministries and former pastor of care at Sojourn Church Midtown. Cheong explains the track was born from pastors feeling overwhelmed by counseling resources and uncertain how counseling fits with broader ministry responsibilities. He introduces the track team—Garrett Higbee, Dwayne Bond, Joe Keller, and Cheong—highlighting their extensive ministry experience. The objective is to help pastors and leaders grow in confidence in applying the gospel to personal life, shepherding and ministry issues, and leadership challenges, with Q&A after sessions and a final panel. The track aims to encourage weary leaders and serve pastors, church leaders, and non-counselor attendees.

00:00 Welcome and Conference Intro

01:08 Meet Robert Cheong

01:47 Why This Track Exists

03:37 Pastors and Leaders Track Overview

03:53 Track Team Lineup

05:47 Track Objectives and Format

07:25 What Youll Learn in Practice

08:33 Who This Track Is For

11:39 Register and Closing

Episode Mentions
Register for the Pastors & Church Leadership Track
Check out Gospel Care Ministries - Robert Cheong
Soul Care Consulting - Garrett Higbee
Proximus Group - Dwayne Bond

EP. 204 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference 2026 Counseling Through Colossians Track Invitation W/Pete Potloff

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:04:11 -0500

In this bonus episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcome's Pete Potloff to introduce a new track for the 2026 Call to Counsel conference: “Counseling Through Colossians.” They reflect on recording at Salem Heights since 2019 and share plans for remodeling space into a counseling center and future training facilities. Pete explains that the track will walk expositionally through the four chapters of Colossians to show how to counsel from a full book of the Bible rather than topically, aiming to help attendees rightly handle Scripture (2 Timothy 2:15). Track speakers include Pete Potloff, Lee Lewis, Jonathan Holmes, and Nathan Scroggins, and sessions will include case studies and suggested homework, covering themes like Christ’s preeminence, godly wisdom, avoiding legalism, renewed mindset, and the Christ-ruled life.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:24 Reunion and Memories
01:19 Church Growth Plans
02:06 New Colossians Track
03:08 Meet the Speakers
03:58 Practical Workshop Format
05:19 Session Topics Overview
06:58 Who Should Attend
08:21 Register and Closing

Episode Mentions
Register for the Counseling Through Colossians

EP. 203 Breaking Free from Codependency: A Biblical Perspective on Burdens, Boundaries, and Trusting God W/Counseling & Soul Care Director Chris Minott

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:06:55 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael interviews Chris Minott, Director of Soul Care and Biblical Counseling at Summit Church in Fort Myers, Florida, about codependency within ongoing discussions of trauma. Minott explains codependency’s cultural origin in the late 1970s around addiction-affected relationships and defines it as overly responsible, controlling, identity-seeking behavior that continues even when the addict recovers. She frames codependency biblically as relational idolatry and fear of man, drawing on Ed Welch’s When People Are Big and God Is Small, and describes manifestations such as people-pleasing, caretaking, rescuing, and helpless-victim patterns. Using Galatians 6:1–5, she distinguishes burden-bearing from carrying one’s own load, offers tools to clarify responsibility versus concern and entrusting concerns to God, emphasizes God’s attributes, and points to Jesus’ example (including Lazarus) for compassionate, truth-filled love.

00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup
00:49 Meet Chris Minott
03:37 What Codependency Means
04:44 Cultural Roots and Heart Issues
09:39 Common Codependency Patterns
14:03 Burden Bearing vs Enabling
16:16 Tools for Healthy Boundaries
23:07 Jesus as the Model
25:07 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

Episode Mentions
Counseling Codependency Handout - Chris Minott

EP. 202 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference 2026 - Practical Theology in Biblical Counseling Track Invitation W/Nathan Penny

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0500

The episode of Speak the Truth previews the new Practical Theology track at the Call to Council Conference (April 23–25, 2026) at Doxology Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas, featuring host Michael and guest Nathan Penney, Pastor of Soul Care Ministries at Hope Bible Church in Oakville (Toronto area). Nathan describes his ministry overseeing counseling and discipleship, then explains the track’s objective: working through the first seven questions of the ABC Level 2 theology exam using a “head, heart, hands” approach that defines doctrine, shares personal transformation, and applies truth to counseling and discipleship. The team includes Shanda Anderson and Jason Kovacs (a Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition board member). Sessions cover sufficiency of Scripture, God’s revelation (including applied revelation), incommunicable and communicable attributes, names of God, the will/sovereignty/providence of God, the Trinity, and an eighth-session Q&A panel, emphasizing accessibility for both Level 2 students and all Christians.

00:00 Welcome and Mission
00:53 Meet Nathan Penney
01:14 Soul Care Ministry Context
02:17 Conference Connection and Sabbatical
03:03 Why This Track Matters
04:01 Practical Theology Objective
06:23 Track Team and Audience
08:23 Who Should Attend
10:38 Session Breakdown Overview
10:56 Sessions One to Three
14:29 Sessions Four to Eight
18:42 Making Theology Street Level
20:59 Final Invitation and Wrap

Episode Mentions
Register for the Conference

EP. 201 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference 2026 - Fundamentals of Biblical Counseling Track Invitation W/Emily Dempster

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 02:02:00 -0500

Mike interviews Emily, director of certification training at ABC, as the track leader for the Fundamentals of Biblical Counseling Methods at the Call to Council conference. Emily explains the track’s purpose for online and newer counselors, those in Level One, and others exploring biblical counseling methods, and outlines sessions that move from a theology of care in the church through beginning, middle, and ending counseling sessions. Speakers include Dan Ghramm on theology of care and using the Bible’s story “from Garden to Glory,” Emily on starting well and ending well, Chris Minott on unpacking a counselee’s story and dynamics of the heart, and Shauna on the character of God and sharing Scripture in counseling. The track ends with a panel applying the methods to a case study, with several new lessons from last year.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:28 Emily Joins In
01:19 Emily’s Role at ABC
02:00 Why This Track Matters
02:41 Track Overview and Flow
02:51 Theology of Care
04:08 Starting Well Sessions
04:28 Garden to Glory Framework
04:59 Unpacking the Story
05:37 Heart Dynamics and Change
05:51 God’s Character and Scripture
06:29 Ending Well and Case Panel
07:33 Register and Final Invite

Episode Mentions
Register Now

EP. 200 Frontlines Ministries: Strengthening Missionaries Through Church-Centered Biblical Counseling W/Lay Pastor Danny Falcone

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:04:28 -0600

Front Lines Ministries: Strengthening Missionaries Through Church-Centered Biblical Counseling

In this “Speak the Truth” episode Mike interviews Danny Falcone, a lay elder at Delray Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and leader of Front Lines Ministries’ training and equipping. Danny explains Front Lines’ mission to help churches strengthen missionary care and extend faithful years on the field through heart-focused, church-centered training, counseling, and consulting, responding to high missionary attrition and preventable issues like team conflict and spiritual or emotional struggles. He describes their counseling approach that involves sending or field churches, work with missionaries and indigenous pastors in regions including Africa, China, and the Middle East/North Africa, and plans to launch a care-and-equipping platform with dashboards, care notes, and training pipelines for missions, member care, and pastoral internships. He shares how to connect via flmin.org, give financially, and pray for wisdom and Christ-centered endurance.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:35 Meet Danny Falcone
01:17 Danny’s Family and Ministry
01:56 Why Front Lines Exists
03:20 Heart Focused Missionary Care
05:12 Care Dashboard Platform
06:29 Training Pipelines and Member Care
09:24 Where They Serve Globally
11:17 How to Support Front Lines
12:35 Partnerships and Resource Library
14:21 Prayer Needs and Vision
16:20 Closing Encouragement and Farewell

Episode Mentions
Frontlines Ministries

EP. 199 Bonus Episode Called to Counsel Conference 2026 - Mental Health Track Invitation W/Track Leader Jeremy Lelek

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 11:47:13 -0600

Mike is joined virtually by Jeremy Lelek to preview his Call to Council conference track on biblically unpacking mental health diagnoses. Jeremy explains the objective of engaging intimidating DSM categories by describing them from a psychiatric perspective while bringing Scripture to bear on what to do and how to interpret struggles through a biblical anthropology that includes spiritual realities without ignoring physiological and empirical data. The track will cover PTSD, borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and scrupulosity, and bipolar disorder, with sessions led by Beth Claes, Dr. Nate Brooks, and Dr. Matthew Lapine. They aim to equip licensed professionals, pastors, and laypeople with practical tools and confidence that God’s Word speaks comprehensively to these issues.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:21 Meet Jeremy Lelek
00:43 Track Overview
02:06 DSM and Scripture
03:28 Diagnoses Covered
04:20 Track Team Spotlight
07:41 Why This Matters
08:21 Church Lens on Labels
09:46 Biblical Anthropology
10:59 Who Should Attend
12:32 Final Invitation

Episode Mentions
Register for the Mental Health Track

EP. 198 Bonus Episode: Called to Counsel Conference 2026 - Trauma Track Invitation W/Track Leader John Henderson

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this bonus episode of Speak the Truth, Michael introduces John Henderson to preview the Trauma Track for the Call to Counsel Conference 2026, led by Henderson alongside Darby Strickland and Curtis Solomon. They describe the track’s aim of equipping counselors to bring compassionate, patient, gospel-centered ministry to men and women suffering trauma, emphasizing deep healing that requires biblical wisdom and a robust view of the person as an embodied soul made in God’s image. The eight sessions include biblical anthropology of trauma, defining trauma and its development, describing and entering the sufferer’s world, remembering/reliving/retelling and reinterpreting through Scripture, grief and lament, guilt and shame and God’s covering in Christ, and a closing Q&A. The track is presented as culturally and personally relevant and intended to demystify trauma while fostering dependence on God’s grace, Spirit, and Word.

00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:19 Bonus Episode Setup
00:33 Trauma Track Purpose
01:38 Session 1 Biblical Anthropology
01:55 Session 2 Defining Trauma
02:12 Sessions 3-4 Entering Their World
02:44 Session 5 Retelling the Story
03:23 Sessions 6-7 Lament and Shame
04:17 Session 8 Q&A Wrap Up
04:34 Why This Track Matters
05:56 Demystifying Trauma Counseling
06:55 Hope in Christ and Scripture
07:32 Final Invitation to 2026

EP. 197 Missions Mini-Series Biblical Counseling in New Zealand(NZBCA) W/Darryl Burling & Jason Winslade

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:35:57 -0600

Recorded at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Global Summit, Michael interviews New Zealanders Darryl Burling and Jason Winslade about advancing biblical counseling and missions in New Zealand. Darryl founded the New Zealand Biblical Counseling Association (NZBCA) in 2017 and says it is being rebuilt with new board members and a renewed, context-sensitive approach rather than importing an American system. Winslade a Christchurch pastor, describes developing biblical counseling in his church, launching New Zealand’s first biblical counseling center (Hope Counseling Center), and joining the NZBCA board to strengthen national reach across both islands. They explain NZBCA’s virtual structure, speaker/workshop requests, volunteer opportunities, and a national counseling request process that routes people to certified counselors or seasoned pastors. They announce two 2027 conferences: March in Christchurch with Jim Fain and September in Auckland with Stuart Scott, emphasizing equipping local churches to reclaim soul care and use counseling evangelistically.

00:00 Welcome and Setup
00:58 Meet Darrell and Jason
03:39 NZBCA Vision and Context
05:43 Nationwide Structure and Travel
07:24 Request Speakers and Workshops
09:09 Conferences and Guest Speakers
11:26 Volunteering and Church Support
13:14 Counseling Requests and Local Hubs
16:20 Why Counseling Belongs in Church
18:46 Final Thanks and Next Steps

Episode Mentions
NZBCA
Hope Counseling Center

EP. 196 Missions Mini-Series: Biblical Counselling Africa - Equipping the Church for Gospel-Centered Care in Africa W/Kyle Johnston & Jane Kratz

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0600

Biblical Counseling Africa: Equipping the Church for Gospel-Centered Care in South Africa and Beyond

Recorded on the road at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Global Summit, this Speak the Truth podcast episode features interviews with Kyle Johnston and Jane Kratz from Cape Town, South Africa, about their ministry contexts and the growth of Biblical Counseling Africa. Jane shares how her husband’s death in 2012 led her to pursue a theologically rich approach to grief and loss, moving from prior psychology studies to biblical counseling training through ABC’s Equipped to Counsel material and later studying at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, with additional church experience in Texas before returning to South Africa. Kyle, an ordained minister at Gracefield Church in Fish Hoek, explains how pastoral ministry exposed a gap between confident pulpit preaching and applying Scripture in complex, conversational counseling situations; this led him to training through Wayne Mack’s curriculum in South Africa and a master’s degree at The Master’s University in Los Angeles (2012), while continuing to prioritize pastoral care and counseling in church life.

They discuss why they remain committed to serving in Africa despite opportunities elsewhere, noting both the significant needs in Cape Town and South Africa and the mission field created by migration from other African nations. They describe cultural observations, including hospitality and the value of contextual ministry shaped by South Africa’s historical experience, including navigating multicultural ministry after apartheid.

Kyle outlines how Biblical Counseling Africa began in part to make CCEF training more accessible and affordable in their context and to expand beyond South Africa through online courses. The organization’s aim is to equip local churches across Africa to provide wise, loving, gospel-centered pastoral care that restores Christ to counseling. They describe a three-level approach: (1) grassroots seminars, talks, and workshops (including using ABC conference resources with local case studies and courses such as Jane’s nine-week grief care course); (2) training such as ABC’s Equipped to Counsel offered during COVID and in-person; and (3) advanced CCEF courses, with growing enrollment. Future focus includes helping pastors develop a church-wide culture of care, vulnerability, and mutual ministry beyond sermon-centered expectations.

They explain that Biblical Counseling Africa is a nonprofit and invite listeners to support the work through prayer, financial giving, and volunteering. They emphasize the need for resources to sustain operations, relieve volunteer load, and provide scholarships for students from poorer African contexts. They express gratitude for support from American partners including CCEF, ABC, BCC, and others, noting that courses are offered at about a quarter of the normal cost, and direct listeners to biblicalcounsellingafrica.com for more information and contact.

00:00 Welcome to Speak the Truth (Podcast Intro)
01:09 Meet Jane: From Grief & Loss to Biblical Counseling
02:30 Texas Culture Shock & Accent Stories
03:39 Meet Kyle: Pastoral Ministry Path into Counseling
06:12 Why Stay & Serve in Africa? Calling, Need, and Gifts
08:23 Jane’s Perspective: Returning Home, Mission Field in South Africa
10:56 Culture Notes: Hospitality, Affection, and Multicultural Ministry
12:53 What Is Biblical Counseling Africa? Origins, Partnerships, Vision
15:20 Equipping the Church: Training Levels & Accessible Resources
16:35 Level 1 Training: Seminars, Consultations & Explaining Biblical Counseling
17:16 Grief Care Course & Topic-Based Workshops (Burnout, Anxiety, Depression, etc.)
17:53 Using ABC Conference Content: Videos, Workshops & Local Case Studies
18:41 Advanced Training: Equipped to Counsel & CCEF Courses
19:14 Next Step: Building a Churchwide Culture of Care (Pastors + One-Another Ministry)
20:31 Beyond the Pulpit: Equipping the Saints & How Counseling Shapes Preaching
24:10 How to Support Biblical Counseling Africa: Prayer, Giving & Website Info
26:08 Funding Needs: Affordable Training, Supporting Students & Volunteer Capacity
29:04 Volunteering with BCA: Gifts, Admin Help & Partnering via Email
30:05 Wrap-Up: Invitation to Visit South Africa, Gratitude & Final Thanks

Episode Mentions
Biblical Counselling Africa
The Comfort of God in Grief - A Nine Week Grief Care Course by Jane

EP. 195 Missions Mini-Series: Navigating Missions through Biblical Counseling in Stockholm, Sweden W/Missionaries Joe & Ursula Morell

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael & Emily are joined by Joe and Ursula Morell from Stockholm, Sweden. They discuss the critical role of biblical counseling in missions, the challenges and growth in their local church, and their journey toward seeking to be a training center for biblical counseling in Scandinavia. Highlighting the interplay between personal struggles, theological training, and the missionary task, the conversation underscores the importance of practical theology and mutual care in building resilient Christian communities.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:35 Meet Our Guests from Stockholm, Sweden

01:47 The Journey to Biblical Counseling

03:54 Personal Struggles and Growth in Ministry

06:21 Building a Church with Biblical Counseling

07:26 Challenges and Realities of Missionary Work

14:08 Connecting with A, B, C and Training Initiatives

18:56 Current Church Context and Demographics

22:23 Implementing Biblical Counseling in Church Life

26:42 Future Goals and Prayer Requests

Episode Mentions
Contact ABC

EP. 194 Missions Mini-Series: Christ is Better (Cristo es Mejor) W/Church Planting Pastor Kike Torres

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:20:19 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael interviews Kike Torres, a pastor dedicated to church planting and biblical counseling. Kike shares his journey, ministry background, and his approach to evangelism and pastoral care. He discusses planting churches in Mexico and internationally, including recent efforts in Panama and the United States. Kike also highlights the importance of training and equipping leaders through a culturally sensitive approach that emphasizes mutual care and biblical counseling. Listeners are encouraged to support his ministry through prayer, financial contributions, and active involvement.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:33 Meet Kike Torres: A New Brother in Ministry

01:36 Kike's Journey in Ministry

02:57 Church Planting and Global Missions

05:24 Implementing Biblical Counseling in Church Planting

09:41 Cultural Differences in Ministry

11:41 Equipping and Certification in Biblical Counseling

14:28 Future Plans and How to Support

18:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Cristo es Mejor - Kike's Ministry
Check out Kike's books

EP. 193 Trauma Mini-Series: Responding to Crises in the Church W/Pastor Matt MacCollin

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:22:27 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcomes Pastor Matt MacCollin to discuss the biblical approach to responding to crisis situations in the church. Matt shares his personal testimony of overcoming a traumatic past, including substance abuse and a life-changing car accident, which ultimately led him to faith and his current role as pastor at Salem Heights Church. They delve into addressing crises such as tragic accidents, sickness, adultery, abuse, and addiction, emphasizing the importance of prayer, careful listening, and the application of Scripture in counseling. Practical advice and key biblical passages are highlighted to equip listeners in providing effective crisis care.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:46 Matt MacCollin's Testimony

03:31 Journey to Pastoral Ministry

05:37 Responding to Crisis Situations

08:25 Practical Steps for Crisis Counseling

15:31 The Importance of Prayer and Wisdom in Counseling

16:51 Guiding with Wisdom and Prayer

17:09 The Importance of Slowing Down

17:23 The Power of Prayer in Crisis

18:34 Scriptural Guidance for Healing

21:37 Addressing Addiction and False Worship

22:10 Handling Adultery with Compassion

24:18 Practical Applications in Counseling

26:11 The Role of Theology in Crisis

29:47 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions

2026 National Called to Counsel Conference - Register Now
The Most Excellent Way - Victory Over Addiction

EP. 192 Trauma Mini-Series: Hebrews 12: Wisdom Adorns the Shamed W/Kristin Silva Linder

Association of Biblical counselors — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael returns with guest Kristin Silva Linder, an author and biblical counselor from Portland. The conversation delves into the theme, 'Wisdom Adorns the Shamed,' focusing on how wisdom and scriptural truths can address the impacts of trauma and shame. Kristin shares personal experiences and insights into helping individuals who feel unworthy or dirty on the inside by showing how God's promises beautify them. She discusses the importance of holding onto steadfast love and faithfulness to trust God's narrative over feelings of shame. The episode underscores that through leaning on Jesus and embodying His words, one can experience radiance, beautification, and joy despite the burdens of shame.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Introduction
01:23 Kristin Silva Linder's Background and Current Work
02:47 Exploring the Concept of Shame and Trauma
06:49 God's Response to Shame and Trauma
13:33 Practical Wisdom from Proverbs
18:17 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

EP. 191 Trauma Mini-Series Avoiding Burnout: Caring for Trauma Survivors without Becoming Overwhelmed W/Beth Claes

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael discuss the topic of burnout among counselors, particularly those dealing with trauma cases. Joined by recurring guest Beth Claes, they explore how burnout can manifest, the personal and professional factors that contribute to it, and effective strategies for prevention. Beth shares her personal experiences with burnout, the importance of recognizing red flags, and the critical role of self-care and spiritual refuge. The conversation also delves into practical advice for counselors on maintaining a healthy soul and seeking support before reaching a tipping point.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:20 Guest Introduction and Topic Overview

00:44 Beth's Personal Experience with Burnout

03:18 Defining Burnout and Its Symptoms

04:34 Contributions to Burnout in Counseling

08:20 Recognizing and Addressing Burnout

15:12 Steps to Avoid Burnout

19:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

EP. 190 Trauma Mini-Series: Psalm 46:4–7 God's Presence in Our Pain W/Curtis Solomon

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, host Mike and special guest, Curtis Solomon discuss the themes of biblical truth and counseling. They explore the significance of God's presence through Psalms 46, emphasizing God's power and provision amid suffering and trauma. Curtis shares updates on his new ministry, the Sentinel Institute, which focuses on empirical research, resources, and reforms in biblical counseling. He also discusses his work at Boyce College and the Biblical Counseling Coalition. The conversation underscores the role of God’s presence and character in providing comfort and solace during times of pain and affliction.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
00:43 Casual Conversation and Personal Anecdotes
01:23 Conference Theme and Counseling Through Psalms
02:09 Curtis Solomon's Recent Transitions and New Ministry
03:38 The Sentinel Institute: Mission and Vision
09:01 Exploring Psalm 46:4–7 God's Presence in Our Pain
11:36 Historical Context and Symbolism in Psalm 46
20:33 New Covenant Perspective and Personal Application
24:05 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
The Sentinel Institute
Boyce College
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

EP 189 Trauma Mini-Series: Seeing Trauma through Psalm 55 W/John Henderson

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike dives deep into understanding trauma from a biblical perspective with special guest John Henderson. The discussion focuses on defining trauma, interpreting it using scripture, and providing guidance for biblical counselors. Using Psalm 55, they explore how trauma affects individuals on an inner, outer, and interpersonal level, and how faith and Scripture can guide one through its challenges. The episode also provides practical advice for counselors on how to compassionately care for those experiencing trauma, and it suggests additional resources for further reading.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:20 Excitement for the Episode
00:37 Understanding Trauma Through a Biblical Lens
02:05 Psalm 55: A Biblical Perspective on Trauma
05:56 The Reality and Description of Trauma
09:29 The Dimensions and Development of Trauma
15:01 Interpersonal and Inner Person Effects of Trauma
24:06 Encouragement for Counselors
28:51 Resources and Conclusion

Episode Mentions
When its Trauma - Darby Strickland
I Have PTSD - Curtis Solomon
Suffering and Psalm 119 & Peace Be Still: Learning Psalm 131 by Heart (JBC Articles)

EP. 188 Counseling Through God's Attributes - Holy: Embracing Holy Perfection Isa. 6:3-7 W/ Mike Van Dyke

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Speak the Truth, the hosts delve into the attribute of God's holiness with Michael, discussing his entry titled 'Embracing Holy Perfection.' They explore the complexities of God's holiness, its association with redemption, moral purity, and how it shapes believers' lives. The conversation includes reflections on pertinent biblical texts, such as Isaiah 6:3-7 and Hebrews 12:10, discussing the distinction between striving for holiness and avoiding legalism. Practical counseling applications and session strategies are shared, emphasizing encountering God's holiness and its impact on personal transformation and worship.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:22 Discussing God's Holiness with Michael
01:49 Defining Holiness and Its Implications
03:53 Isaiah's Encounter with God's Holiness
05:28 Connecting Holiness to Counseling
08:13 Practical Applications of Holiness
09:56 Striving for Holiness in Daily Life
11:55 The Role of Discipline in Holiness
26:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC RES

EP. 187 Counseling Through God's Attributes: The Steadfast Love of the LORD - Lam 3:22 W/Shauna Van Dyke

Association of Biblical Counseling — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the focus is on exploring God's steadfast love as highlighted in Lamentations 3. The hosts, Michael and Shauna, delve into how biblical counselors can educate, equip, and encourage counselees by reflecting on God's unceasing love and faithfulness. They discuss practical approaches for integrating these truths into counseling sessions to offer hope and stability, especially during times of suffering. The episode also emphasizes the importance of bringing the vertical truth of who God is to the horizontal struggles of everyday life.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:31 Discussing God's Steadfast Love

02:47 Reading and Reflecting on Lamentations 3

04:17 Applying God's Steadfast Love in Counseling

07:05 Encouraging Counselees with Biblical Truths

13:22 After Session Assignments and Practical Applications

19:17 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC Resource

EP. 186 Counseling Through God's Attributes: God Is Present And Active W/Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy continue their mini-series on counseling through God's attributes, focusing on omnipresence. They discuss the importance of God's omnipresence, especially in counseling settings, drawing from Isaiah 41:10. They emphasize that God's always-present nature offers both comfort and conviction, reminding individuals they're never alone in their struggles. Shauna shares her personal journey as a biblical counselor, highlighting how key scripture verses have guided her and can be used in counseling sessions. The episode rounds off with practical after-session assignments, including scripture memorization and reflective worship music to reinforce the comforting truths about God's constant presence.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:24 Introducing the Counseling Mini-series
00:38 Exploring God's Omnipresence
01:09 The Importance of Key Scripture Verses
02:41 Isaiah 41:10 - God's Promises
04:25 Understanding God's Presence
07:22 Practical Applications in Counseling
15:41 Encouragement and Worship
19:17 Conclusion and Future Topics

Episode Resources
Counseling Through God's Attributes

EP. 185 Counseling Through God's Attributes: Anchoring Your Heart & Mind in God's Peace W/Author Shannon McCoy

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the host is joined by Shannon K. McCoy, an experienced biblical counselor, to discuss the topic of God's peace amidst life's anxieties from her contribution to the ABC Resource, Counseling Through God's Attributes. Shannon shares her life transition from San Diego, California to Spartanburg, South Carolina and her career as a cytology lab manager. The conversation delves into the heightened anxiety and how biblical counseling can address it by focusing on Philippians 4:6-9. They emphasize that peace is an active process tied to trust and obedience in God. Shannon highlights practical counseling techniques, such as daily scripture focus and thought journaling, to help individuals reframe their anxiety in light of God's character and promises.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:55 Shannon's Background and Journey
03:40 Discussing God's Peace and Anxiety
08:26 Practical Steps for Counseling
18:35 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions:
Counseling Through God's Attributes

EP. 184 Counseling Through God's Attributes: God's Strengthening Comfort W/Ellen Dykas

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, host Mike welcomes guest Ellen Dykas, an ABC partner from Harvest USA. Ellen discusses the vital topic of 'God as Comforter' in biblical counseling, specifically referencing 2 Corinthians 1:3-6. The episode not only delves into Ellen's background and her work in discipleship and counseling but also offers a practical guide for counselors on integrating the concept of divine comfort into their sessions. Ellen emphasizes the importance of understanding God's comfort, engaging in meaningful dialogue with counselees, and applying Scripture to help those dealing with pain and suffering. The episode is a rich resource for both current counselors and those in training.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:33 Guest Introduction: Ellen Dykas
01:15 Ellen's Background and Ministry
03:09 God's Comfort in Counseling
06:42 Applying God's Comfort in Counseling Sessions
16:44 After Session Assignments and Reflections
20:48 Final Encouragement and Closing Remarks

Episode Mentions

EP. 183 Counseling through God's Attributes – EL ROI: The Living One Who Sees Me W/Betty-Anne Van Rees (Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition)

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael is with guest, Betty-Anne Van Rees. Betty-Anne, a key member of the Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition, shares insights on using God's attributes, particularly God's all-seeing nature (El Roi), to guide counseling sessions. The conversation explores the significance of knowing God personally, using the story of Hagar from Genesis 16:1-14, and provides practical applications for counselors. The episode highlights the importance of helping counselees see God's care and encourages the use of the 'Counseling Through' resource for both personal growth and enhancing counseling methodologies.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:34 Betty-Anne's Background and Ministry

01:17 Counseling Through God's Attributes Miniseries

02:29 Focus on God's Attribute: El Roi, The All-Seeing

03:55 Application of Hagar's Story in Counseling

12:36 Reflection Questions and Practical Assignments

21:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Resources

Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC Res

EP. 182 Counseling through God's Attributes–Immutable: Our Unchanging God W/Pastor Jesse Pirkle –Soul Care Pastor at Southern Hills Church–

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike sits down with Jesse Pirkle from Southern Hills Church in Carrollton, Georgia, to discuss the concept of God's immutability. They explore how understanding God's unchanging nature can be a powerful tool in counseling, especially for individuals struggling with assurance, doubt, and trust issues. Jesse shares insights from his own ministry and counseling experiences, emphasizing the importance of scripture, singing, and practical assignments in helping counselees grasp this theological attribute. This episode offers a valuable resource for counselors looking to integrate biblical truths into their sessions.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
00:49 Introducing the Miniseries on Counseling Through God's Attributes
01:58 Focusing on God's Immutability in Counseling
03:17 Scriptural Foundations of God's Immutability
04:11 Practical Applications in Counseling Sessions
10:35 Homework and Continued Learning
17:59 Engaging the Mind and Heart in Counseling
22:31 Addressing Assurance and Doubt in Counseling
25:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Counseling through God's Attributes - ABC RES
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy - Mark Vroegop
Southern Hills Church - Jesse Pirkle

EP. 181 Speak the Truth's Most Downloaded Episode Ever: Broken Cisterns: Exposing Functional Idolatry Jer. 2:11-13 - Counseling through Bible Narratives W/Pastor Jesse Pirkle

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode hosts, Mike and Shauna are joined by our special guest, Jesse Pirkle, Soul Care Pastor at SouthernHills Church to continue our mini-series, Counseling Through Bible Narratives Old Testament. Jesse Discusses how he uses his growth assignment of Jeremiah 2:11-13 to expose functional idolatry with counselees, both in-session, and out-of-session.

Episode Resource:
Counseling Through Bible Narratives - ABC RES

EP. 180 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024 - Unpacking Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) with a Biblical Lens W/Counseling Director Beth Claes

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike dives into the topic of narcissistic personality disorder within their ongoing mini-series on diagnostic and statistical diagnoses. Joined by Beth Claes, they explore the distinction between DSM-defined narcissistic personality disorder and general cultural narcissism. The discussion emphasizes the importance of viewing such psychological labels through a biblical lens, considering self-absorption and selfishness as challenges addressed by the gospel. The episode encourages believers to carefully navigate relationships with those displaying narcissistic behaviors, seeking wise counsel and fostering health and reconciliation in a Christ-centered manner.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:20 Narcissistic Personality Disorder Overview

01:10 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism

03:43 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism

05:37 Relational Dynamics and Narcissism

12:01 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Beth's Blog

EP. 179 Most Downloaded Episode of 2023 – Reclaim Your Marriage: Grace for Wives Who Have Been Hurt by Pornography W/Author's Jenny and Curtis Solomon

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Shauna and Mike welcome Curtis and Jenny Solomon to discuss their new books, 'Redeem Your Marriage' and 'Reclaim Your Marriage.' The Solomons explore how their books address the impact of pornography on marriages, offering support for both the offending and hurt parties. They delve into the process of writing their books, sharing personal insights and struggles, and emphasize the importance of lament and genuine repentance. The discussion also covers practical advice for biblical counselors and pastors on how to use the books as resources for couples and even touches on parenting strategies to protect children from the influences of pornography.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Book Review Series Launch

00:48 Meet the Guests: Curtis and Jenny Solomon

01:09 Curtis Solomon's Background and Roles

02:11 Introducing Jenny Solomon

03:13 Discussing the Books: Redeem Your Marriage and Reclaim Your Marriage

04:17 Challenges and Joys of Writing

09:01 The Importance of Lament in Healing

11:06 Addressing Misconceptions: Don't Blame Yourself for His Sin

15:58 The Role of the Spouse as an Ally

19:34 Creating a Safe Home Environment

20:15 Parenting Tips for Navigating Digital Dangers

22:55 Engaging in Open Conversations with Children

24:16 The Importance of Both Parents in Sex Education

25:48 Teaching Modesty and Privacy to Children

27:24 Healthy Cross-Gender Relationships

31:08 Using the Book in Counseling and Church Settings

38:12 Writing the Book: Inspirations and Challenges

40:16 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Episode Mentions
Curtis's Book for Husbands
Jenny's Book for Wives

Lament References:
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy
God's Healing for Life's Lessons

Counseling & Consulting
Solomon Soul Care

Training & Equipping
Southern Seminary - Biblical Counseling Concentration Degree

EP. 178 Most Downloaded Episode of 2022: Freedom in Forgiveness From Gen. 50:15-21 Counseling Through Bible Narratives Mini-Series W/Andrew Dealy From Austin Stone Counseling

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this engaging episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and Shauna introduce and discuss the importance of biblical truths in counseling and discipleship. They welcome Andrew Dealy from Austin Stone Community Church, who elaborates on using scripture, specifically the story of Joseph from Genesis, to guide counseling practices. The conversation delves into themes of forgiveness, patience, and God's sovereignty in suffering, highlighting practical steps for counselors to apply in various scenarios. Andrew also shares insights about his roles in his church, training programs for counselors, and an upcoming podcast series focused on handling emotions biblically.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:32 Counseling Through Psalms and Collaboration
02:44 Introducing Andrew and His Roles
06:53 The Importance of Forgiveness in Counseling
07:14 Exploring Joseph's Story of Forgiveness
14:41 Practical Questions on Forgiveness
23:57 Joseph's Remarkable Response
24:47 Understanding Forgiveness
26:16 Counseling Through Suffering
28:06 The Role of Patience in Counseling
34:27 Defining People Beyond Their Wrongs
39:43 Practical Steps for Counselors

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through Bible Narratives

EP. 177 Most Downloaded Episode of 2021: The Gospel in Counseling Part 2 - Applying The Gospel In Counseling Situations

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth', Michael is joined with Peter Escue to discuss the pivotal role of the gospel in counseling, emphasizing its application in various life struggles. Covering part two of their 'Gospel in Counseling' series, they explore how biblical truths provide hope and guidance for individuals feeling the weight of the Christian life, uncertainty about salvation, bitterness, and more. They delve into issues like suffering, sin, lack of spiritual maturity, and the ever-present need for hope, guiding listeners on how to apply gospel principles skillfully and compassionately in counseling scenarios.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:40 Recap of Gospel in Counseling Part One

02:09 Addressing the Challenges of Christian Life

04:19 Assurance of Salvation and Freedom in Christ

05:01 The Importance of Forgiveness

09:16 Spiritual Maturity and Sanctification

11:36 Understanding Suffering in the Christian Life

14:33 Understanding the Broken World and Personal Sin

15:11 The Importance of Applying Theology in Counseling

15:42 The Reality of Suffering and the Gospel

17:50 Hope in Christ Amidst Suffering

21:55 The Value of Individuals in God's Eyes

23:10 The Gospel's Call to Higher Goals and Changed Behavior

26:01 Summary and Encouragement for Counselors

Episode Mentions
The Gospel in Counseling Part 1

EP. 176 Most Downloaded Podcast of 2020: Heart of the Matter - A Counseling Tool That Helps Expose Deceptive Thoughts, Desires, and Habits

Association of Biblical Counseling — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

This episode of 'Speak the Truth' originally aired back in 2020 during the beginning of COVID and features an in-depth discussion on the methodology of biblical counseling. Hosts discuss the importance of examining desires, thoughts, emotions, and actions using a tool called 'The Heart of the Matter' series. Jeremy, joining via Bluetooth, explains this resource provided by the Association of Biblical Counselors, which helps counselees analyze their hearts through a biblical lens. Practical examples and guidelines are shared to aid counselors and discipleship leaders in guiding individuals toward a scriptural understanding of their responses and behaviors.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:53 Introducing the Topic: The Heart of the Matter Series

01:32 Nature vs. Nurture: A Biblical Perspective

02:36 The Heart's Role in Counseling

04:06 Using the Heart of the Matter Log

05:37 Counselor and Counselee Insights

07:25 Practical Applications and Examples

17:38 Understanding Desires and Idolatry

22:38 Habits and Their Impact on the Heart

25:04 Conclusion and Resources

Episode Mentions

Equip U Series - Heart of the Matter Resource (This resource is available to ABC Members - if you're not a member, become one)
A Theology of Christian Counseling - Jay Adams
You Are What You Love - James K. A. Smith

EP. 175 One Hundred Episodes Later: The Power of the Psalms in Counseling W/Pastor John Henderson from the 2020 Called to Counsel Conference

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

This episode of 'Speak the Truth' is recorded live from the 2020 Call to Counsel Conference. Hosts engage in an insightful discussion with John Henderson, focusing on the significance of the Psalms in biblical counseling. They explore how the Psalms provide language and comfort for various human struggles such as anxiety, depression, and anger. John highlights the importance of the personal ministry of the Word and its application in one-on-one counseling. The conversation also delves into practical tips for pastors and counselors on integrating scriptural truths into counseling sessions effectively, emphasizing the value of patience, transparency, and God-centered guidance. The episode underscores the richness of the Old Testament and encourages listeners to see the Bible as a practical tool for addressing life's deep-rooted issues.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:21 Conference Setting and Livestream

00:36 Panel Discussion Highlights

01:42 Introducing John Henderson

02:47 Pre-Conference and Counseling Through Psalms

03:56 Creating a Psalms Counseling Resource

05:20 The Power of Psalms in Counseling

07:02 Practical Applications of Psalms

09:00 Encouragement and Comfort in Psalms

14:18 Using Psalms as Prayers

16:24 Struggling and Isolating from the Lord

16:52 Engaging with Scripture Practically

17:07 Running to the Lord in Sinfulness

17:14 Psalm 130: Crying Out from the Depths

17:51 Forgiveness and Redemption in the Psalms

20:00 Old Testament Anticipation of the Messiah

23:13 Encouragement for Pastors in Soul Care

27:54 Jesus' Ministry of Personal Interaction

30:21 Paul's Ministry and Addressing Church Issues

31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Counseling through the Psalms

EP. 174 Learning to Listen: Essential Skills for Every Counselor W/Author Joseph Hussung

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Mike sits down with Joseph Hussung, the Director of Ministry Partnerships and Recruitment at Fieldstone Counseling, to discuss his new book, 'Learning to Listen.' Released in late March, the book is a significant contribution to the biblical counseling community. Hussung explains his journey, professional background, and motivations for writing the book. The conversation delves into the book's structure, emphasizing the importance of listening, empathy, and connecting with others in a counseling setting. Key themes include the purpose, posture, and practicalities of listening, along with overcoming sin-induced barriers. Hussung also introduces his GRACE acronym—Gaze, Relax, Align, Connect, Engage—as a guideline for effective listening. He highlights practical ways to close the gaps in context, values, and perspectives between counselors and counselees. The episode concludes with tips for purchasing the book and a call for listeners to send in future topics for discussion.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Special Guest Introduction: Joseph Hussung
01:05 Joseph's Background and Experience
02:17 The Inspiration Behind 'Learning to Listen'
03:59 Book Structure: Purpose, Posture, and Practice of Listening
05:50 Connecting Love, Empathy, and Listening
08:09 The Impact of Sin on Listening
11:18 Jesus' Heart and Our Heart in Listening
11:53 Practical Listening Skills: The GRACE Acronym
14:39 Addressing Gaps in Listening
18:54 Active Listening and Responding
25:51 Conclusion and Book Promotion

Episode Mentions
Learning to Listen Book
Fieldstone Counseling

EP. 173 Finding Light in the Darkness: Matt King's Story and the Mission of Broom Tree Care

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Mike interviews Matt King, the executive director of Broom Tree Care, at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Canada Conference. The conversation centers on Broom Tree Care's mission to provide biblical counseling and resources to those in need. Matt shares his personal testimony of experiencing a life-altering medical crisis in 2019, which led him to a profound understanding of God's presence even in the darkest moments. The discussion explores the paradoxical nature of light and darkness in the biblical context, emphasizing that God uses both to shape and sanctify His followers. Matt also discusses the practical resources Broom Tree Care offers and extends an invitation for collaboration to expand their outreach.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:34 Special Guest: Matt King from Broom Tree Care
01:23 The Mission and Vision of Broom Tree Care
05:25 Matt King's Personal Testimony
09:38 The Darkest Moments and Finding Light
19:24 Hope and Healing: Resources and Contact Information
22:18 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Episode Mentions:
Broom Tree

Email Matt: info@broomtreecare.com

EP. 172 ABC Helping Equip Canada: Creating and Implementing a Sustainable Care Framework in the Local Church W/Nathan Penny

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the hosts discuss their experiences at Hope Bible Church in Oakville, Ontario and their participation in a biblical counseling conference. They are joined by Nathan Penny, Pastor of Soul Care Ministries at Hope Bible Church. The conversation revolves around the development and expansion of the biblical counseling movement in Canada, the current state of biblical counseling across Canadian provinces, and the importance of training and equipping leaders to create a sustainable care framework within churches. Nathan highlights the unique challenges and successes of implementing a biblical counseling culture in a large church and underscores the importance of teamwork, including the pivotal role of women in the ministry. The episode also touches on the broader vision of the Biblical Counseling Coalition in Canada to ensure local access to biblical care and counseling and the importance of personal health and fitness for ministry effectiveness.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:41 Guest Introduction: Nathan Penny

00:48 Biblical Counseling Movement in Canada

03:24 Challenges and Isolation in Counseling

05:04 Conference and Resource Sharing

06:26 Equipping and Training at Hope Bible Church

09:40 Addressing Counseling Needs and Reevaluation

12:59 Creating a Culture of Care in the Church

14:00 Empowering Women in Ministry

14:40 The Power of Teamwork in Counseling

16:15 Training Together for Effective Ministry

18:19 Starting a Counseling Process

19:49 Vision for Biblical Counseling in Canada

25:07 The Importance of Health and Fitness for Ministry Leaders

27:23 Trusting God with Our Insufficiencies

28:46 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Episode Mentions
Hope Bible Church
Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition
Equipped to Counsel Curriculum

EP. 171 Pioneering Biblical Counseling in Canada – Mobilizing the Local Church W/Betty-Anne Van Rees

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, the hosts are reporting from Ontario at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Canada Conference. They highlight the pioneering efforts of individuals spearheading biblical counseling initiatives in Canada. Emily introduces Betty-Anne Van Rees, a biblical counseling pioneer from Cambridge, Ontario. Betty-Anne shares her journey into biblical counseling, originating from her personal trials and need for help after her husband's death. Her story speaks to the importance of the church's role in providing support and counseling through biblical teachings. The episode also discusses the interconnectedness of small churches in Canada, training initiatives, and the ongoing efforts to equip churches to better serve their communities.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:34 Conference Highlights and Pioneering Efforts in Canada
01:55 Betty-Anne Van Rees: A Journey into Biblical Counseling
03:30 The Impact of Personal Tragedy and Finding Help
04:58 Discovering Biblical Counseling and Its Importance
07:50 Challenges and Growth in Biblical Counseling
10:47 Mobilizing the Church in Canada
16:00 The Role of Training and Community Support
21:03 Encouragement and Closing Remarks

Episode Mentions
Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition

EP. 170 Equipping the Next Generation of Biblical Counselors: ABC's ETC Curriculum at Heritage College W/Jeemin Moon

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 16:13:20 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the team is joined by special guest, Dr. Jeemin Moon, professor and director of the Biblical Care and Counseling Ministry at Heritage College and Seminary in Cambridge, ON. The conversation focuses on Heritage College's new bachelor's degree program and graduate certificate in biblical counseling, their partnership with the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC), and the implementation of the Equipped to Counsel (ETC) curriculum. They also highlight the impact and growth of biblical counseling education in Canada and discuss how individuals can get involved and benefit from these educational opportunities.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:58 Special Guest Introduction: Dr. Jeemin Moon

01:20 Heritage College's Biblical Counseling Program

03:14 Partnership with ABC and Program Details

10:15 Encouragement for Future Biblical Counselors

14:27 Online and In-Person Course Options

15:29 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Episode Mentions:
Jeemin Moon Joins Heritage
Heritage College & Seminary

EP. 169 Waiting isn't a Waste W/Author Mark Vroegop - Embracing the Spiritual Discipline of Waiting on the Lord

Mike Van Dyke — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:20:49 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael engages in a profound discussion with Mark Vroegop about his latest book, 'Waiting Isn't a Waste: The Surprising Comfort of Trusting God and the Uncertainties of Life.'

Vroegop explains his motivation behind writing the book, emphasizing his struggle with waiting and the spiritual growth that comes from it. The conversation touches on the biblical importance of waiting, its role as a spiritual discipline, and how it can transform frustrating life gaps into opportunities for deeper faith. They also explore the idea of intentional waiting and how it can be strategic in both personal and pastoral contexts.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:23 Guest Introduction: Mark Vroegop
00:46 The Inspiration Behind 'Waiting Isn't a Waste'
02:01 The Spiritual Discipline of Waiting
03:50 Practical Applications of Waiting
08:20 Biblical Foundations of Waiting
12:13 Encouragement for Counselors and Pastors
16:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Waiting isn't a Waste
YouTube Episode

EP. 168 Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ W/Jonathan Holmes

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 30 May 2025 14:42:21 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael interviews author Jonathan Holmes at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Canada Conference. They discuss Jonathan's latest book, 'Grounded in Grace,' which provides insight into helping children build their identity in Christ. The conversation covers the importance of parents proactively discipling their children in an age where external influences often shape identity. Jonathan emphasizes the significance of grounding identity in biblical truth, especially in light of societal challenges related to mental health, sexual orientation, and gender confusion. This practical guide is recommended for parents, youth leaders, and counselors.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:28 Guest Introduction: Jonathan Holmes
00:41 Discussing 'Grounded in Grace'
02:42 Identity and Emotions in Kids
04:14 Core Areas of Identity Struggles
05:47 Parental Role in Identity Formation
07:35 Spiritual Warfare and Identity
09:27 Encouragement for Parents and Ministers
13:09 Closing Thoughts and Recommendations

Episode Mentions
Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build their Identity in Christ
Jonathan's Amazon Page with All His Books

EP. 167 Remade: Embracing Your Complete Identity in Christ W/Pastor and Author Paul Tautges

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Fri, 23 May 2025 14:03:04 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' hosts Michael and Shauna are joined by special guest Paul Tautges at the Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition Annual Conference. They discuss the themes of identity, sanctification, and counseling within the Christian faith. Paul shares insights from his latest book, 'Remade,' which emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ through three lenses: saint, sinner, and sufferer. The conversation covers the apostolic pattern of discipleship, the significance of talking to oneself, God, and others, and practical tips for pastoral care and counseling. Paul also hints at upcoming projects, including a new children's book and other works in progress.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:21 Special Guest Introduction: Paul Tautges

01:04 Conference and Book Discussion: 'Remade'

02:43 Paul's Writing Discipline and Ministry Insights

06:11 The Triple Lens Perspective in Counseling

11:28 Practical Applications and Reflections

20:52 Paul's Other Works and Resources

24:41 Conclusion and Farewell

Episode Mentions
REMADE
Counseling One Another
Anxiety - 31 Day Devotional
Paul's Amazon Page
Counselingoneanother.com

EP. 166 Encouragement for Aspiring Biblical Counselors W/Counseling Director Beth Claes

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 16 May 2025 17:36:08 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael is live from the Salem Heights Made to Minister Conference in Salem, Oregon. Joined by guest Beth Claes from New Heights Church, Vancouver, Washington, they discuss the common inquiries they receive regarding biblical counseling. Claes shares her experience transitioning from a secular psychology background to biblical counseling and addresses questions on educational pathways, certification options, and career prospects in this field. They emphasize the importance of integrating biblical counseling within the church and exploring collaborative approaches among churches. The conversation aims to offer practical advice and encouragement for those considering or pursuing a career in biblical counseling.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:24 Live from the Made to Minister Conference

01:01 Interview with Beth Claes

01:05 Beth's Journey from Psychology to Biblical Counseling

01:58 Inquiries and Guidance on Biblical Counseling

05:34 Opportunities and Challenges in Church Counseling Ministries

11:11 Encouragement for Aspiring Biblical Counselors

13:12 Collaborative Efforts in Church Counseling

19:40 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Episode Mentions:
New Heights Church
Beth's Blog
Gospel Coalition Article - Why I Switched Careers from Psychologist to Biblical Counselor
Consulting with Michael
Enroll in Our Level 1 Equipped to Counsel Class - begins in September
Enroll in Our Level 2 Equipped to Counsel Class - begins in August

EP. 165 Exploring Union with Christ: Implications Towards a Counseling Methodology - W/Jason Kovacs

Mike Van Dyke — Sat, 10 May 2025 11:55:24 -0500

Exploring Union with Christ: Implications for Counseling and Beyond

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael engages with Jason Kovacs from the Gospel Care Collective at the 2025 Made to Minister Conference. They discuss the transformative power of knowing Christ, focusing on the foundational truths of Biblical Counseling, particularly the doctrine of Union with Christ and its implications for counseling. Kovacs shares insights about his ministry, the importance of Christ's presence in our lives, and how understanding our union with Christ can bring hope and perseverance in the counseling process. The conversation delves into the challenges and theological depths of suffering, providing encouragement for both counselors and counselees.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:34 Guest Introduction: Jason Kovacs
00:54 Foundational Truths for Biblical Counseling
02:26 Union with Christ: Personal Insights
03:57 Implications of Union with Christ in Counseling
09:10 The Counselor's Perspective
11:49 The Role of Suffering and Hope in Counseling
22:03 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Episode Mentions
Gospel Care Collective
Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition

EP. 164 Navigating Church Hurt and Spiritual Abuse with W/Tim St. John Counseling Pastor at Lighthouse Community Church

Mike Van Dyke — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcomes Tim St. John, the counseling pastor at Lighthouse Community Church in Torrance, California. Podcasting from the Made to Minister Conference 2025, they discuss the prevalent issue of church leadership failures and the deep wounds they leave. Tim shares insights into his work in a church with a robust biblical counseling ministry and offers gospel-centered strategies for addressing church hurt and spiritual abuse. Highlighting the importance of sharing one's story, understanding the severity of the sin committed, and relying on Christ as the ultimate shepherd, the discussion provides listeners with practical advice and hope.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:53 Guest Introduction: Timothy St. John

01:38 Tim's Ministry and Counseling Approach

04:07 Challenges in Church Leadership and Counseling

06:22 Addressing Church Hurt and Spiritual Abuse

08:16 Gospel-Centered Strategies for Healing

13:31 Navigating Toxic Church Environments

23:11 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Wanting Training
Truth Renewed Ministries - Certification Training

Episode Mentions
Lighthouse Community Church

EP. 163 Reflecting Grace: Understanding Coping Strategies in Light of God's Character W/Kristin Silva Linder Author and Biblical Counselor

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:19:31 -0500

Exploring Biblical Approaches to Coping Strategies

In this episode of Speak the Truth, the host joins Kristin Silva Linder at the 25 May to Minister Conference in Salem, Oregon. Kristin discusses her breakout session on coping strategies and the importance of understanding God's character to replace flawed coping mechanisms. The conversation covers how biblical counseling can help individuals navigate their struggles by recognizing God's common grace and ultimate providence. They also explore practical steps for directing one's heart towards spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God's love and support.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:45 Guest Introduction: Kristin Silva Linder

01:08 Coping Strategies and God's Character

03:55 Exploring Biblical Counseling

07:21 The Role of Common Grace

14:01 Practical Applications and Encouragement

26:43 Final Thoughts and Closing

Episode Mentions
Kristin Silva Linder - Author & Biblical Counselor
Made to Minister Facebook Page

EP. 162 Cancer Care Ministry: Support, Hope, and Healing W/Pastor Justin Greene and Mary Young from Salem Heights Church

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:26:44 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' listeners are invited to register for the upcoming ABC Call to Council conference. Mike is joined with Justin Greene and Mary Young, both cancer survivors, discuss their newly launched Cancer Care Ministry at Salem Heights Church. They share their personal journeys with cancer, the unique challenges faced by cancer patients, and how the new ministry aims to provide practical support, emotional comfort, and spiritual guidance. Key topics include the importance of humor, sharing stories, and maintaining hope amid suffering. Additionally, they emphasize the necessity for other churches to consider establishing similar support groups and provide resources for starting such initiatives.

00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement

01:39 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast

02:13 Introducing Justin Green and Mary Young

02:37 Justin's Cancer Journey

04:48 Mary's Cancer Journey

06:15 Launching the Cancer Care Ministry

16:33 The Oasis Cancer Support Groups

27:39 Encouragement and Resources for Churches

30:17 Conclusion and Contact Information

Episode Mentions
Our Journey of Hope - Cancer Resources

EP. 161 Embracing Biblical Hope - Navigating Suffering with Faith W/Pastor Pete Potloff: Insights from the Made to Minister Conference

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:56:09 -0500

Embracing Biblical Hope: Navigating Suffering with Faith

In this episode of Speak the Truth, the hosts discuss the transformative power of knowing Christ, featuring Pete Potloff, a recurring guest since 2019. Recorded at the Made to Minister Conference 2025 in Salem, Oregon, the conversation revolves around Pete's breakout session on discovering practical ways to help others experience and live out biblical hope in their daily lives. Highlighting themes from 1 Peter 1, they talk about the distinction between worldly hope and biblical hope, the enduring nature of hope rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the importance of counselors and pastors effectively communicating this to those they serve. The episode also teases upcoming content on how to use the Psalms for individuals who have experienced trauma, and underscores the ultimate value of relying on Christ as the ultimate treasure in the midst of life's trials and suffering.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:36 Guest Introduction: Pete Potloff

01:04 Made to Minister Conference Overview

02:12 The Concept of Living Hope

03:39 Biblical Hope vs. Worldly Hope

06:19 Practical Applications of Hope

14:09 Upcoming Conference on Trauma

18:38 Final Encouragement and Closing Remarks

Episode Mentions
Register for the ABC Conference

EP. 160 Marriage Counseling and Gospel-Centered Strategies W/Aaron & Angi Greene: Insights from the Made to Minister Conference

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:44:57 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike is Recording live at the Made to Minister Conference 2025, the episode highlights a conversation with Aaron and Angi Greene, experienced marriage counselors. They discuss their journey in marriage counseling, the importance of gospel-centered strategies, and practical tools for resolving conflicts in marriage. The Greene's share insights on transforming relationships through a deeper understanding of the gospel and how it impacts everyday life, emphasizing the significance of pursuing peace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in marriage counseling.

00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement

01:40 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast

02:12 Special Guests: Aaron and Angi Greene

03:08 Marriage Counseling Insights

10:32 The Gospel's Role in Marriage Counseling

15:28 Encouragement and Practical Tools for Marriage

23:10 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

EPISODE MENTIONS
Register for the ABC Conference
Our YouTube Channel

EP. 159 Who is the Association of Biblical Counselors Part 3: The Hope of ABC W/Jeremy Lelek

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 15:34:33 -0500

The Future and Hope of Biblical Counseling: ABC's Vision for Growth and Impact

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy provide information about the annual ABC Call to Council conference, showcasing its themes, plenary speakers, and specialized tracks including mental health and trauma. They reflect on the history and heart of the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC) and discuss the future direction of ABC, focusing on expanding the reach of biblical counseling and ensuring it permeates beyond traditional circles. The hosts share updates on various initiatives such as translating the curriculum into different languages, developing new resources, and introducing specialized training programs. They emphasize the importance of maintaining gospel-centered counseling and equipping the next generation to address modern challenges with theological integrity. Lastly, they encourage listeners to support ABC's mission through prayer and financial contributions.

00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement
00:28 Exciting Conference Tracks and Registration Details
01:27 Live Streaming and Podcast Introduction
02:15 Miniseries Recap and Focus on ABC's Future
02:56 Expanding Biblical Counseling Beyond Reformed Circles
05:59 Global Initiatives and Unity in Biblical Counseling
07:42 Special Projects and Resource Development
12:10 Equipping the Next Generation of Counselors
15:19 Gospel-Centered Discipleship and Addressing Modern Challenges
21:10 Encouragement and Ways to Support ABC's Mission

Episode Mentions
Register for the ABC Conference

EP. 158 Who is the Association of Biblical Counselors Part 2: The Heart of ABC W/Jeremy Lelek

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:19:41 -0500

The Heart of ABC: Mobalizing the Local Church in Equipping the Saints for Ministry

In this episode, the hosts discuss the upcoming ABC Call to Council conference, highlighting its unique track-based structure featuring plenary sessions by renowned speakers such as Paul Tripp, Jeremy Pierre, and John Henderson. They explain the heart of ABC, focusing on its mission to enlist, equip, enrich, and encourage believers to apply the gospel to all aspects of life. Distinctives of ABC's certification process, including its emphasis on the sufficiency of scripture, the autonomy of the local church, and practical training through the Equip2Counsel curriculum, are elaborated upon. The episode underscores the importance of equipping the saints for ministry within their local church contexts and the broader community.

00:00 Conference Announcement and Registration Details

01:47 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

03:04 Who is ABC? Exploring the Heart and Mission

04:14 ABC's Mission and Vision Explained

05:32 The Importance of Enlisting and Equipping

07:06 ABC's Certification and Training Programs

09:44 Distinctives of ABC's Conference and Certification

26:45 Growth and Impact of ABC's Training Centers

28:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Register for the ABC Conference
Check out ABC's Certification Pathway
Enroll in Level 1 with Truth Renewed

EP. 157 Who is the Association of Biblical Counselors Part 1: The History of ABC W/Jeremy Lelek

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:53:26 -0600

The Origins and Evolution of the Association of Biblical Counselors: A Journey of Faith and Resilience

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss the history, growth, and guiding principles of the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC). The conversation delves into the inception of ABC in 2003, spearheaded by a vision to provide a dedicated association for biblical counseling distinct from existing bodies. Founding member Jeremy elaborates on the early challenges, including a significant moral crisis and the support they received from prominent biblical counselors like David Pawlison and Paul Tripp. The episode highlights pivotal moments such as the 2009 symposium that revitalized ABC, the development of certification programs, and the impact of key figures like John Henderson and Shauna. The guiding principles of ABC—glorifying God, loving others, and upholding the sufficiency of Scripture—are emphasized throughout. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolution of biblical counseling within the church and the growth of ABC’s influence and organizational structure, attributing their success to divine faithfulness and communal support.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:39 Recap of Made to Minister Conference
01:39 Introducing the ABC Miniseries
02:23 The Inception of ABC
05:18 Early Challenges and Support
08:03 Turning Points and Growth
13:22 Certification and Local Church Engagement
21:53 Evolution of Biblical Counseling
24:31 Defining Moments in ABC's History
27:02 Conclusion and Gratitude

EP. 156 Unloved: The Rejected Saints God Calls Beloved W/Author Elyse Fitzpatrick

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:47:54 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak The Truth' podcast, hosts Michael and Jeremy, without their partner Shauna, engage in an enlightening discussion with beloved author and esteemed Sister in Christ, Elyse Fitzpatrick. They dive deep into her latest book, 'Unloved: The Rejected Saints God Calls Beloved,' exploring its profound themes. Elyse enlightens listeners on the common struggle among Christians to accept God's unconditional love, pushing against the merit-based mentality(meritocracy). She reflects on biblical figures considered heroes, exposing their flawed humanity to illustrate God's unwavering love for his own, regardless of their imperfections. Elyse also teases her forthcoming projects, including a refreshed edition of 'Give Them Grace' and a new Lenten devotional, 'The Unexpected King.' The conversation encapsulates the essence of grace, redemption, and hope in God's steadfast love.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:48 Special Guest: Elyse Fitzpatrick
01:08 Elyses' Recent Works and Projects
04:15 Writing Process and Challenges
05:36 Discussion on 'Unloved'
15:41 Understanding God's Love
20:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Resources
Unloved: The Rejected Saints God Calls Beloved
Idols of The Heart
Give Them Grace
The Afternoon of Life
Home

EP. 155 Discipleship in Counseling: Cultivating Spiritual Rhythms Pt.3 Praying the Bible - Leading Counselees in Prayer Rhythms

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:31:53 -0600

If you've been wanting to become a biblical counselor or want to grown as a disciplemaker, you can enroll in our class. It begins March 29th. The viritual class will be interacting with live training and teaching – learn more
Also, the ABC National Conference is just around the corner, May 1-3 register now

Cultivating Spiritual Rhythms: Praying the Bible

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike, Shuana and Jeremy continue their mini-series on discipleship and counseling by discussing the importance of prayer in spiritual growth. They focus on the challenges of developing a robust prayer life and share practical insights on praying the Bible, particularly using Psalms. Personal anecdotes and scriptural examples highlight the transformative power of prayer. The episode aims to equip and encourage individuals and counselors in making prayer an integral part of their spiritual disciplines.

00:42 The Challenge of Prayer
02:20 Personal Testimonies on Prayer
05:40 Praying Through the Psalms
14:56 Practical Tips for Counselors
21:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Resources
Praying The Bible - Donald Whitney

EP. 154 Discipleship in Counseling: Cultivating Spiritual Rhythms Pt.2 Bible Study Methods in Counseling W/Jeremy Lelek and Shauna Van Dyke

Mike Van Dyke, Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:39:51 -0600

--If you have been wanting to become a certified biblical counselor, Truth Renewed's next virtual certification training enrollment is now open--
Click HERE to begin the enrollment process! Class begins 3/29/25. Email training@truthrenewed.org with any questions.

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' hosts Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss the importance of cultivating spiritual rhythms in counseling and discipleship. They introduce and explain different Bible study methods like TAP (Truth, Application, Prayer) and HEAR (Highlight, Explain, Apply, Respond), emphasizing the significance of engaging with the scripture on both a vertical (with God) and horizontal (with others) level. They also explore the challenges of teaching Bible study methods to counselees and the transformative impact it can have on counselees.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:20 Overview of Spiritual Rhythms
01:00 Bible Study Methods: TAP and HEAR
02:39 Engaging with Scriptures: Vertical and Horizontal
04:49 Real-Life Applications and Challenges
05:59 The Role of Biblical Counselors
07:42 The Importance of Personal Bible Study
13:50 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement
18:02 Final Remarks and Contact Information

Episode Mentions

EP. 153 Discipleship in Counseling: Cultivating Spiritual Rhythms Pt.1 W/Jeremy Lelek and Shauna Van Dyke

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 16:24:07 -0600

This episode focuses on discipleship in counseling, emphasizing the importance of cultivating spiritual rhythms in these practices. Hosts Michael, Shuan, and Jeremy discuss their personal updates and the significance of Scripture in developing spiritual disciplines. They share practical methods and scripture references to help counselees establish and maintain spiritual rhythms. The conversation includes addressing the challenges counselees face, such as motivation and busyness, and the importance of follow-up and persistent guidance in counseling sessions. Key scripture passages like 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Ps. 19, and Col. 3:16 are discussed to illustrate the life-giving power of God's Word in the counseling process.

Are you wanting to go through level 1 certification training?
Truth Renwed's Virtual Spring Class Begins 3/29/25 - Enroll NOW!

ABC 2025 Called to Counsel National Conference

EP. 152 Virtually Bridging the Care Gap W/Brian Walker from Anchored Virtual

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:16:25 -0600

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' host Mike welcomes Brian Walker, Operations Director at Anchored Virtual, to discuss the services and mission of Anchored Virtual Biblical Counseling. Brian shares the origins of the ministry as an offshoot of Mark Inc. and its evolution into a virtual counseling service providing biblical and clinical counseling support. Listeners will learn about the methodology, counselor qualifications, and the importance of local church integration in the counseling process. The episode also covers logistical aspects such as time zone management, session structure, and how future biblical counselors can engage with Anchored Virtual.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:29 Meet Brian Walker from Anchored Virtual
01:11 The Genesis of Anchored Virtual
03:53 Virtual Counseling and Local Church Partnership
10:17 Counselor Credentials and Theological Backgrounds
16:14 Counseling Methodology and Goals
22:07 Encouragement for Aspiring Counselors
23:52 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Episode Mentions
Anchored Virtual
Mark Ink

EP. 151 Unpacking Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) with a Biblical Lens W/Counseling Director Beth Claes

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:08:18 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike explores Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) from a biblical counseling perspective with special guest Beth Claes. The discussion differentiates between the DSM-5 definition of NPD and cultural perceptions of narcissism. Key characteristics such as self-absorption, desire for admiration, and lack of empathy are analyzed alongside biblical teachings, framing narcissism as idolatry. The conversation highlights the challenges and importance of reconciliation and healthy conflict resolution in Christian relationships. Additionally, the episode addresses the complexities of navigating relationships marred by narcissistic behavior and advocates for wise counsel, prayerful engagement, and mentorship to balance recognizing dysfunction while offering hope for redemption through Christ.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:30 Discussing Narcissistic Personality Disorder

01:12 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism

03:52 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism

05:11 Challenges in Identifying Narcissism

06:05 Handling Relationships with Narcissists

07:40 The Misuse of Psychological Labels

09:50 Narcissism and the Gospel's Response

11:06 Engaging with Narcissistic Behaviors

13:08 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Beth's Blog

EP. 150 Unpacking Generalized Anxiety Disorder with a Biblical Lens W/Counseling Director Beth Claes

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:03:22 -0500

This episode of the Speak the Truth podcast, with special guest, Beth Claes, focuses on understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) through a biblical framework. They discuss the prevalence of anxiety in modern culture and how GAD is often a catch-all diagnosis for persistent anxiety not tied to specific situations. The hosts emphasize the importance of engaging with people who have these psychological labels and how to think about anxiety from a Christian perspective. Beth introduces the symptoms of GAD and explains how the Bible provides a complex and compassionate view of fearing emotions like anxiety, more than just physiological or experiential explanations. The conversation highlights the need to not merely rely on psychological descriptors but to incorporate biblical truths in addressing mental health issues. Listeners are encouraged to confront and understand their anxiety through reliance on God, fostering a more holistic approach to counseling in the church.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:25 Recap and Introduction to Anxiety

02:32 Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder

03:37 Symptoms and Personal Experiences

08:02 Biblical Perspective on Anxiety

11:26 Complexities and Biblical Framework

14:34 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

EP. 149 Unpacking Codependency with a Biblical Lens W/Counseling Director Beth Claes

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 16:10:45 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and special guest Beth Claes, a Counseling Director and biblical counselor, delve into the topic of codependency. Beth shares her insights from a background in psychology and biblical counseling, discussing how codependency manifests in relationships and how it is not a diagnosable disorder in the DSM. They explore the biblical framework for understanding codependency, identifying it as a form of 'fear of man' and misplaced identity. The conversation extends to practical advice on dealing with codependency within various relationships, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries and finding one's identity in God. Join them as they unpack the complexities of codependency and its implications for biblical counseling.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:24 Introducing Special Guest Beth Claes

01:27 Understanding Codependency

03:58 Biblical Perspective on Codependency

04:48 Addressing Codependency in Relationships

13:00 Challenges in Labeling and Misconceptions

18:41 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

22:17 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Episode Mentions
New Heights Church where Beth serves
Beth's Blog–Wrestled Faith
Beth's story from Psychologist to Biblical Counselor - Speak the Truth EP. 140

EP. 148 Closing the Discipleship Gaps: Fueling Life and Forming Ministries by Abiding in Jesus W/Robert Cheong

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:12:00 -0500

In this episode, Mike is joined by special guest, Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries to discuss various gaps in church discipleship and ministry, emphasizing the importance of personal and communal abiding in Christ. They highlight the 'faith gap' where individuals lack confidence in living out the gospel, and how it affects church programs, community, and leadership. Robert outlines personal challenges categorized into gaps in people's stories, hearts, and wants, which contribute to these faith gaps. The solution proposed focuses on prioritizing personal and communal abiding in Christ, which fuels life and forms ministry. Practical tips for addressing these issues in local churches are provided, with a call for churches to reimagine their ministry approaches around abiding in Christ.

Fall Hybrid Class Beginning in October 2024
Virtual Class: Level 1 Enrollment with Truth Renewed - Enroll Today

Episode Links
Gospel Care Ministries
Last podcast with Robert Cheong
Latest TGC Blog W/Robert Cheong: Pastor, Are the Gaps in Your Faith Affecting Your Ministry?

EP. 147 Unlocking Harmony in Marriage W/Rob Rodriguez: Encounter Ministries' New Curriculum

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 17:02:27 -0500

In this episode, host Mike discusses a unique opportunity for listeners to join Truth Renewed's hybrid Level One Certification class. He introduces a special guest, Rob Rodriguez from Encounter Ministries, who elaborates on his new eight-week marriage program. Rodriguez, a doctoral student and Director of Biblical Counseling, shares insights about his book and workbook that focus on fostering hope, influence, and fidelity in marriages. He also highlights the upcoming marriage encounter event in Lake Tahoe and how listeners can access these resources and join the program.

Episode Resources
Truth Renewed Level 1 Certification in September
Harmony In Marriage - Amazon
Encounter Ministries

00:00 Introduction and Invitation

00:48 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast

01:12 Introducing Rob Rodriguez and Encounter Ministries

01:57 Harmony in Marriage: Book and Resources

04:52 Deep Dive into Marriage Topics

08:21 Facilitator Guide and Group Dynamics

14:34 Upcoming Classes and Final Thoughts

EP. 146 Pursuing Redemption in Christ: The Gospel Recovery Network W/Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 18:49:15 -0500

In this episode, Mike announces an invitation to participate in Truth Renewed's hybrid certification class and introduces special guests Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith. They discuss the Gospel Recovery Network and its 'Steps' program, a comprehensive discipleship and recovery curriculum. Michael shares his journey in developing the program, its roots in Celebrate Recovery, and its eventual transformation. Brett adds his personal experiences with 'Steps' and its impact on his faith and ministry. They delve into the unique aspects of the program, emphasizing its theological foundation and practical application, along with its evangelistic potential. The episode also highlights the program's availability for licensing and training for churches, aiming to provide robust gospel-centered recovery solutions.

00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification
00:48 Welcome to the Podcast
01:23 Special Guests: Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith
03:11 Michael Snetzer's Journey and Gospel Recovery Network
05:00 Brett Smith's Story and Connection to Michael
11:49 Steps Program: Origins and Evolution
14:59 Steps Program: Structure and Impact
26:34 Evangelistic Potential of Steps
28:18 How to Get Involved with Gospel Recovery Network
32:11 Conclusion and Contact Information

Episode Resources
Citizens Church - Steps
Gospel Recovery Network
Charles Simeon Trust

EP. 145 Navigating Life with Psalm 25: A Conversation W/Robert Cheong

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth', Mike is joined by guest Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries, as he delves into his meditations on Psalm 25. They explore themes of trusting God, experiencing His steadfast love and faithfulness, and the importance of scripture in personal spiritual growth and church leadership. They emphasize the significance of abiding in Christ, sharing biblical insights with others, and finding comfort in God's Word through life's challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification

00:48 Welcome to the Podcast

01:09 Conference Highlights and Special Guest Introduction

01:36 Deep Dive into Psalm 25

02:24 Trusting God Through Life's Uncertainties

03:07 Experiencing God's Steadfast Love and Faithfulness

09:35 Encouragement in the Word and Community

11:15 The Importance of Opening the Word

14:52 Abiding in Christ and Walking Together

19:17 The Beauty of the Psalms

20:51 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Episode Resources
Gospel Care Ministries

EP. 144 From Crisis to Christ: The Impact of Encounter Ministries in Reno W/Richard & Shelli Wenschlag

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode Michael interview's Richard and Shelly Wenschlag, founders of Encounter Ministries, at the ABC Conference 2024. They discuss their ministry's journey from its origins, aimed at fostering deep relationships and connecting individuals with Christ, to becoming a nonprofit organization. The conversation covers the challenges faced in sustaining the spiritual high post-retreat, the importance of vulnerability in fostering connections, and the expansion of their ministry to multiple states. Additionally, they highlight their upcoming marriage encounters and ongoing efforts to integrate deeper counseling support in partnership with local churches.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:24 Meet the Founders of Encounter Ministries

01:12 The Origin and Mission of Encounter Ministries

02:45 The Impact of Vulnerability and Relationship Building

05:23 The Power of Testimony and Freedom in Christ

10:05 Challenges and Growth in Encounter Ministries

14:37 Post-Encounter Experience and Church Integration

19:52 The Role of Counseling in Healing and Growth

25:23 Marriage Encounter: Strengthening Relationships

29:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Encounter Ministries Website and Events

EP. 143 Biblical Counseling and Overcoming Addictions W/David and Krista Dunham

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Speak the Truth, recorded at the 2024 Called to Council Conference at Doxology Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas, Michael joins biblical counselors David and Krista Dunham from Michigan. David, a pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church, and Krista, a private practice biblical counselor, discuss their journeys into ministry and counseling. They delve into topics including the theological perspective on addiction, the concept of worship disorders, and their book 'Table for Two' which addresses overcoming eating disorders. The episode also highlights Krista's experiences in setting up her counseling practice and their forthcoming book on power dynamics in marriage.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:32 Meet the Dunham's: David and Krista

01:21 David's Journey into Pastoral Ministry

03:35 Krista's Path to Biblical Counseling

06:18 Writing 'Table for Two': A Personal Story

11:05 Understanding Addictions: A Theological Perspective

17:54 Encouragement for Aspiring Counselors

19:54 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion

Episode Mentions:
A Table for Two
Cornerstone Baptist Church

EP. 142 From Southern Seminary to Portland: Josh Conwell's Journey to Building a Biblical Counseling Ministry

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:35:46 -0500

In this episode of the Speak the Truth, Michael interviews Josh Conwell, Executive Director of Counseling at DOXA Collective in Southeast Portland. Josh shares his personal journey from growing up in a Southern Baptist household to discovering a transformational biblical faith through significant life challenges. He discusses his educational experience at Southern Seminary, his decision-making process for finding a local church, and his transition to Portland. Josh touches on his passion for biblical counseling, detailing his methods for integrating scripture into his counseling practice to offer hope and healing. The conversation also addresses the cultural and spiritual dynamics Josh encounters in Portland, especially the challenges of ministering in a predominantly secular and relativistic environment. Finally, Josh offers advice to current seminarians about their future in ministry, emphasizing the importance of prayer, community, and proactive planning.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:30 Meet Josh Conwell: Executive Director of DOXA Counseling Collective

01:16 Josh's Journey to Biblical Counseling

02:04 The Transformational Power of the Gospel

06:31 Choosing a Church in Louisville

10:21 From Louisville to Portland: A New Ministry

13:27 Challenges and Opportunities in Portland

21:39 Encouragement for Future Ministers

24:51 Doxa Counseling Collective: Vision and Growth

26:24 Conclusion and Contact Information

Episode Mentions
Southern MDiv - Biblical Counseling
DOXA Counseling Collective
Third Avenue Baptist Church
Clifton Baptist Church
Hinson Baptist Church

EP. 141 Experiencing Biblical Counseling and Supervision W/CCEF JBC Writer, Speaker, and Biblical Counselor - Kristin Silva Linder

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Experiencing Biblical Counseling with Kristin Silva Linder

In this episode of the 'Speak the Truth', the hosts welcome Kristin Silva Linder, a biblical counselor and writer based in Portland, Oregon. They discuss the joys and challenges of practicing biblical counseling in a region with fewer Christians compared to places like Texas. Kristin shares her journey into counseling, the cultural dynamics of Portland, and the importance of integrating biblical truths into counseling sessions. The conversation also highlights the significance of having supervision in counseling, as well as the necessity of spiritual disciplines among believers. Furthermore, Kristin talks about her contributions to the Journal of Biblical Counseling and how writing helps her sharpen her scriptural insights for counseling.

Time Stamps

00:26 Exploring Oregon's Unique Offerings

01:03 The Best Sandwich in Oregon

01:53 Weather and Scenery in Oregon

02:14 Continuing the Made to Minister Conference Series

02:31 Introducing Kristen Silva Linder

03:58 Kristin's Journey into Biblical Counseling

07:15 Challenges and Growth in Portland

09:24 Biblical Counseling in Different Regions

17:46 The Importance of Supervision in Counseling

19:26 Exploring Biblical Themes in Counseling

20:24 The Importance of Supervision in Counseling

21:24 Challenges and Benefits of Supervision

23:19 The Role of Humility in Counseling

27:46 Writing for Biblical Counseling Journals

31:08 Engaging Scripture Thematically in Counseling

33:12 The Importance of Spiritual Disciplines

34:49 Navigating Counseling in a Humanistic Culture

36:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

EPISODE MENTIONS
Taproot Restaurant
Coping Strategies: How Christ Fully Accomplishes What Our Flawed Strategies Imperfectly Attempt
Kristin Silva Publications
CCEF Blog
JBC Articles
Logos edition of JBC Articles

EP. 140 From Psychology Practice to Biblical Counseling Ministry in the Local Church W/Beth Claes

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 27 May 2024 02:00:00 -0500

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and Shauna are joined with special guest, Beth Claes continuing in the miniseries from the Made to Minister Conference 2024. Beth shares her profound journey from being a licensed psychologist in New York to becoming a biblical counselor in Washington state. She discusses how personal struggles, including her mother's battle with cancer, led her to conform her Christian faith with her professional life. Beth details her transition from traditional psychology to biblical counseling, aligning her practice with her faith. She also talks about developing a biblical counseling ministry at her church, the growth and responses it has received, and the impact of her previous training on her current work.

Episode Mentions:
Beth's blog - Wrestled Faith
New Heights Church where Beth Serves

EP. 139 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: Different Care Models, Same Mission W/Jonathan Holmes and Andrew Dealy

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 13 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Integrating Biblical Counseling in the Local Church

In this episode Mike and special guests, Jonathan Holmes and Andrew Dealy, focuses on integrating biblical counseling within local churches. Hosted without his co-host, Mike is at the made administer conference, featuring guests Jonathan Holmes of Fieldstone Counseling and Andrew Dealy of the Austin Stone Counseling Center. They discuss the importance of biblical counseling in churches, their personal journeys into counseling within a church context, and practical aspects of setting up and running counseling centers that are both clinically sound and deeply rooted in gospel principles. The podcast also touches on the challenges of maintaining a robust partnership between counseling centers and churches, ensuring community integration for those counseled, and how they care for their counselors. Key insights include the necessity of a community in healing, the value of counselors sharing their own struggles, and the concept of counseling as a temporary 'rest stop' on a longer journey of spiritual growth and community integration.

Episode Links
Jonathan's Books

EP. 138 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: Equipping Local Churches to Counsel in Their Communities W/Emily Dempster

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 06 May 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode Michael and Shauna are joined by special guest, Emily Dempster from Salem Heights Church in Salem Oregon discussing the importance of equipping local churches to provide biblical counseling in their communities. They talk about their experiences in training and supporting other churches, emphasizing the significance of starting small and growing over time. They share insights on the duration of training, the impact of care ministry, and the transformative nature of learning to apply the gospel in practical ways.

EP. 137 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: The Impact of a Counseling Ministry within the Local Church W/Pastor Pete Potloff

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:59:00 -0500

In this episode Michael is joined by special guest, Pete Potloff, executive pastor at Salem Heights Church, discussing the growth and impact of the counseling ministry within Salem Heights Church. They emphasize the importance of intensive discipleship, one another care, and how the ministry has transformed both individuals and the church community. They encourage starting small to initiate change and build a culture of care within the church.

EP. 136 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: Seeing Biblical Counseling as an Evangelistic Ministry W/Pastor Justin Greene

Mike Van Dyke — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:33:30 -0500

In this episode Michael is joined by Justin Greene, senior pastor of Salem Heights Church to discuss the transformational impact of viewing biblical counseling as a form of evangelistic ministry, emphasizing how equipping individuals in the church with biblical truths leads to profound changes in lives and communities.

Episode Mentions
Episode 30 W/Pastor Justin

EP. 135 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: Caring for the Care Givers W/Dave & Tara from Salem Heights Church

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode Michael is joined with special guests, Dave Hamlin and Tara Cox, Counseling Care Coordinators at Salem Heights church. They discuss their individual journeys leading to their current roles, the challenges and rewards of counseling ministry, and the importance of supporting and encouraging counselors. They emphasize the need to start small, adapt over time, and provide a space for counselors to process and connect with each other. The script aims to encourage and inspire other church leaders to prioritize care for their counselors.

Episode Mentions
Salem Heights Church

EP. 134 Prioritizing Care in the Local Church Miniseries: The Urgency and Priority of Biblical Counseling in the Local Church: In-depth Conversation W/Pastor Daniel Starnes

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke kicks off the new miniseries on prioritizing care in the local church with special guest, Daniel Starnes by discussing the process of establishing a care ministry within the church. They cover topics such as the importance of care within the church, the journey of developing biblical counseling, challenges faced, the role of liability and insurance, and the overall significance and impact of care ministries in nurturing and supporting church members.

Episode Resources
Liability Insurance for Counseling Ministries - Brotherhood Mutual

EP. 133 Analyzing Social Anxiety Disorder with a Biblical lens Part 3 W/Jeremy Lelek

Mike Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode the hosts continue the mini-series on social anxiety disorder. Mike and Jeremy discuss the intersection of sin and suffering, emphasizing the importance of including the physiological aspects of anxiety in counseling. They explore the idea of using the body as an act of worship and share examples from Scripture to illustrate the faithfulness of God in the face of anxiety. The hosts encourage counselors to recognize the honor and beauty of their role in helping people navigate through the struggle of anxiety.

Episode Resources
Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners: Love Others as God Loves Us - Michael Emlet

Watch Us on YouTube
Watch these episodes on YouTube

Interested in Level 1 Certification W/The Association of Biblical Counselors?
Truth Renewed Ministries

EP. 132 Analyzing Social Anxiety Disorder with a Biblical lens Part 2 W/Jeremy Lelek

Mike Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, The hosts talk about the diagnostic criteria for social anxiety disorder and explore how the fear of God can be integrated into the counseling process. They also discuss the importance of understanding God's presence, his role as a refuge, and the reconditioning of thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, they mention using a motivation log to help individuals suffering from social anxiety gather data and identify underlying emotions and desires.

Watch the episode on YouTube

Episode Resources
ABC Resources (Need to be a member to access the resource mentioned in the episode)
Christians Guide to Psychological Terms
When People are Big and God is Small

For more information on becoming a certified biblical counselor, please visit Truth Renewed

EP. 131 Analyzing Social Anxiety Disorder with a Biblical lens Part 1 W/Jeremy Lelek

Association of Biblical Counselors — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:40:00 -0600

In this episode, the hosts begin our new miniseries on social anxiety disorder. They provide an overview of the topic, discuss the cultural perspective of social anxiety disorder, and talk about their experiences with people who struggle with social anxiety. They also briefly touch on the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and its role in diagnosing mental health conditions. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding social anxiety disorder through a biblical lens and plan to explore the topic further in future episodes.

Episode Transcript

EP. 130 Analyzing The Cultural Response to Anxiety With a Biblical Lens Part 4 W/Jeremy Lelek - Goal Setting

Mike Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy continues the discussion on anxiety and how to move forward with setting goals for change.

EP. 129 Analyzing the Cultural Response to Anxiety With a Biblical Lens W/Jeremy Lelek Part 3

Mike Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy continues to analyze anxiety with a biblical lens by introducing his four "R's" in dealing with Anxiety. He starts with anxiety loop's that people find themselves in while they're struggling in anxiety. What is the perceived threat, the mental commentary, the physical discomfort, and then wha does one do, habitually, their control habit.

Episode Full Transcript

Watch the Episode on YouTube

EP. 128 Analyzing the Cultural Response to Anxiety With a Biblical Lens W/Jeremy Lelek Part 2

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy leads our discussion through analyzing the culture response to anxiety with a biblical lens. Jeremy discusses the dynamics of being embodied creatures responding to anxiety with a biblical lens that traverses the complex domains of being physically embodied, socially embedded, and spiritually embattled creatures with hearts that are given to worship. The complexity of these domains and the range of these domains are influencing one's response to anxiety, namely, our case study, Sally.

EP. 127 Analyzing the Cultural Response to Anxiety With a Biblical Lens W/Jeremy Lelek Part 1

Mike Van Dyke, Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy introduces the discussion with a case study about a young woman who struggles with obsessive compulsive disorder and is experiencing severe anxiety. Jeremy shares what would happen with Sally if she went through the current modern channels to receive help and then how, as a biblical counselor, this client, Sally would receive care.

EP. 126 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Pro. 13:20 Wisdom for Friendships W/Emily Dempster

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Michael wraps up our mini-series on "Counseling through Proverbs" with special guest, Emily Dempster, Counseling Training Coordinator at Salem Heights Church about "Wisdom for Friendships".

EP. 125 Counseling through Proverbs Series: Pro. 15:13 True Joy W/Associate Professor Lily Park

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest, Lily Park, Associate professor of biblical counseling at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to continue their "Counseling through Proverbs" series. Lily shares her contribution, "True Joy" and how she would use it in a counseling session.

Episode Mentions:
Dr. Park’s research interests include theological anthropology, marriage and family, abuse, and cross-cultural competencies. Dr. Park is the author of “The Authority and Sufficiency of Scripture for Biblical Counseling” in The Authority and Sufficiency of Scripture (Seminary Hill Press, 2022), “Biblical Counseling, the Church, and the Academy” in Biblical Counseling and the Church (Zondervan, 2015), “Speaking the Truth in Love” in Scripture and Counseling (Zondervan, 2014), and “Family Ministry, The Priority or A Priority” in Trained in the Fear of God (Kregel Academic, 2011). She has also contributed book reviews and short articles to The Journal of Discipleship and Family Ministry. Dr. Park has been a member of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors since 2007 and serves as a council member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition.

EP. 124 Counseling Through Proverbs: Pro. 4:20–27 Wisdom for When You've Been Wronged W/Pete Potloff Executive Pastor at Salem Heights Church

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host, Mike is joined by special guest, Pete Potloff to continue our Counseling through Proverbs series to discuss Pete's contribution, "Wisdom for When You've Been Wronged" from Pro. 4:20–27

Episode Callouts
Salem Heights Church
Previous Speak The Truth EP. 33 W/Pete Potloff

EP. 123 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Proverbs 7 - When Men Lack Sense W/Jesse Pirkle - Soulcare Pastor at Southern Hills Church

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode host, Mike Van Dyke, is joined by special guest, Jesse Pirkle to continue the counseling through the Proverbs series. Jesse shares his contribution from Pro. 7, "When Men Lack Sense". Helping men who struggle with sexual temptations.

EP. 122 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Pro. 22:4 - Seeking a Heart of Humility W/Shauna Van Dyke

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts Michael and Shauna continue in the "Counseling Through Proverbs" series with Pro. 22:4 - Seeking a Heart of Humility. They work through in-session and out-of-session, the truth about pride and the truth about humility, and how counselors can work through this resource with their counselees.

Episode Resource:
Counseling Through Proverbs

EP. 121 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Pro. 16 - Stewardship in Our Planning W/Shauna Van Dyke

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts Mike and Shauna, continue the mini-series, "Counseling Through Proverbs". This episode looks at Pro. 16 - Stewardship in Our Planning, where they consider five areas counselors can encourage and empower their counselees in setting goals by considering their perspective, purpose, plan, praying, and persisting for the glory of God.

Perspective is how we view our purpose which is the heart behind the plan that directs how we pray so we can persist for the glory of God.

Episode Resources

Counseling Through Proverbs

What's Best Next: How the Gospel Transforms the Way You Get Things Done

How to Get Unstuck: Breaking Free from Barriers to Your Productivity

EP. 120 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Proverbs 19 - Slowness to Anger W/Mike Van Dyke

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 29 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy continue their series discussion on "Counseling through Proverbs" where they walk through Pro. 19 and how they would use this Proverb in a counseling session, both in and out of session. What does it mean to overlook an offense? How do you overlook an offense and still confront conflict?

Episode Resource
Counseling Through Proverbs

EP. 119 Counseling Through Proverbs Series: Proverbs 1 W/Jeremy Lelek - Offering A Scriptural Grid for Journaling Wisdom and Insight

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 15 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss ABC's newest "Counseling Through" resource. Jeremy walks through a Scriptural grid provided by Pro. 1:1–7 for counselees to engage with insights and wisdom from God's Word. Proverbs 1:1–7 offers a process for journaling through Scripture and Jeremy shares the Scriptural method in his contribution to "Counseling through Proverbs", a new ABC counseling resource.

Resource Mentions:
ABC Store

EP.118 A Still and Quiet Mind: 12 Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts W/Author Esther Smith

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts Mike and Shauna are joined by special guest, Esther Smith, author of "A Still and Quiet Mind: 12 Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts". Esther Shares why she wrote this book and how, as counselors, we can personally practice these strategies and also practice them with our counselees in session.

Episode Notes & Resources:
Books:
A Still and Quiet Mind
But God, Wouldn't I Be More Useful to You If I Were Healthy? (Chronic Pain and the Christian Life)
Chronic Illness: Walking by Faith (31-Day Devotionals for Life)
The Whole Life: 52 Weeks of Biblical Self-Care

Resources:

Webinar with CTHN: https://christiantraumahealingnetwork.org/events/webinars-workshops/

Christian Trauma Counseling: https://www.christiantraumacounseling.com

meditation classes: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/340376414017

EP. 117 Reclaim Your Marriage: Grace for Wives Who Have Been Hurt by Pornography W/Author's Jenny and Curtis Solomon

Mike Van Dyke and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode hosts, Mike and Shauna are joined by authors, Jenny and Curtis Solomon to discuss their books, "Reclaim Your Marriage: Grace for Wives Who Have Been Hurt by Pornography" by Jenny and "Redeem Your Marriage: Hope for Husbands Who Have Hurt through Pornography" by Curtis Solomon. Jenny shares why she wrote this desperately needed resource for women and Curtis shares his contribution as a companion to Jen's book.

Featured Resources:
Curtis's Book for Husbands
Jenny's Book for Wives

Lament References:
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy
God's Healing for Life's Lessons

Counseling & Consulting
Solomon Soul Care

Training & Equipping
Southern Seminary - Biblical Counseling Concentration Degree

EP. 116 The Dynamic Heart in Daily Life W/Author Jeremy Pierre - Connecting Christ To Human Experience

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest, Jeremy Pierre to discuss his book, "The Dynamic Heart in Daily Life: Connecting Christ to Human Experience" Jeremy discusses what compelled him to write this book and then provides summaries for the three sections in his book which are:

The beauty of human experience: how the heart responds dynamically
The context of human experience: what the heart dynamically responds to
Theological application through counseling by Read, Reflect, Relate, and Renew

Episode Reference Links
Southern's Diploma Program
The Dynamic Heart in Daily Life: Connecting Christ to Human Experience
When Home Hurts: A Guide for Responding Wisely to Domestic Abuse in Your Church

EP. 115 2023 Called To Counsel Conference: Esteeming God's Grace in Counseling - Details on Tracks And Speakers

Mike Van Dyke and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode hosts, Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss all the details of The 2023 Called To Counsel Conference. We're excited about this year's conference with all of our speakers and new track introductions.

CALLED TO COUNSEL

April 27-29, 2023

Doxology Bible Church

Fort Worth, TX

Plenary Sessions

Esteeming God's Graces in Counseling

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace in time of need.

Hebrews 4:12-16

Plenary One: God's Word and Gaze in Life and Counseling (v.12-13) - Jeremy Lelek

Plenary Two: The Ascended Savior and Instilling Hope (v.14) - Jeremy Pierre

Plenary Three: The Heart of Christ in Our Weaknesses (v.15) - Tim Challies

Plenary Four: God's Sanctuary of Mercy and Grace (v.16) - John Henderson

Pre-Conference

Counseling through Proverbs

Pre-Conference 1: "Wisdom in Responding to Fools" - Brad Hambrick

Pre-Conference 2: "Discernment: A Matter of the Heart" - Alasdair Groves

Pre-Conference 3: "Growing in Discerning: Wisdom vs. Foolishness" - Julie Lowe

Pre-Conference 4: "Wisdom from Anger" - Mark Vroegop

Track Options

ABC offers specialized tracks taught by leading practitioners in the field. Each of the following tracks will include eight insightful sessions. Attendees will choose one track during registration, and will attend all sessions in that track throughout the duration of the conference.

Note: Track sessions are listed in the order that they will be delivered.

Track A - Holistic Soul Care

Objective: To provide attendees with a biblical perspective that targets both the physical and the spiritual dimensions of our makeup, and how both apply to counseling others. While the spiritual will always take precedence when it comes to biblical care, God has given us an abundance of research that helps us to understand how the brain, the heart, and the gut impact our emotional states. Therefore, ...

EP. 114 We're Back W/Jeremy Lelek – Discussion About Our Hiatus

Mike Van Dyke and Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss the reasons for their recent hiatus from recording new podcast episodes. Jeremy shares his road to recovery from COVID and Michael and Shauna share some recent developments in their lives.

Show Mentions
Southern Seminary Diploma
Called to Counsel ABC Conference

EP. 113 Broken Cisterns: Exposing Functional Idolatry Jeremiah 2:11-13 - Counseling Through Bible Narratives W/ Pastor Jesse Pirkle

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Resource:
Counseling Through Bible Narratives - ABC RES

EP. 112 Freedom in Forgiveness Gen. 50:15-21: Counseling Through Bible Narratives Mini-Series W/Andrew Dealy From Austin Stone Counseling

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 22:20:03 -0500

Episode Notes
In this episode, hosts Mike and Shauna are joined by special guest, Andrew Dealy from Austone Stone Counseling Center. Andrew walks through Gen. 50:15-21 applying freedom in forgiveness to a counseling session.

Episode Resources:
Counseling Through Bible Narratives Old Testament - ABC Resource
Austin Stone Counseling Center
Reforming Emotions Podcast

EP. 111 W/Pastor Rob Perry from Lifepointe Church - Raleigh: Rob's Pastoral Journey into Biblical Counseling

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 22 May 2022 23:33:10 -0500

Episode Notes:
In this episode host, Mike is joined by special guest, Rob Perry Pastor of online at Lifepointe Church in Raleigh, NC. Rob shares his journey of pastoral ministry into biblical counseling.

Books:
Revival Start Here - Dave Clayton
Relationships: a mess worth making - Lane & Tripp
How People Change - Tripp & Lane
Biblical Counseling Basics - Jeremy Lelek

Podcasts & Websites:
Making Disciples: Robby Gallaty
Discipleship.org
Christiancounseling.com - Certification Pathway
Lifepointe Church - Raleigh

EP. 110 From Pastoral Ministry to Chaplaincy and The Role of Biblical Counseling W/Pastor David Mills

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 09 May 2022 00:16:13 -0500

In this episode host, Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest David Mills to discuss the role of biblical counseling in the last 25 years of his ministry. From pastoring for over 25 years to moving into chaplaincy, David shares how biblical counseling has shaped his ministry in the church and as a chaplain.

Episode Links:
Hope Church

EP. 109 Counseling Through The Psalms: Psalm 77 - Helping Counselees Reorient Their Story Through God's Redemptive Story

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 01 May 2022 22:57:13 -0500

Show Notes:
In this episode hosts, Mike and Shauna are joined by special guest, Todd Hardin to discuss his contribution to the "Counseling Through The Psalms". An ABC Resource is designed to help counselors use the psalms in a session and out of session. With Psalm 77, Todd explains how he'd use it to help counselees reorient the scenes of their story into God's story with three movements of the text, how the psalmist recites his story, then remembering God's story and his faithfulness, and then the psalmist retells his story in light of God's story. Seeing the movements of the psalm will encourage counselees to see their story through God's story.

Show Resources:
The Cry of the Soul - Dan Allender

The Cry of the Soul: How Our Emotions Reveal Our Deepest Questions About God

Soul Physicians - Bob Kellemen

Soul Physicians: A Theology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction

Counseling through the Psalms - ABC Resource

EP 108. Counseling Through The Psalms Mini-Series: Psalm 27 - Counseling Misplaced Fear

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 10 Apr 2022 21:23:28 -0500

Episode Notes:

EP. 107 Counseling Through The Psalms Mini-Series: Psalm 71 - Applying God's Steadfast Faithfulness to Despondent Souls

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 21:56:28 -0500

Episode Notes:
In this episode hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss how they would use this Psalm in the counseling room - both in session and as a growth assignment.

Episode References:
Counseling Through The Psalms Book
Called To Counsel 2022 Conference Registration

EP. 106 Counseling Through The Psalms Mini-Series: Psalm 19 - Applying The Triune Revelation of God in Counseling

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 20 Mar 2022 17:16:39 -0500

In this episode hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy continue their mini-series, counseling through the Psalms. A verse by verse breakdown of Psalm 19. They discuss, as shown in the text, God's general, special, and applied revelation of himself and why this matters in the counseling room.

Episode Resources Mentioned:
Counseling Through The Psalms - ABC Resource
Reformed Systematic Theology Vol. 1 - Joel Beeke

Applied Revelation
- mentioned throughout chapters 10, 11, 12, 16, 23
- Ch. 25 - Applied Revelation for Practical Fruit

EP. 105 Counseling Through The Psalms Mini-Series: Psalm 139 - Applying God's Omniscience and Omnipresence in Anxiety

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 23:12:13 -0600

In this episode hosts, Mike & Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek are back to kick off this mini-series, "Counseling Through the Psalms" an ABC resource written to help counselors use the psalms in session or as growth assignments. In this episode, Jeremy covers how he'd use Psalm 139 in a counseling session to help a counselee struggling with paralyzing anxiety. How God's omniscience and omnipresence can be used to navigate anxiety.

Episode Resource:
Counseling Through The Psalms

EP. 104 Identities Collide: Homosexuality or Following Jesus W/Colten Taylor - Part 2

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 20:50:41 -0600

In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest, Colten Taylor to share his testimony from being a practicing homosexual to following Jesus Christ. In part 2 Colten shares how he experienced God's love through his people and not in the way the cultural narrative expresses. He shares God's gracious pursuit and his consequent faith in Jesus Christ. He concludes with what his life in Christ looks like now and the work that the Holy Spirit is doing in him now.

EP. 103 Identities Collide: Homosexuality or Following Jesus W/Colten Taylor - Part 1

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest, Colten Taylor to share his testimony from being a practicing homosexual to following Jesus Christ. In part 1 Colten shares the origin of his story of growing up, being sexually abused, and working through the confusion in his formative years. He navigates through the notion of being born with same-sex attraction what that meant in his experience and its physiological and psychological impact.

EP. 102 From The 2021 Called To Counsel Conference W/Adam Sandlin, Founder of Covenant Biblical Counseling: Licensure To Launching A Non-Profit Biblical Counseling Center

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 22:12:29 -0600

Episode Summary:
In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guest, Adam Sandlin, founder of Covenant Biblical Counseling to discuss how he pursued licensure, being an LPC-S, and launching his biblical counseling center, Covenant Biblical Counseling.

Episode Resources:
Covenant Biblical Counseling
Redeemer Church Denton
North Texas Christian Counseling

EP. 101 Live From 2021 ABC Called To Counsel Conference W/Robert n' Nate From Watermark Community Church: Marriage Enrichment(re|engage) & Recovery Ministry(re:generation)

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 22:00:00 -0600

In this episode host, Mike Van Dyke is joined with special guest, Robert n' Nate from Watermark Community Church to discuss two discipling ministries within Watermark, re|engage(marriage enrichment) and re:generation(recovery ministry), that have been fruitfully successful within Watermark and how they help equip the universal church with these two ministries. Robert n' Nate shares the history of the ministries, their nature and scope, and the pathway to help the local church be equipped with these ministries within the local church context - from building to growing the ministry, their availability in coming alongside church leaders to equip and execute these ministries. Check out these resources here at watermark resources.

Show resources:

watermark resources.

EP. 100 Live From ABC Called To Counsel Conference 2021 W/Robert & Karen Cheong - Restoration Story: Why Jesus Matters In A Broken World

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 21:15:30 -0600

Episode Notes:
In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guests, author and pastor, Robert Cheong and his wife, Karen Cheong to discuss his heart in writing his new book, "Restoration Story". We all have our own back story—our sometimes unconscious beliefs—that have been shaped by our families, relationships, and life experiences. Our stories shape the personal narratives we live out: “I am not loved.” “No one cares for me.” “I have to be better than everyone around me.” “How I look is the most important thing about me.” Our back story guides us in how we relate to God and others. But are these beliefs true? And how are they affecting our lives today? Cheong helps readers unpack their stories and learn to live out of God’s new story. Readers will discover how to retell their story out of who God is, what he’s done, and the call to love him and others. Learn how the dynamics of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation shape our present struggles, confirm our future hope, and ensure our ability to live in God’s power today. At the intersection of God’s story and your own, you’ll find that his love sustains you in your weariness, guides you in your confusion, and comforts you in your suffering. The story of his love will compel you to live for him. Restoration Story can also be used alongside Cheong’s Restore: Changing How We Live and Love Study Guide.

Episode Resources:
Restoration Story: Why Jesus Matters In A Broken World
Restore: How We Live And Love, Study Guide With Leader's Notes

EP. 99 Live From ABC Called To Counsel Conference 2021 W/Chris Moles - Men of Peace Course: Process from Information, Transformation, and Reformation

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 07 Nov 2021 22:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:
In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined by author, pastor, biblical counselor, special guest Chris Moles. Chris shares his genesis of entering into domestic abuse work as a pastor and how The LORD used it to develop the ministry of peaceworks and the men of peace self-paced course work. The Men of Peace Self-Paced Course is the compilation of all of Chris Moles’ past Men of Peace coaching content plus brand-new material. This course will walk men through the three-fold Men of Peace process of Information, Transformation, and Reformation, educating and guiding men who are ready to take ownership of their abusive behaviors and surrender themselves fully to the Lord in true and lasting repentance. Please be aware this course DOES NOT include a direct coaching component with Chris Moles. Instead, the Men of Peace Self-Paced Course is designed to be used within the context of an already established biblical counseling or coaching relationship, with the abusive man enlisting the discipleship and accountability support of a local counselor, pastor, or mentor. Once purchased, each course participant will have permanent access to all course materials.

Episode Resources:
chrismoles.org
Peaceworks Podcast
Men of Peace Self-Paced Course

EP. 98 Live from ABC Called To Counsel Conference 2021 W/Greg Wilson - When Home Hurts: A Guide For Responding Wisely To Domestic Abuse In Your Church

Mike Van Dyke, Greg Wilson — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

In this episode host, Mike Van Dyke is joined with special guest, author, and counselor, Greg Wilson to discuss his new book, "When Home Hurts: A Biblical Guide For Responding Wisely To Domestic Abuse for Your Church". Greg shares his heart for writing this book, his passion for the local church to be equipped from the pastoral level to the neighbor level. This book is intended to equip pastors, church leaders, and church members to respond with the heart of God to situations of domestic abuse that occur in their local church. Prioritizing the safety of the victim at all times, Jeremy Pierre and Greg Wilson seek to help you be the kind of church leader, church member, friend, parent, sibling, or neighbor who responds wisely. We want the church to be a new normal for those grown accustomed to abuse. A home that doesn’t hurt those inside, but instead welcomes them into the tender care of the Lord.

Split into three sections, When Home Hurts begins with an overview to provide a framework for understanding abuse and the people caught up in it, before moving on to advice on how to help in the short and long terms.

This very practical, pastoral book acknowledges the reality and the horror of domestic abuse, but also the reality and power of God to heal. It will be a helpful guide to anyone who suspects abuse within their church family but is unsure how to help without making things worse.

The five appendices at the end of the book offer helpful answers to difficult questions as well as additional resources.

Section 1 – How to Understand Abuse

Understanding Your Role as Agent of God’s Love

Understanding Abuse Dynamics

Discerning Abuse Dynamics

Section 2 – How to Help in the Short Term

Caring for the Victim

Confronting the Abuser

Considering Collateral Damage

Section 3 – How to Help in the Long Term

Helping the Move from Victim to Overcomer

Helping the Move from Abuser to Servant

Leading Your Church to Respond with Wisdom and Compassion

Appendix A – FAQs in the Initial Stages

Appendix B – FAQs on Separation, Divorce, and Reunification After Abuse

Appendix C – The Authority of Scripture and Abuse Research

Appendix D – Resources

Appendix E – Care Advocate Role Description

Episode Resources:
When Home Hurts

EP. 97 Live From 2021 Called To Counsel Conference W/Darby Strickland- Is It Abuse?: A Biblical Guide to Identifying Domestic Abuse and Helping Victims

Association of Biblical Counselors — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined with special guest, author and counselor, Darby Strickland to discuss her new book, "Is It Abuse?" A biblical guide to identifying domestic abuse and helping victims. Darby shares why she wrote the book and then discusses the robust nature in which "Is It Abuse" was written with Mike. The book was written in thirds; what is abuse and its dynamics, the different types of abuse and their distinctive's, and upholding the oppressed.

Episode Resources:
Darby's book: Is It Abuse?
Christian Counseling Education Foundation

EP. 96 Live from The 2021 Called to Counsel Conference W/Beth Broom & Eliza Huie: The Christian Trauma Healing Network

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 17 Oct 2021 21:38:10 -0500

Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Mike Van Dyke is joined by special guests Beth Broom and Eliza Huie to talk about their new venture, The Christian Trauma Healing Network(CTHN), which serves mental health professionals, pastors, and lay ministry leaders to advance Christ-centered trauma healing in the church and society. They also discuss their new podcast: Counsel For Life - engaging conversations about mental health and the Christian life.

Episode Resources:
Beth Broom's Website
Eliza Huie's Website
Christian Trauma Healing Network
Counsel For Life Podcast.

EP. 95 Live From The 2021 Called to Counsel Conference W/Eliza Huie - The Whole Life: 52 Weeks of Biblical Self-Care

Mike Van Dyke — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:16:27 -0500

Episode Notes
What does it look like for a Christian to live a balanced life that honors God? This book offers practical guidance for renewing body and soul so that readers will be energized to engage life with fresh enthusiasm and vigor for service to God. Focusing on six key areas, including your spiritual life, physical life, community life, your work, your purpose, and how your rest, Christians gain strategies to experience transformation in how they care for themselves and others.

Episode Resources:
Book - The Whole Life: 52 Weeks of Biblical Self-Care
More about - Eliza Huie

EP. 94 Live from The 2021 Called to Counsel Conference W/Garrett Higbee - Transformed Discipleship: Mutual Care Discipleship

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 23:24:27 -0500

Episode Summary:

In this episode host, Mike is joined with seasoned pastor and counselor, Garrett Higbee to discuss transforming the discipleship culture from unhealthy discipling to healthy mutual care discipling beginning with small group members and leaders(levels 1&2) to equipping coaches, pastors, and counselors.

Episode Notes:

Garrett's focus over the last few years of ministry - leader care and developing resources both in preventive care, intensive care, and disciple-making care, and leader care with pastors and elders. Helping get the leaders healthy.

Discipling continuum - intentional to intensive,

break down the equipping into the context that people live in, helping contextually and relationally.

level 1 - mutual ministry
level 2 - becoming a transforming leader, not a conforming leader
level 3 - coaches, pastors, elders

Church 360 assessment

how are we doing as a church in discipling and caring for our church?
- Leadership health assessment
providing a coaching review - key indicators
- abiding in christ - spiritual development
- Self-care, watching your life and doctrine closely.
- How's your EQ (emotional intelligence)

2 ways subordinate pastoral staff can engage lead pastor or executive-level staff.

Prayer
Testimony

Episode Resources:

soulcareconsulting.com

freedom groups - 13-week recovery ministry

EP. 93 Live from The 2021 ABC Conference W/Jonathan Holmes: Rescue Skills - Restoring The Sexually Broken

Mike Van Dyke, Jonathan Holmes — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:36:22 -0500

In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke is joined with special guest, Jonathan Holmes to discuss his new book, "Rescue Skills: Restoring The Sexually Broken". Jonathan shares his heart in co-authoring this book; writing a book that helps the friend who's got a friend who is struggling in their sexual brokenness, helping them develop a rescue plan by being the friend who can listen well, ask the right questions, and help to execute a plan that's full of the gospel, real repentance, and killing or replacing bad desires.

Mentioned Resources:

EP. 92 The Gospel In Counseling P2: Applying The Gospel In Counseling Situations

Mike Van Dyke, Peter Escue — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0500

THE GOSPEL IS FOR ...

◼ Counselees who feel that the Christian life is too hard

◼ Counselees who worry they need to do more to have the assurance of salvation
◼ Counselees who don’t want to forgive

◼ Counselees who need to be reminded that they don’t have to earn God’s favor
◼ Counselees who are depressed about their lack of spiritual maturity
◼ Counselees who are suffering from the sin of others or a broken world
◼ Counselees who are losing hope

◼ Counselees who continue to make the same mistakes

◼ Counselees who feel worthless or hated

◼ Counselees who are putting too much emphasis on this life
◼ Counselees who want to continue sinning

EP. 91 The Gospel In Counseling: Bringing The Gospel Into The Counseling Room - Part 1

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 30 May 2021 22:23:03 -0500

Episode Notes:
In this episode, Mike is joined by special guest, Peter Escue to discuss the reality and implications of the gospel in the counseling room. In this episode, they discuss what is the gospel, its corollaries, and the reality of gospel drift in those seeking counseling, and how the gospel can begin to be applied to specific issues within our counselees.

Episode Resources:
email us at topics@speakthetruth.org

EP. 90 Gospel For Real Life Series - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Recovering Hope W/Jeremy Lelek LPC-S

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 16 May 2021 20:02:25 -0500

“Post-traumatic stress disorder, a profoundly intense response to profoundly dangerous experiences, manifests itself in fear, terrifying vulnerability, and lack of a sense of control. While these responses are often involuntary, Jeremy Lelek reminds us that they are still responses . . . and, thus, different responses are possible. Here he relates the narrative of creation, fall, and redemption to the experiences of PTSD, reminding us that the gospel speaks to our experiences with danger as part of its redemptive message. He points to the wisdom of God in our suffering and reminds us of the saving grace offered by Jesus, guiding readers to the peace and contentment found in seeking God’s glory.

Episode Resources:
PTSD: Recovering Hope Booklet
Solomon Soulcare Services

EP. 89 Gospel For Real Life Series - Cutting: A Healing Response W/Jeremy Lelek LPC-S

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 09 May 2021 21:13:08 -0500

Episode Notes:
When feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self-condemnation set in, some people seek painful release in their own flesh and blood. While cutting can bring temporary relief, it falls far short of the genuine change that is essential to true healing of the heart.

Through the direct and honest example of one young woman's story, Jeremy Lelek points those in such pain to the sufferings of Jesus Christ and the finished work of the cross as their means of hope, security, and healing. He helps them to turn from trusting their own body and blood to trusting in the body and blood of Jesus, which alone has the power to bring true freedom.

View Ponts

Adopting a biblical view of the body.
Acknowledge attempts to replace the gospel with systems of redemption.
Accept what Jesus has given in his own blood and body.
Embrace the righteousness received in Christ Jesus

Episode Resources:
Cutting Booklet
Email us at topics@speakthetruth.org

EP. 88 Gospel For Real Life Series - Depression: The Sun Always Rises W/Author & Biblical Counselor Margaret Ashmore

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 02 May 2021 22:24:29 -0500

Episode Summary:
In this episode, hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy are joined by author and biblical counselor, Margaret Ashmore to discuss depression. The periods of depression that we all share can range from having a bad day to grieving the loss of a loved one. Our fallen world harbors a broad spectrum of suffering that, while never the same for each individual, has always been part of the human condition. Yet Margaret Ashmore reminds us that however difficult our circumstances, they cannot determine whether our lives are ruled by joy or by depression . . . the choices we make in light of those circumstances do. She lays before us a set of godly choices we can make in our own “dark night of the soul” to seek God’s freedom from our dominating depression.

Episode Notes:
Margaret attends Benchmark Bible Church in Denton, Texas, where she serves as director of the counseling ministry in addition to leading Bible studies for women. She is a frequent speaker for women’s retreats and conferences across the country as an outreach of her church. Margaret has always been single, considering this a gift in allowing her to freely serve the Lord in “feeding His sheep.”

What inspired you to write this book on Depression?
You started the book by describing the normality of depression, which might sound new to some people. Will you share with us what that means?
After your discussion on the normality of depression, you talk about the power to choose. Tell us more about that.
What passages of scripture do you most often use in counseling to someone struggling with depression?
On page 33, share with us how you used an image of Elizabeth Elliot as an illustration?
Outside of this book, is there anything else that would helpful for us to know/learn about providing biblical counseling to someone struggling with depression?
How would a pastor or biblical counselor use this book as a resource in counseling?

Episode Resources:

Depression: The Sun Always Rises (booklet highlighted in the episode)

Depression: A Stubborn Darkness - Ed Welch

Spiritual Depression - Martin Lloyd Jones

A Path Through SufferingElizabeth Elliott

EP. 87 Gospel For Real Life Series - God's Attributes: Rest For Life's Problems W/Pastor of Counseling Brad Hambrick

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 19:31:12 -0500

Episode Summary:
In this episode, hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy are joined by our special guest - Brad Hambrick. To discuss his booklet, God's Attributes. They discuss how a proper understanding of God is vital. However, many times what we observe from our own experiences (especially when they are difficult and painful) can affect the shape of that understanding. How do we know whether we have a true, balanced view of God?
This study looks at sixteen attributes of God, grouped under the headings of his love, essence, wisdom, and power, to help challenge your understanding. It goes on to challenge how well you rest in each attribute (have faith and comfort in it) and emulate it in the struggles and experiences of your own life. So learn, through your struggles, about the One who gives those struggles meaning.

Gospel for Real Life Series: God's Attributes - Rest For Life's Struggles:

1. Learning God’s attributes is a foundational truth that all of us should teaching in counseling, so we obviously love this booklet and can be a favorite resource for every counseling session.
What stirred your heart to write it?
2. You start off the book with this idea of ‘From life to God’, will share more about that with us.
3. You’ve created a chart ‘as a circle’ to help explain how to have a balanced view of God, with
four quadrants; Love, Essence, Wisdom & Power. Can you explain more about that?
4. How could the pastor or counselor use this chart as a tool in a session?
5. You’ve provided in the book a weekly devotional with daily scripture readings within that
topic, why was this important to include in the book?
6. How would a pastor or biblical counselor use this as a resource in counseling?

Episode Resources:
Bradhambrick.com
God's Attributes - Rest For Life's Struggles - Resource booklet

EP. 86 Gospel For Real Life Series: Self-Centered Spouse: Help For The Chronically Broken Marriages W/Pastor of Counseling Brad Hambrick

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 11 Apr 2021 22:37:00 -0500

In this episode, the hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss with special guest, Pastor of Counseling, Brad Hambrick of The Summit Church in Durham, NC how to identify passive or aggressive self-centered spouses, what types of passive and aggressive, their stages, and strategies for interaction.

Episode Notes:
1. You write using Case Studies, Passive and Aggressive self-centered spouse, tell us why you approached the book that way?
2. Within each assessing the problem, you break it down into 3 stages. Do you want to give us a quick recap of those?
3. So you then go to mention types within the passive & aggressive self-centered spouses…share with us a bit more about that.
4. What are some strategies of interaction within these types of self-centered spouses?
5. After writing this book, is there anything else that would helpful for us to know/learn about providing biblical counseling to a self-centered spouse?
6. How would a pastor or biblical counselor use this as a resource in counseling?

Episode Resources:
Self-Centered Souse booklet
Becoming a church that cares for the abused
Bradhambrick.com

EP. 85 Gospel For Real Life Series: Burnout W/Pastor of Counseling Brad Hambrick

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 20:04:47 -0500

In this episode, hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss with special guest, Pastor of Counseling, Brad Hambrick of The Summit Church in Durham, NC the reality of "Burnout" - resting in God's fairness. Brad argues burnout is actually a consequence of our life management, and he shows us how to create a time budget to avoid living beyond our means with the time God has provided.

What is Burnout?
What Causes Burnout?
You mention motives in burnout…can you speak to that? -pride, fear & approval of man
You suggest doing a time budget…can you share more about that?
What are your suggestions to help prevent burnout?
How would a pastor or biblical counselor use this as a resource in counseling?

Episode References:
Burnout: Resting In God's Fairness

www.bradhambrick.com/events - webinar call for pastors and counselors.

EP. 84 We're Back 2021: Introduction to Gospel for Real Life Series & ABC National Conference

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 22:52:06 -0500

In this episode, the hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy are back in the studio to discuss the "Gospel For Real Life" series that will be launching over the next 6 weeks that will be super helpful and practical in the counseling room. This series includes burnout, self-centered spouses, God's attributes, depression, PTSD, and cutting - they then discuss the 2021 ABC National Conference.

Gospel Care Collective W/Jason Kovacs

R3stored Ministries W/Carl & Laura Chica

Shauna@christiancounseling.com with any questions regarding training centers

Email us at topics@speakthetruth.org with anything you'd like us to discuss.

EP. 83 Reaching The Unreached Deaf & Hard of Hearing Community: Interview W/The Burgeron's of Austin Stone Community Church

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 18:22:43 -0600

The need in the deaf community

Statistics:

90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents
85% of mothers learn to sign and about 2% of fathers learn to sign
so most don't learn to communicate in their heart language(sign language).
The deaf is considered an unreached people group, so less than 2% of the deaf community are believers in America.
70 Million deaf and hard of hearing people in the world.
Fall of 2020 a bible was translated into the heart language(sign language)
Sunshine Interpreters
Deaf Millennial Project
Deaf Bible Society
Deaf Missions
Door International

EP. 82 Anxiety: Anatomy & Cure W/Author Bob Kellemen

Mike and Shauna Van Dyke and Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 20:00:00 -0600

Booklet Summary
- Anxiety: Anatomy and Cure presents God’s prescription for victory in anxiety. Worry, doubt, and fear get the best of us all sometimes. Anxiety, like any other negative emotion, is a twisted version of something positive from God. Since we live in a fallen world, we may never have full victory over anxiety on this side of heaven. However, Bob Kellemen counsels that we can have victory in our anxieties—we can learn to use anxiety when it strikes and avoid the temptation to sin. In this biblical applicational study, Bob lays out a proper Christian view of anxiety from Creation to Fall to Redemption to Consummation. Along the way, he helps us apply the gospel to our daily lives and reclaim anxiety for what it should be—a vigilance to motivate us to do God’s work.
- Purchase Anxiety: Anatomy and Cure

To learn more about the books, including free resources and sample chapters, people can visit Bob’s RPM Ministries website: www.rpmministries.org.

Also, RPM Ministries has it's own secure, user-friendly RPM Ministries Book Store (https://rpmministries.org/store/) where people can order either book individually for 35% off, or they can purchase the two books together for 40% off.

About Bob Kellemen:
Bob Kellemen, Th.M., Ph.D.: Dr. Kellemen is Academic Dean, Dean of Students, and Professor of Biblical Counseling at Faith Bible Seminary in Lafayette, Indiana. Bob is also the Founder and CEO of RPM Ministries through which he speaks, writes, and consults on biblical counseling and Christian living. Dr. Kellemen served as the founding Executive Director of the Biblical Counseling Coalition. For seventeen years, Bob was the founding Chairman of and Professor in the MA in Christian Counseling and Discipleship department at Capital Bible Seminary in Lanham, MD. Bob has pastored four churches and equipped biblical counselors in each church. Bob and his wife, Shirley, have been married for thirty-nine years; they have two adult children, Josh and Marie, and three granddaughters. Dr. Kellemen is the author of twenty books including Gospel-Centered Marriage Counseling and Gospel-Centered Family Counseling.

EP. 81 Interview W/Author & Professor Bob Kellemen - Gospel Centered Marriage & Family: Equipping Guides for Pastors and Counselors

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 21:00:00 -0600

Two-Book Series Information

On September 15, 2020, Baker Books released Dr. Bob Kellemen’s 19th and 20th books—a two-book series on marriage and family counseling:

Gospel-Centered Marriage Counseling: An Equipping Guide for Pastors and Counselors
Gospel-Centered Family Counseling: An Equipping Guide for Pastors and Counselors

To learn more about the books, including free resources and sample chapters, people can visit Bob’s RPM Ministries website: www.rpmministries.org.

EP. 80 Unpacking OCD Part 2: Biblical Conceptualization of OCD

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 21:00:00 -0600

Biblical Concepualization of OCD 300.3

Presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both:

Obsessions are conceptualized by the following:

Fallen World—There is empirical evidence that obsessions are strongly influenced by factors associated with living in a fallen world (i.e., brain structure, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse at a young age).

Fear—Obsessions within this diagnosis are typically associated with perceived and potentially dreadful outcomes. For example, becoming contaminated by germs or unbiblical ideas about being condemned by God.

Deception—Obsessions are products of a deceptive heart (Jeremiah 17:9), and are not rooted in actual, objective reality.

Self-Focus—Since obsessions create significant distress and anxiety, they will often contribute to an excessive and extreme form of self-focus wherein the vast amount of a person’s cognitive activity and life is centered on his/her subjective reality.

Presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both:

Compulsions are conceptualized by the following:

Control—Unlike obsessions (which are involuntary), compulsions are learned behaviors that are an attempt to control one’s sense of anxiety or distress as well as perceived threats or dreadful outcomes.

Deception—Compulsions “feel” uncontrollable, but this is simply another agonizing deception of the heart that is associated with this particular diagnosis. Additionally, compulsions ultimately do not effectively treat the haunting obsessions that create distress in people.

Folly—Defined as a lack of normal prudence and foresight (especially in reference to God). When an individual follows his/her own folly it turns his/her world upside down(Proverbs 19:3).

Counsel may increase fear/anger/distress:
When being counseled or treated, counselees are confronted with new ways of seeing and experiencing, and this may manifest increased fear and anger.

EP. 79 Unpacking Diagnoses: Unpacking Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Part 1

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:00:00 -0600

DSM 5 Criteria for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 300.3

Presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both:

Obsessions are defined by (1) and (2)

Recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced, at some time during the disturbance, as intrusive and unwanted, and that in most individuals cause marked anxiety or distress.

The individual attempts to ignore or suppress such thoughts, urges, or images, or to neutralize them with some other thought or action (i.e., by performing a compulsion).

2. Compulsions are defined by (1) and (2)

Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand washing, ordering, checking) or mental acts (e.g., praying, counting, repeating words silently) that the individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly.

The behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety or distress, or preventing some dreaded event or situation…clearly excessive.

B. Presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both:

Compulsions are defined by (1) and (2)

The behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety or distress, or preventing some dreaded event or situation…clearly excessive.

EP. 78 A Year in Review: What Is The DSM of Mental Disorder With An Important Disclaimer

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 08 Nov 2020 21:24:36 -0600

This was a podcast we did earlier this year to begin the conversation regarding the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorder with an important disclaimer. In order to re-engage the conversation of counseling people who have been highly psychologized, we wanted to review this episode to set up our episode next week regarding (OCD | Obsessive Compulsive Disorder).

Here are the notes from earlier this year on this episode. Stay tuned next week as we continue in our "unpacking diagnoses" mini series: unpacking OCD.

The disclaimer is to help pastors, biblical counselors, and lay leaders to engage the culture with this material.

– Understanding the DSM and its terms

– Not feeling intimidated by labels

– Diagnostic damnation - the label becomes the person’s identity

– Everyone has a worldview, a lense, a conceptual lens in which they view everything

– Secular psychology pushes, what does my theory say - so our theory informs our methodology

– The DSM is the bible of Psychiatry

– when we encounter these labels, we’re not counseling them, we're counseling the heart - according to scripture

EP. 77 Interview W/Pastor & Biblical Counselor Lee Lewis: Establishing Mutual Soul Care In The Local Church

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 20:29:22 -0500

In this episode, host, Mike Van Dyke sits down with Pastor and Biblical Counselor, Lee Lewis to discuss establishing mutual soul care in the local church - bringing soul care into the life and culture of the local church. They discuss the process of evaluating the culture in a church - it's care culture and discipleship culture. And asking questions that may reveal being a Sunday heavy church. Is it time to change the model of our churches? Is the current model producing disciples that are equipped to love as Christ called us to in order to show the world that we are His disciples? Episode Resources: www.soulcareconsulting.com Material: Level 1 - Transforming Mutual Care. Level 2 - Transforming Small Group Leadership

EP. 76 Counseling Anxiety: Trauma Induced Anxiety W/Beth Broom & Lee Lewis

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

Trauma-Induced Anxiety

The effects of sin

Identifying gospel gaps in the anxious heart

Concern and trouble are sinful, it's when it goes beyond that to worry and anxiety

What we do with worry either leads to trust or anxiety. And depending on where that trust is, depends on when something turns into full-blown anxiety.

Conditioned Anxiety - when one blows right past care and concern into anxiety.

Then anxious heart always puts God on trial and questions His character.

Episode Resouces:
www.bethmariebroom.com

EP. 75 Interview W/Pastor & Author John Henderson: Counseling Through The Psalms From 2020 Called To Counsel Conference

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 22:52:05 -0500

Episode Notes:

what are the psalms
how would you use it in the counseling session
After the session for homework
The Psalms naturally model for us a Godwardness to our prayers, thinking, suffering, and pain.
What life is about the bible is about, and what the bible is about is what life most needs to be about.

Resources:
Counseling Through The Psalms - ABCRes

EP. 74 Interview W/Author Elyse Fitzpatrick To Discuss A Couple of Her Books: Worthy & Home From ABC 2020 National Conference

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 20 Sep 2020 21:41:32 -0500

Episode Notes:

In this episode, the hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy are joined with Author, Elyse Fitzpatrick to discuss her Home: How Heaven and the New Earth Satisfy Our Deepest Longings. And then they discuss her newest book, Worthy: Celebrating the Value of Women.

Episode Resources

Worthy
Home
Sheep Among Wolves
Elyse's Podcast - Worthy

EP. 73 ABC Certification Pathway: Cultivating A Biblical Counseling Paradigm In The Local Church

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 21:06:01 -0500

Episode Notes:

ABC's aim through the certification pathway to help equip the local church - a pastor in helping shepherd the local church - but also the professional to help better apply the bible in their practice.
Our pathway provides a foundational process in which to grow while allowing one to practically apply the truth as one learns; so our methodology creates the ability to cultivate a biblical counseling paradigm in the local church.
The certification parameter creates a culture of accountability and provides a pathway to becoming equipped in how to apply the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyday life.
Level 1 Certification Objectives
- Develop a biblical philosophy of the Christian life that includes active involvement in a community of believers.
- Develop a biblical philosophy of counseling that emphasizes the call of all believers to take part in the work of counseling and discipleship.
- Understand the basic meaning of biblical counseling.
- Acquire a basic understanding of the general and specific methods of biblical counseling.
- Cover various counseling-related issues that include depression, anger, anxiety, addiction, and sexuality.
Level 2 Certification Objectives
- Develop basic practical skills in the personal ministry of God’s word with people. These basic skills include careful listening, helping people open up, conveying compassion, grace, and mercy, and guiding constructive ministry conversations.
- Develop more advanced skills in the personal ministry of God’s word with people. These more advanced skills include responding patiently to difficult ministry conversations, discerning counseling problems from within a biblical worldview, helping people understand and apply the gospel of Jesus Christ in daily life, and more.
- Grow in Christian maturity as a minister of the gospel. That is, learn to be humble, repentant, and dependent upon the Holy Spirit in heart and life while ministering to others.
- Broaden your general knowledge of Scripture as it relates to life and struggles while also broadening the strategic and careful application of the Scripture to specific people and their situations.
- Learn how to depend on the Holy Spirit during the process of change.
- Develop a genuine love for others, and active, daily prayer life.
Level 3 Certification Objectives
- Specialized training

Episode Resources:

shauna@christiancounseling.com for more information about ways to connect with training centers

EP. 72 EquipU Resource: Spiritual and Physical Implications of Exercise - A Tool to Help Hearts Towards Worship

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 21:10:01 -0500

Exercise - excerpt from the monthly (August) EquipU piece:
- Exercise has wonderful potential to positively impact one’s mental state in various ways. It is also important to note that while not emphasized in Western culture, exercise at root, is a spiritual activity. It is a spiritual activity because one’s motives for doing anything, including exercise, are ultimately anchored in what an individual is worshipping.
1 Cor. 10:31 - "Whatever you do" "do all" "to the glory of God"
Creating a purpose statement - placing God at the center of why you do a particular activity/exercise, etc.
Gal. 5:16-17 - competing desires
Matt. 6:21 - what does the person value
Eph. 4:22-24 - deceitful desires and what they can produce
The physical and emotional benefits of exercising
- Endorphin release - improving sleep quality, mood and cognitive function
- Neurotropic release - learning ability
- Adrenal functioning - improving mod, and ability to cope with stress
Habituation

EP. 71 The Divine Narrative of Redemption: ABC EquipU Resource - Helping Our Counselee's See Their Story In God's Story

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 20:39:52 -0500

In this episode, the hosts, Mike, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss how this ABC EquipU Resource can be used as homework in helping our counselee's see their story's hardships, sufferings, and subsequent trauma through the larger Redemptive Narrative of God. The application from the exercise with the counselee would be; Individual lives are like a sentence in a much bigger story. If people interpret reality based on their own subjective story, then they will miss the glorious story of God and His gracious, continual, and progressive work in the lives of His children. If people want to understand their suffering, their struggles, their sin, the process of change, the means to change, and the purpose for change, they must embed, and then interpret their individual stories within the context of God’s divine and redemptive narrative. Only then, does any of it have meaning, significance, and purpose.

Previous EquipU Episodes:
- Ep. 64 - Heart of the Matter Part2 "Put On"
- Ep. 56 - Heart of the Matter Part1 "Put Off"
Please email us at topics@speakthetruth.org with any questions or topics you'd like us to discuss.

EP. 70 A Year Later: Biblical Counseling & Church Planting W/Pastor Ronnie Mills

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary:
In this episode, the hosts, Mike & Shauna, are joined in studio with special guest, Ronnie Mills Church planter of Kingdom Chapel in North Fort Worth to discuss church planting and biblical counseling; creating biblical counseling in the DNA of a new church plant.

Episode Notes:

As a podcast devoted to biblical truth for counseling & discipleship for the counselor and local church, we wanted to invite our friend, Ronnie Mills,
Pastor of Kingdom Chapel North Fort Worth
Baptist Missionary Association of Texas help Ronnie launch out in their church plant
Kingdom Chapel is located Alliance Christian Academy
Biblical counseling training has greatly improved his discipleship efforts and his preaching.
Biblical counseling has already begun to be rooted in the DNA of the church, so we can raise up leaders through discipleship and biblical counseling to strengthen the body, and keep it healthy.
Email Speak The Truth about getting a biblical counseling ministry started in your church; topics@speakthetruth.org
5 Resolves for soul care
God has called me
God has gone before me
Pastor now - shepherd now
Stay relative to “us”. .....
Raise leaders - we can’t do this on our own.
The hardest thing about church planting is putting yourself out there.
Fear of man becomes a huge struggle for putting yourself out there as leaders.

Episode Resources:

EP. 69 A Year Later: Launching A Biblical Counseling Ministry In A Established Church W/Pastor Andy Swart

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 20:43:52 -0500

This episode was from last year(EP.29); hosts, Michael & Shauna, have a special guest Pastor, Andy Swart discussing; launching a biblical counseling ministry within his established church. Intentionally raising up lay leaders who love people and know God's Word to do the work of the ministry within their own body - cultivating Saints for Soul Care - the purpose of "one-anothering" in the local church. Episode Notes Moving from Planting (Metro Church) to an already established church (The Mount). Creating an environment that allows people to struggle, starting from the platform. Truth Renewed isn’t a replacement for the church regarding counseling, but an overflow of care. Truth Renewed is a training center to help equip church leaders to become biblical counselors and launch biblical counseling in the local church. Trident of ministry; robust theology, organization strategy, counsel and care. In the same way, we raise up leaders to make Sunday happen, we need to raise up care leaders for the rest of the week - where ministry lives. Don’t stop plowing, it takes time to bring life change and equipping the saints. Trust the process of sanctification. Find those in your congregation who are gifted in caring for others, they’re serious about God’s Word and the process of transformation, and scholarship them. Find a line item in your budget to cultivate the saints in soul care. The posture of a pastor should be a leader of learning. Sunday morning is to edify the saints. Email us on any topics; topics@speakthetruth.org Reach out to Shauna if you’d like to start a biblical counseling ministry @ christiancounseling.com Episode Resources: The Mount Church Metro Church Rage Ministries Instruments in the Redeemer's Hand's Christiancounseling.com Information about training your lay leaders as biblical counselors or becoming a training center, email Shauna, Shauna@christiancounseling.com

EP. 68 Interview W/Pastor Trey Grant Part 2: His Perspective On #BlackLivesMatter

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 21:59:27 -0500

Episode Notes:

Trey gives his perspective on the statement, #BlackLivesMatter
- #BlackLivesMatter was the first organization to speak up about how they felt about the mistreatment of people of color - the church didn't step up and say something needs to be done.
- The evangelical church didn't step up and speak out against these injustices
- I am for the statement, but I don't support the mission or values of the organization.

Episode Resources:

Books recommended by Trey

EP. 67 Systemic Racism And The Church Part 1: Deconstructing Perspectives That Produce Racism - Interview W/Pastor Trey Grant

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

Over 80% of churches are homogenous churches; White churches, Black churches, Hispanic churches, Asian churches, etc.
Protesting without deconstructing doesn't tare down the walls of systemic racism
We need to research what is system racism or institutional racism and find ways to deconstruct it in our spheres of influence. Be intentional in cultivating relationships with those who don't look like us, etc.

Episode Resources:

The Well Church: https://www.thewellchurchkeller.org/whoarewe
Specs Movement: http://www.thespecsmovement.com/

EP. 66 Counsel For Couples A Year Later: Interview W/Author Jonathan D. Holmes

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:54:59 -0500

A Few Points:

There isn’t really anything available that speaks directly to laypeople, church leaders who could use it as a resource., user friendly, helpful as soon as you pick it up.
Using this book for leadership development would be extremely useful.
Fieldstone grew outside of the church.
Pastors move from scripture to life and counselors are trying to move from life to scripture. -
For pastors who are preaching week to week; if you’re trying to move from Scripture to life, all counseling is, is moving from life to scripture.
Don’t counsel alone, bring others in with you. Reduplicate yourselves.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Promote preventative ministries.

Resources From Episode"

EP. 65 Domestic Violence A Year Later: Interview W/Greg Wilson From The ABC 2019 Called To Counsel Conference

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Greg Wilson discusses the nature and scope of “Domestic Violence”, defined and explained.

The church hasn’t done well in this category of ministry.

Desecrating the image of God in another person. Where man has perverted the dominion that God gave man to rule and subdue the earth, but in man’s sinful state, he corruptly exerts power through violence.
- Definition: the desecration of the image of God through patterns of intentionally misusing power overtly or covertly in words or actions to gratify self.
We need to engender a little more fear in the church to reveal the reality and frequency of it.
Indicators of possible abuse
- Broadly, dominates control of emotional liberty, limiting relationships, finances, elements of control.
- Gaslighting - convincing the other spouse that they’re crazy, and thus gaining control over the other person. Colloquially, crazy-making.
- Triangulating tactics towards the counselor in counseling done through the perpetrator in counseling, so domestic abuse is happening in real-time in the counseling session.
  - Covert abuse.
- In domestic abuse cases, the counselor, if not careful, can sound like the abuser by telling the victim what they need to do.
- Safety planning;
  - Short term plans
  - Long term plans
- In counseling, we need to help to rescue the oppressed, God did!
- In the church, we need to be rescuing the oppressed, not encouraging them to stay in that situation.
Church; care before you correct these domestic abuse cases.

Episode References:

EP. 64 Heart Of The Matter Series P2: Putting On The New Self - A Counseling Tool That Helps Cultivate Biblical Thoughts, Desires, And Actions

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Show Notes:
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by the water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

The Heart of the Matter (Put On) Series is intended for use upon thoroughly working through the Put Off portion of this series. It is designed to help you facilitate a process with your counselees wherein they are given the opportunity to prayerfully examine Scripture as it pertains to divine truth concerning their beliefs, desires, and behaviors. Below is a brief explanation of each part of this series, and each handout’s purpose within the counseling process:

Biblical Thoughts About My Situation and Others:

Continuing to use the heart log counselees will be instructed to identify statements on these handouts that are relevant to their current situation. These thoughts are reasoned from biblical truth, and counselees should be encouraged to dispose of deceptive thoughts (identified in the “Put Off” portion of this series), and embrace thoughts more aligned with statements on this handout. Again, dissonance may occur, and it is important to notify counselees that this is a normal part of the process. The heart’s tendency to deceive does not evaporate simply because someone begins to wage war against lies. A helpful exercise along with the Heart Log might be to have them journal why dissonance remains or why they continue to lean towards believing deception over truth.

Biblical Thoughts About Self:

Unfortunately many Christians deeply embrace condemning thoughts about themselves. Such thoughts minimize the beauty of the Gospel while blinding people to their deepest identities as brought forth in the Bible. This handout provides just a few statements that are most true about your counselee (assuming he/she has placed faith in the finished work of Jesus). Work through each of these statements with your counselee. Allow them to wrestle with each statement, and have them examine why they will not (or feel they cannot) embrace these gifts from our Lord. Make sure that as they assimilate these thoughts (by God’s grace) that you make these thoughts about the kindness and love of God so that pride and self-centeredness do not sabotage the intent of this exercise. Maybe have them write prayers of gratitude to God for his amazing grace.

Biblical Thoughts to Believe (in Faith) About My Situations and Others:

While my situation is challenging, God is faithful to effectively help and strengthen me (Ps. 46:1-3).

There is no situation too difficult for the Lord to resolve, and I will seek to glorify him in seeking resolution. Ultimately, I will seek to trust God’s purposes in Him either resolving or not resolving this issue (1 Corinthians 10:31; Proverbs 16:9).

My situation feels like it has destroyed my life, but as long as I live I have the freedom to respond to my situation in a way that shapes and matures me so that I become more and more complete as God’s instrument of grace (James 1:1-4).

My pain influences me to feel God is absent, but that cannot true. He is actually my refuge always present to help me in difficulty. Jesus actually lives to constantly intercede for me! (Psalm 46:1; Hebrews 6:23-25)

Rejection can be extremely painful, but I have experienced it before and was able to persevere. I survived! If I feel it’s intolerable, maybe I am putting too much trust in people while not earnestly trusting God. Jesus does not condemn or reject me in this struggle, but deeply relates to and sympathizes with me in the pain of rejection (Jeremiah 17:5-9; John 19:15; Hebrews 4:15).

Disapproval can be difficult, but fearing people is a trap that destroys. Believing that I need approval from someone in order to thrive is not true. Exercising faith in God as my sufficient helper is the antidote to my fear (Proverbs 25:29; Hebrews 13:6).

People don’t necessarily cause my feelings and responses (though they do influence), but often people reveal things in my heart that I need to examine. It is nice to be noticed, but demanding it as a “must” could be revealing idolatry and deceptive desires in my heart (Colossians 3:5).

Episode Resource:
Christian Counseling - Heart of the Matter Counseling Resource

EP. 63 PTSD A Year Later: Curtis Solomon Interview On: Demystifying PTSD (EP. 9)

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 21 Jun 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary: Curtis takes time to Demystify PTSD by removing the D out of it. It’s not an abnormal reaction to normal life, but it’s really a normal response to really extreme and difficult circumstances. PTSD is severely misunderstood, and in this episode, Curtis offers a robust understanding of the nature and scope of PTSD.

Episode Notes: How do we demystify PTSD?

With the Counselee, helping them understand what’s going on physiologically and spiritually as far as what they're facing because the body naturally responds to trauma, and the physiological implications of fight or flight that is associated with fear.
This isn’t just a military issue.
First responders experience a lot of trauma, as well as familial experiences and events.
People respond to trauma differently, and there are a lot of factors that play into manifestations of trauma.
Pre traumatic factors involve a lot around how one grew up, experiences, core beliefs, worldview, etc. All of these factors play into the way someone responds to suffering, hardship, and trauma.
Peri Traumatic - how are you responding to suffering, what was actually going on in the event itself, what happened to me, was it something I did, who was involved, etc.
Where to start with a PTSD case, first develop trust. Going into time with humility, and ask good questions.
Ways for churches to best minister to those struggling with PTSD
Disassociation, removing yourself from reality, and entering back into a traumatic scenario.

Show Resource Mentions:

EP. 62 Questions & Topics Answered: Your Questions Answered From Grief, Rejection, Can A Woman lead A Vision In The Church(from EP.55), Respond To Some Feedback Regarding EMDR

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 22:30:00 -0500

Episode Notes

Answers to Shauna's questions of who'd we like to sit down with over a cup of coffee

Mike - Jeff Durbin
Shauna - John Piper / Ben Shapiro
Jeremy - James K. A. Smith / Jordan Peterson

Topics & Questions Answered

Grief?
- grieving the loss of a child or a child losing a parent
- Books on grief & loss
  - Bob Kellemen - God's healing for life's losses: to find hope when you're hurting
  - Paul Tautges - A small book for the hearting heart: meditations on loss, grief, and healing
  - Paul Tautges - Comfort those who grieve
Rejection?
Can a woman lead out in a church ministry with a vision for launching and cultivating a biblical counseling ministry in the local church?
Respond to some feedback we received regarding EMDR

EP. 61 Suffering A Year Later: Interview W/Paul Tripp On Suffering - Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Show Notes:
Paul Tripp discusses his heart behind his recent book release on suffering, “Suffering: gospel hope when life doesn’t make sense”, which was largely due to his own recent experiences in suffering through an acute renal failure. Listen as Paul shares the nature of suffering and our response to it. "Tweetable Tripp one-liners" from the episode

Suffering is spiritual warfare
Suffering isn’t neutral, we never come to suffering empty; we don’t suffer the thing your suffering, you suffer the way your suffering the thing your suffering.
We have a dark ability to trouble our own trouble.
Our bad theology is making a mess of our suffering.
God doesn’t need us to be healthy to use us; that’s a human way of thinking.
The move of grace is not from dependence to independence, but the move of grace is from independence to dependence.
We’re afraid to be honest and transparent because we don’t believe the gospel.
As Christians, we should be able to be the most honest community on the earth.
As Christians, we struggle with believing the now-ism of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
As Christians, we need to stop having cosmetic relationships.
God makes his invisible grace visible by sending people of grace to give grace to people who need grace, that’s how it works, modeling that incarnational living.
Our weakness is God’s workroom.

Episode Resource Links:

EP. 60 Depression A Year Later: A Gospel Response to Depression W/Lee Lewis (EP. 10 A/Year Ago)

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Show notes:

The cultural view of depression

Treats it like a disease, attributing it or reducing it to a chemical imbalance or a genetic disposition. These aren’t invalid, but it causes a quick diagnosis so it can be treated quickly. It can almost promise a remedy, which scripturally speaking, is much deeper, its more of a heart problem that has physiological and emotional implications. Therefore, culture has a very superficial view and resolution to depression, very much consistent with the medical model. This isn’t bad, its just incomplete and a truncated resolution because it doesn’t deal with the heart of a person which is where the root of depression is planted.
Medication implications - they don’t necessarily fix the problem, but ultimately mask the problem and often times creates new symptoms. As biblical counselors, we wouldn’t counsel clients to stop taking meds, but to seek their medical professional.
Placebo testing with depression medications demonstrated that the prospect of hope helped tremendously with those struggling with depression. If a placebo provided hope imagine what real hope can do for those depressed; the gospel provides a living hope to the hopeless.

General & Biblical Notes on Depression:

Depression is a progression; when unbelief goes isolated, and it's allowed to reign and nothing else is pressing in on that like community groups, discipleship, etc. it's very likely one can slip into a bout of depression.
Paul’s teaching on suffering is helpful. Gal. 6.1-5.
Imagine our community group leaders who respond in a Gal. 6.1-5 way?
Learning from depression - learning to preach the gospel to ourselves and having others in our lives to speak into them.
The gospel gap - gospel truth. Learning to orient our hearts in the place of sorrow.
Learning to abide in Christ
Gospel Community is so necessary for those struggling with depression.

Show Resource Notes:

EP. 59 What Is EMDR Therapy - With Author & Biblical Counselor Eliza Huie

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 24 May 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

- What is EMDR Therapy

Developed by Psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR stands for Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization. It focuses on how memory is stored in the brain and how that impacts experience. It is a successful evidenced-based method for treating trauma.

- How is it used

EMDR uses dual attention stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or rhythmic audio sounds) to activate the brain’s orienting response, allowing you to access adaptive information and attach it to the memory of trauma. “EMDR connects the ‘here and now’ parts of your brain to the ‘then and there’ trauma parts until your brain says I'm ok.

- Is EMDR biblical

To ask if EMDR is biblical may not be the right question if you are hoping to find the Scripture that speaks of it. The better question may be, “Is it unbiblical?” To that the answer is easy. –No. Nothing in the practice of EMDR goes against Scripture. When done by a
biblical counselor, it is best understood that EMDR is applying neuroscience to biblical counseling.

- Scriptures and the EMDR process

Psalm 139:14- The complexities of the brain are the Lord’s handiwork.
John 16:13- Speaks of the Spirit’s role to guide us in truth. Believing clients often find the truth of Scripture plays a key role in the EMDR process.
Jeremiah 33:6- Reminds us that healing is connected to truth.
John 8:32- Truth has the power to set us free from what binds.
2 Corinthians 10:5- Calls us to take thoughts captive.
Isaiah 61:1-3- Gives a picture of the healing that is ours.
Psalm 24:1- All things belong to the Lord, including methods of care and healing.

- Who should consider EMDR
- If you've been impacted by trauma

Trauma is defined as the emotional shock following a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. Trauma overwhelms the senses and hijacks normal processing. Traumatic experiences cover a broad range. Some include personal involvement where something happened to you. Others include something that happened to someone with you. Situations can also be traumatic due to the personal significance and impact on your life. Trauma results in an overwhelming sense of fear, feelings of helplessness, and loss of control. PTSD and CPTSD are clinical diagnoses given to people who are dealing with the continual impact of trauma. However, you do not need a diagnosis for EMDR to be helpful in processing your experience.

- If you feel "stuck"

EMDR is extremely helpful to people who feel stuck in their struggle. If negative self-talk, catastrophizing, feeling continually overwhelmed, or feelings of hopelessness are part of your regular life, reprocessing target events and memories with EMDR can help. If your life seems centered around the negative experiences of your past and traditional talk-therapy has not fully helped you move forward, EMDR may be exactly what is needed.

- Is EMDR safe

Yes. Because EMDR is non-invasive and client-led, there is little concern surrounding the process or impact of the therapy. Below are supporting facts as well as things to consider:
- The client remains fully coherent and focused during the process.
- The client sets the pace and can decide if they need to stop at any time.
- When done properly, EMDR has the least susceptibility to suggestion or manipulation than do other therapies.
- EMDR should only be done by a professionally trained therapist.
- While EMDR is considered safe, not everyone is a good candidate for this therapy. Consult with a trained professional to determine if it is right for you.

Episode Resources:

Eliza's Books
- Raising Teens in a hyper-sexualized world
- Raising kids in a screen saturated world

EP. 58 ABC Assessments Explained & Applied: Strengthening Data Gathering In The Counseling Room n' Local Church For Leadership Development

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 17 May 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

After 8 or 9 minutes of riffing about being in lockdown with each other, the discussion starts about using assessments in the counseling room and with the local church for leadership development.
ABC has a resource page with the assessments broken down into categories such as:
- Anger
- Marriage
- Sex
- Intimacy
- bitterness
- Money
- Spiritual Life
- Substance Abuse
- Parenting
- Adultery
- Domestic Abuse
- Womanhood, etc.
Besides providing excellent training for certifying biblical counselors, ABC is also dedicated to providing, through membership, counselors with enough resources to help.
- You can print out one of the resources and hand them right to the client.
- ABC membership is really a resource hub
- The assessments help gather data quickly with a Likert Scale

Episode Resources:

Association of Biblical Counselors Membership

EP. 57 Using The "One Another" Scriptures From the Counseling Room to the Small Group Living Room

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 10 May 2020 21:00:00 -0500

General Notes:

Discuss Stewart Scott's new book, "31 Ways to be A One-Another Christian
How Mike uses it as a pastor to encourage group leaders to be more relationally intentional with their groups and then being able to use it as a more formative leadership developing piece.
Also, as a counselor, being able to use it as a form of data gathering, where the counselor is being forward about the relational dynamic of church engagement. As most counselees are pretty infrequent in attending church and even more infrequent with the communal life of their church.
Using the book as a homework assignment to help counselees meditate on the verses, their explanations, maybe think of their own illustration, and then work to apply it by asking specific questions that center around the actions of the verse, etc.

Episode Resources:

31 Ways to be A One Another Christian - Stuart Scott
Biblical Counseling Coalition

EP. 56 Heart of The Matter Series: A Counseling Tool That Helps Expose Deceptive Thoughts, Desires, and Habits

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 03 May 2020 22:35:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

The Heart of the Matter: designed to help facilitate a process with our counselees to help with the opportunity of examining their hearts. Drawn from Psalm 26.2
- Heart log (helpful in assisting counselees to identify various aspects of their hearts
  - begin to identify our theirs through logging
    - A situation
    - Their emotion
    - Their thoughts and beliefs
    - Their desires and wants
    - Their subsequent behaviors and habits
- Emotion Wheel
  - Emotions are often smoke alarms of the soul that alert us to problems
- Using the exercises to reveal deceptive patterns of thoughts, desires, behaviors, etc.
  - Deceptive thoughts about situations and others
  - Deceptive thoughts about self
  - Deceptive desires
  - Level of desire
  - Sinful behaviors or habits
This series is intended to diagnose what is going on within the counselee. The next part of the series will be about "Put On", where this series is about "Put Off"

Episode Resources:

Books
- A Theology of Christian Counseling - Jay Adams.
Links
- http://feelingswheel.com/

Episode Quotes:

Situation is just a context that exposes the heart. - Jeremy Lelek.
Idolatry is when you give yourself permission not to love God or someone else because you didn't get what you wanted. - Jeremy Lelek.
Habits shape the heart - Christian History.

EP. 55 Building A Culture of Soul Care In The Local Church: Interview W/Lee Lewis

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes

Interview with Lee Lewis (was in our 10th podcast on depression)

Pastor at Radiant Church in Austin - https://www.radiantaustin.com/

www.soulcareconsulting.com
12 stone counseling - Garret Higbee
- https://www.twelvestones.org/
Soulcare Consulting
- Creating a ministry of soul care
- Build a culture of care not a side avenue of care
- What would that process look like for a church considering implementing this culture of care
  - 360 evaluation interview process
    - Evaluate what's already happening in the church, find holes, and then provide a road map.
    - The road map is tailored to the size of the church, the resources they have available, which serves as a playbook to implement a process of healthy discipleship and culture of care.
  - Tag Line: "equipping churches for intentional life on life ministry to the intensive care needs."
    - Resources
      - level 1 - small group study
      - Freedom groups - Gal. 5 13 weeks

Reach out to soul care consulting at:
- info@soulcareconsulting.com

Influential books Lee has read
- Instrument's in the Redeemer's hand -Paul Tripp
- Desiring God - John Piper
- Knowing God - J. I. Packer
- All Things for the Good - Thomas Watson
- Book of Psalms

EP. 54 FAITH: Keeping The Object Of Our Faith In Focus During Times Of Crisis

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 19 Apr 2020 20:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

Faith
- God will give you everything you need to complete the work, task, job, etc. that he assigned you to do - not according to your ability, but his ability to work through you.
Faith isn't in your ability to do something, but your faith in God giving the work to you. God has given you the assignement; he has called you to do this and he will give you everything you need in order to do this, not because of your own ability, but because of his ability through you. - Shauna Van Dyke
Heb. 12
The faith in knowing that we have a loving father who is using times like these a means to healing our souls. - Jeremy Lelek
hardship is usually the primary means that produces faith in us. Mike Van Dyke
There is an active and passive reality to faith. Mike Van Dyke

Email us at topics@speakthetruth.net

EP. 53 Navigating Fear & Anxiety Part 2: Three-fold Plan For Responding to COVID-19

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 12 Apr 2020 23:00:00 -0500

COVID-19 Anxiety & Fear: P2

Phil. 4:4-9

3 fold plan for responding to COVID-19
- Praying
- Thinking biblically
- And living biblically

Anxiety - "its a feeling of worry, nervousness, uneasiness, or distress over a real or a perceived threat." - Shauna Van Dyke

Helpful Resources

COVID - Anxiety Article

EP. 52 Navigating Fear & Anxiety: COVID-19's Modified Impact on Our Normalcy

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 10:15:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

The hosts start riffing about how COVID-19 has impacted everyone in some measure and trying to find a new normal.
Please pray for Jeremy's wife, Lynne as she continues to fight on the front lines here in Fort Worth.
Proverbs 12.25 - without a good word ( a word of real hope), how do those without Christ navigate this?
There is no neutrality, there has to be something stronger, like faith, to combat the anxiety where it replaces the anxious heart and thoughts.
because there is no neutrality in the heart of man, if there is no object of faith stronger than the object of anxiety to cast that out then how can one manage - legitimately.
Rom. 8.35-39 - God's promises are objects of faith to cast out the objects of fear and anxiety.
Worry assumes the allusion of control on things we aren't in control over. - David Powlison
1 Pet. 5.6-10
Phil 4.8-9

EP. 51 Unpacking Diagnoses: Paranoid Personality Disorder - DSM Criteria & Biblical Explanation

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 18:20:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

"We, in biblical counseling, we do acknowledge that our story shapes our heart. Our story does have a shaping impact on the struggles that we might be dealing with." -Jeremy Lelek, Speak The Truth, EP. 51 Unpacking Diagnoses: Paranoid Personality Disorder (importance of data gathering - context added)

DSM Criteria:

Pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following: • Suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving him/her. • Is preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends/associates. • Is reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against him/her. • Persistently bears grudges, i.e., is unforgiving of insults, injuries, remarks, or events. • Perceives attacks on his/her character or reputation that are not apparent to others and is quick to react angrily or to counterattack. • Has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner.

Biblical Explanation:

The Bible is very clear in stating: “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25). Additionally, Paul attributes evil suspicion and strife to those who do not “consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness…” (I Timothy 6:3- 5). With no fear of the Lord in their hearts, these individuals may engage in (Romans 3:18): • Devising wicked schemes in their hearts (Proverbs 6:18) • Having feet quick to rush into evil (Proverbs 6:14) • Bearing false witness (Proverbs 6:19) • Pouring out filthy lies (Proverbs 6:19) • Stirring up dissension (Proverbs 6:19) • Grumbling against others (James 5:9) • Having mouths full of cursing and bitterness (Romans 3:14) • Fearing man and not God (people will see, hurt, or reject me, Welch, 2000) (Proverbs 25:29; Romans 3:18) • Slanderous accusations (Proverbs 10:18) • Allowing a “root of bitterness” to spring forth which defiles many (Romans 12:15) • Bearing grudges (Leviticus 19:18)

Resources From Episode:

When People Are Big And God Is Small - Ed Welch

EP. 50 Unpacking Diagnoses: DSM Criteria For General Personality Disorder & Biblical Explanation

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

DSM-IV Criteria for “Personality Disorder (general)”

Enduring pattern of inner experience or behavior that deviates markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture including the areas of
- • Cognition • Affectivity • Interpersonal functioning • Impulsive control
The pattern is enduring and inflexible as well as pervasive across a broad range of personal and social situations
Enduring pattern leads to clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
The pattern is stable and of long duration and its onset can be traced back to at least adolescence or early adulthood.
Pattern is not accounted for by another mental disorder.
Pattern is not due to direct physiological effects of a substance. American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 2000.

Biblical Explanation for: “Personality Disorder (general)”

The so-called “Personality Disorders” (i.e. paranoid, narcissistic, etc.) are simply descriptions of long-term behavioral, emotional, interpersonal, and thought patterns developed by an individual over a period of time.
The Bible clearly articulates the influence of depravity and sin on a person’s behavior, thinking, and feeling. Therefore the influence of the “law of sin” must be a focal point for individuals citing these labels (Ephesians 2:3).
Following the flesh always leads to further corruption, death, and darkness (Ephesians 4:22-24, Romans 8:5).
Adams (1979), citing II Peter 2:14, discusses the idea of “habituation” in which sinful patterns spawn (and reinforce) sinful patterns (p. 243).
Powlison (1996) highlights the fact that people don’t “have” disorders, they “do” what the so-called “diagnoses” (to the left) describe (p. 3). This is especially so, it seems, as it relates to “Personality Disorders”. This is an imperative conceptualization that will shape one’s approach when dealing with such individuals.

Episode Resources:

James K.A. Smith - You Are What You Love

EP. 49 Unpacking Diagnoses: Unpacking Diagnoses: DSM Criteria For ADHD Symptomologies With A Biblical Explanation Part 2

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes

DSM CRITERIA

Hyperactivity • Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat. • Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected. • Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate • Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly • Is often “on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor” • Often talks excessively

Impulsivity • Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed • Often has difficulty awaiting turn • Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or games)

BIBLICAL EXPLANATION

BIBLICAL DESCRIPTORS

Hyperactivity • Lack of self-control • Struggles with an anxious heart • Disrespect for authority • Low view of obedience • Fatigue due to lack of rest • Personal Weakness • Rebellion • Selfishness

Impulsivity • Quick to speak, slow to listen • An unrepentant heart • Impatience • Disrespectful • Self-centered or selfish

Tweetable: "children that typically stand out under the diagnoses of this umbrella once they enter into a school system are young boys because boys are wired to active and once they get in the confines of a classroom for the first time, they're going to run into some struggles that our culture has decided to label as a disease." Jeremy Lelek - Speak The Truth Podcast EP. 49 Unpacking Diagnoses: ADHD Part 2

Episode Mentions - Resources:

Am I just My Brain - Sharon Dirckx

EP. 48 Unpacking Diagnoses: DSM Criteria For ADHD Symptomologies With A Biblical Explanation Part 1

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0500

Psychiatric explanation of ADHD by DSM-IV-TR
- Inattention (6 symptoms that persisted at least six months)
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, or other activities • Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities • Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly • Often does not follow through with instructions, and fails to finish school work, chores, or duties in the workplace • Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities • Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g. toys, assignments, pencils, books, or tools). • Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli • Is often forgetful in daily activities
- Hyper activity
- Impulsivity
Biblical explanation
- Spiritual issues that could be contributing
- Inattention (Potential heart issues) • Depravity/Folly/Law of Sin • Personal weakness (spiritual/physical) • Self-centeredness or selfishness • Disrespect for authority • Lack of consideration for others • Habit of laziness • Lack of understanding regarding the importance of obeying authority figures • Failure to grasp the significance of worshipping God in “whatever you do” (I Corinthians 10:31) • An anxious heart • Craving for attention • Lover of pleasure • Conscious rebellion • Confusion • Anger

EP. 47 Unpacking Diagnoses: Bipolar Disorder - Comparing DSM & Biblical Symptomologies

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0600

DSM-IV Criteria for DSM-IV-TR Criteria for “Manic Episode” “Manic Episode”
1. A distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, lasting at least 1 week.
2. Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
3. More talkative than usual or pressures to keep talking.
4. Flight of ideas or subjective experience that thoughts are racing.
5. Distractibility
6. Increase in goal-directed activity (either socially, at work or school, or sexual activity).
7. Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities that have a high potential for painful consequences (e.g. engaging in unrestrained buying sprees, sexual indiscretions, or foolish business investments). American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 2000.
Biblical Explanation for Biblical Explanation for
“Manic Episode”
Following are biblical descriptors that more accurately describe the spiritual issues that foster behavior and thinking:
• Anger/Fits of Rage
• Pride
• Anxiety
• Selfish Ambition
• Fear
• Self-Control
• Drunkenness
• Sexual Immorality/Adultery
• Foolishness/Folly
• Idolatry such as:
 Control
 Significance
 Pleasure
 Acceptance
 Approval
 Security
 Power

Resources Mention:
Elyse Fitzpatrick & Laura Hendrickson: Will Medicine Stop the Pain?: Finding God's Healing for Depression, Anxiety, and Other Troubling Emotions

EP. 46 Unpacking Diagnoses: Major Depressive Episode(s) According To The DSM & The Bible

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes

DSM-IV Criteria for DSM-IV-TR Criteria for “Manic Episode” “Major Depressive Episode”

1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, as indicated by either subjective report (feels sad or empty) or observations made by others.

2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day, nearly every day.

3. Significant weight loss when not dieting or substantial weight gain.

4. Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day.

5. Fatigue or loss of energy every day.

6. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt (which may be delusional) nearly every day.

7. Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly every day.

1. Recurrent thoughts of death...recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt or a specific plan of attempting suicide

American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 2000.

Biblical Explanation for Biblical Explanation for

“Manic Episode” “Major Depressive Episode”

Following are biblical descriptors that more accurately describe the spiritual issues that foster behavior and thinking:

• Depression

• Hopelessness

• Worry

• Selfishness

• Double-Minded

• Misplaced Trust

• Pride

• Depravity/Sin

• Grief

• Idolatry such as:
 Peace at all Cost  Significance
 Symptom Relief  Security
 Control

If you're a member of ABC, The unpacking diagnoses forms and handouts are in the back office at christiancounseling.com

EP. 45 Unpacking A Diagnoses: What Is The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM) & Important Disclaimer

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke, Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 16 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0600

The disclaimer is to help pastors, biblical counselors, and lay leaders to engage the culture with this material.

– Understanding the DSM and its terms

– Not feeling intimidated by labels

– Diagnostic damnation - the label becomes the person’s identity

– Everyone has a worldview, a lense, a conceptual lens in which they view everything

– Secular psychology pushes, what does my theory say - so our theory informs our methodology

– The DSM is the bible of Psychiatry

– when we encounter these labels, we’re not counseling them, we're counseling the heart - according to scripture

EP. 44 2020 ABC Called To Counsel Conference: The Kingdom Is At Hand: 7 Tracks 8 Sessions Per Track

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 09 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

◎ There will be 4 pre-conference sessions

◎ John Henderson (Author Of The Equipped To Counsel Curriculum)

◎ Elise Fitzpatrick - Author of numerous books

◎ Lee Lewis

◎ Panel Discussion

◎ Conference Theme

◎ The Kingdom is at hand - Mk. 1:15

◎ Whats the location we find ourselves counseling, its in the Kingdom of God.

◎ Counseling with eternity in mind.

◎ There are 7 Tracks and each track has 8 sessions

◎ Introduction To Biblical Counsleing

◎ Addictions

◎ Anxiety

◎ Depression

◎ Domestic Abuse

◎ Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

◎ Marriage

EP. 43 Practicing Spiritual Disciplines In Counseling: Accountable Relationships

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 23:30:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

◎ Not doing life with one another is all too often the case with most of the believers.

◎ Heb. 10:23-25

◎ Are there believers in our life that have the right to examine our life; when we’re with counselee’s, we want to gather enough data to make sure we know what the reality is of our counselee’s relational church-life.

◎ we need people in our lives who will speak to what we need to hear rather than what we want to hear.

◎ we need to encourage our counselee’s to find someone who can come into the counseling room with them if those they choose will walk with them outside the counseling room.

◎ being persecuted isn’t always provoked by others, but it's saying no to things of this world that don't promote spiritual growth.

◎ What do our counselee’s need to say no to so they’ll be spiritually fit to promote their relationships, both vertically and horizontally.

ABC Conference Clip

Welcome to Speak The Truth, and before we get into our next episode, I’d like to share with you the 2020 Called To Counsel National Conference brought to you by Association of Biblical Counselors - The conference kicks off April 23-25 at Doxology Bible Church located in Fort Worth, TX. This year's specialized tracks include -

• Introduction to Biblical Counseling

• Depression

• Domestic Abuse

• Addictions

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Marriage

• Anxiety

Registration is open, register today at
calledtocounsel.com

EP. 42 Practicing Spiritual Disciplines In Counseling: Cultivating A Prayer Life

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 26 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

The Lord’s Prayer

◎ “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard with their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this:

◎ Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

◎ Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

◎ And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

◎ God Is:

◎ Father

◎ King

◎ Provider

◎ Forgiver

◎ Deliverer

◎ A.C.T.S. Acronym

◎ Adoration

◎ Confession

◎ Thanksgiving

◎ Supplication

Episode Resources:
Prayer of Jesus - Hank Hanegraaff
The Lord's Prayer - Thomas Watson

EP. 41 Practicing Spiritual Disciplines In Counseling: Engaging Scripture

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 19 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

◎ The church is struggling in helping their congregations with spiritual disciplines.

◎ Helping our people how to study scripture, practice meditating, having a praying life, and the relational aspects of being a follower with accountable relationships.

◎ Prayer quote, “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Martin Luther.

◎ Spiritual disciplines grow from duty, as a discipline, to a matter of devotion…..to the point where you dont feel right when the disciplines aren’t practiced.

◎ Many people come to counseling with a desire for practicing spiritual disciplines, but they don’t have any direction. So they don’t practice much as a family, so leading the home as men are called to do, doesn’t happen outside of going to church.

EP. 40 Gen Z Perspective On Being A Christian In Their Immediate Context In Our Culture

Mike& Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 21:35:00 -0600

Gen Z Perspective on being Christian in the culture - their culture.

◎ Our two sons, Dustin (18), Jaxson (13), give their perspective of being Christian in their context.

◎ Their perspective on youth group night, their experience and thoughts on what’s talked about verses not talked about, what's missing from the youth context, etc.

EP. 39 Our Teens Perspective On Growing Up In A Blended Family

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 05 Jan 2020 19:30:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

◎ Growing up between both households felt like two different worlds.

◎ Having one strong side towards the faith and having the other side nonexistent was difficult.

◎ In encouraging the church to help with families in blended families, I would focus on the youth and talk more about what our struggles are.

EP. 38 Parenting: Part 3: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 15 Dec 2019 21:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

Principles 11-14:

1. False gods. Principle: you are parenting a worshiper, so it's important to remember that what rules your child’s heart will control their behavior.

2. Control. Principle: the goal of parenting is not control of behavior, but rather heart and life change.

3. Rest. Principle: It only rests in God’s presence and grace that will make you a joyful and patient parent.

4. Mercy. Principle: No parent gives mercy better than one who is convinced that they desperately need it themselves.

Remember to email us topics at topics@speakthetruth.org

Also, please leave us a review and rate the podcast.....Thank you!

Episode Resources:

On the Road with Saint Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts - James K.A. Smith

EP. 37 Parenting: Part 2 - 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Parenting

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 21:20:00 -0600

Principles 6 - 10:

1. Process - Principle: you must be committed as a parent to long-view parenting because change is a process and not an event.

2. Lost - Principle: As a parent you’re not dealing just with bad behavior, but a condition that causes bad behavior.

3. Authority - Principle: one of the foundational heart issues in the life of every child is authority. Teaching and modeling the protective beauty of authority is one of the foundations of good parenting.

4. Foolishness - Principle: the foolishness inside your children is more dangerous to them than the tempation outside of them. Only God’s grace has the power to rescue fools.

5. Character - Principle: not all of the wrong your children do is a direct rebellion to authority; much of the wrong is a result of a lack of character.

Email us at topics@speakthetruth.org with any topics you'd like us to discuss!!

Episode Resources:
Association of Biblical Counselors - Resources

EP.36: Parenting - 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family Part 1

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 01 Dec 2019 22:55:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

First 5 Principles

1. Calling - Principle: Nothing is more important in your life than being one of God’s tools to form a human soul. The Why.

2. Grace - Principle: God never calls you to a task without giving you what you need to do it. He never sends you without going with you. The How.

Lelek Quote “God’s grace is more committed to their transformation and good than we will ever be.”

3. Law - Principle: Your children need God’s law, but you cannot ask the law to do what only grace can accomplish.

4. Inability - Principle: Recognize what you are unable to do is essential to good parenting.

5. Identity - Principle: If you are not resting as a parent in your identity in Christ, you will look for identity in your children.

Episode Resources:
Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family - Paul David Tripp

EP. 35 LGBTQ Self-Identity Limitations Part 2: Moving Beyond The Bio-Psycho-Social

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 21:40:00 -0600

The Cultural and Moral Crisis: Terrorist Identity

In their book, The Terrorist Identity, Michael P. Arena and Bruce Arrigo (Arrigo is a Professor of Crime, Law, and Society at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte) share their research on the social variables that influence what they call the terrorist identity. They are considering this issue through the lens of Social Identity Theory (a theory that only considers the Biological and Psychosocial strata). Regarding what they refer to as the martyr-identity developed by many terrorists they write:

Perhaps the most poignant illustration of the role that significant others plays with respect to instilling the martyr identity within extremist militants is observable in a photo in Hebron in 2002. The photograph featured the gunman’s infant son dressed in military fatigues complete with a suicide bomber’s harness. Although not all significant others in a fledgling martyr’s life are supportive of such an identity, classmates, teachers, fellow recruits, parents, and family members serve to repeatedly remind some of their shaheed path, obligation, and destiny. Indeed, the social martyr and the extrinsic gratification one receives from significant others causes one to become more committed to this identity. This heightened and intensified commitment increases the identity salience and its proclivity to be activated in a variety of situations (p. 149). (maybe mention the idea of the identity that is “on-line”).

Summary: Sadly, while these authors offer helpful insight, they also view such people as socially constructed machines prepared to activate a specific identity in particular situations. I find this heartbreaking. But, in reference to our current inquiry, we must ask the question: Within the realm of what Transpersonal Psychologist, Ken Wilber, refers to as Flatland, or what I’m referring to as the domains of the biological and psychosocial, on what basis does anyone have the right to strip this young Muslim man from self-identifying as a martyr, finding purpose in that identity, and then carrying out the impulses brought forth by this identity? The materialist idea that the ethics of right and wrong required to judge this young man’s actions are effectively cultivated by culture falls short here. If I immersed myself with this individual for 30 days, it would become profoundly clear that his culture is unquestionably shaping him with an ethic specific to and reasonably prescribed by his culture. If I witnessed his little brother mutilated by an American drone missile and the social response and reinforcements on his identity that such tragedy evoked, then of course his actions are reasonable. According to social theory, who could deny him of this identity and on what basis? Therefore, operating from his self-identity, the idea that it is good and right to kill self and others is sufficiently in accordance with his socially constructed self. To attempt to apply the label of deviant to his identity and actions, within the realm of Flatland, is inconsistent. Who is right? Is anyone right? How do we know?

Isolated in the biological and psychosocial domains, we are left to either reside in what Harvard philosopher, Charles Taylor, describes as the “self-delusion”—a place where we assume all morals are on the same level. In this delusion, we are required to place the self-identity (and the actions pursuant to that identity) of this young terrorist on the same ethical level as our own. Tragically, we must submit to the reality of nihilism. Otherwise, we will need to reconsider the notion that self and culture are sufficient reference points for fully understanding identity and morality.

The Empirical Crisis: Limits Cited in the Literature

The final limit of self-identity that I will propose is acknowledged by experts in the field. While considering this issue from the lay-level our culture may assume that the case for self-identity is closed, however, a cursory reading of the literature would indicate otherwise. Consider three experts on the matter:

Dr. Daphna Oyserman, Kristen Elmore and George Smith (2012) of the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan state the following:

A rich array of social science theories assumes that the self matters for life choices and behavior, but a similarly robust body of evidence that this so has yet to be assembled. The theory-evidence gap means that, to date, self and identity theories may or may not provide robust models of what self and identity do and how they function…given a large number of publications evoking the self and identity as explanatory factors, failing to attend to the theory evidence gap means that the field as a whole has not made as much progress as might be hoped in understanding self and identity as mental constructs and as forces for action…At worst, the self may not matter at all.

Dr. Jeffery Jensen Arnett of Clark University offers another limitation in the Oxford Handbook of Identity Development (2015). He notes regarding adolescent development research:

…the vast majority of the research on adolescents so far has been conducted in the United States and Canada, and Western Europe. What I have called the ‘neglected 95%’—the vast human population that lives outside the United States—has been almost entirely neglected by research on adolescent identity development.

Finally, Dr. Michael Gerson of California Lutheran University points out the following:

The self and identity have an extensive history in the psychoanalytic literature, as well as general psychology and sociology, and have received renewed attention in the neuroscience literature…Furthermore, these terms figure prominently in discussions of adolescent crises and conflicts, wherein self and identity represent significant distinctions regarding how one knows one’s self or how one is known to others. Neither term, however, has consistent usage in the psychological literature, despite the fact that they appear in tens of thousands of citations.

Citing Westin and Heim, Gerson then concurs with them “that self is a construct suffering from identity confusion.

Summary: Considering the plethora of studies within the literature in the area of identity, we may conclude that many insightful advances have transpired. However, a final conceptual understanding of identity and self-identity are far from resolved. According to just three experts cited above, much more will be required to prove what the various theories in the field purport in their theoretical supposition. We are limited in our empirical development.

Beyond the Bio-Psychosocial—The Spiritual Order: Johnson explains of this order, the spiritual stratum has to do with the ‘things above’ (Col. 3:2) or the realities in the heavenly places. This order points us to the conclusion of St. Augustine in his Confessions: “Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee!

A biblical understanding of people and identity does not exclude any of the previous orders discussed in t...

EP. 34 LGBTQ Part 1: Self-Identity Limitations - Is Self A Socially Constructed Product

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 17 Nov 2019 22:10:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

What do I, as a Christian, believe about Self-Identity, and are there limits?
Orders of Meaning (Johnson, Foundations of Soul Care, 2007).

The Biological Order: “...the platform for all higher psychological functioning” (Johnson, p. 336).

Genetic determinants (i.e., height, eye color, male/female)
Pre-natal development
Neuronal maturation
Neuronal structures
Brain-structures

The Psychosocial Order: By psychosocial order, we are referring to the immaterial dynamic structures that originate in social interaction (Johnson, p. 337).

Sensations
Perceptions
Stimulus-Responses
Imaginations
Concepts
Schemas

Summary:

It is these two strata that sociological and psychological research on human nature, identity, and self has exclusively focused.
Logical positivism dismisses anything that cannot be measured or empirically validated through the Scientific Method. Therefore, the sciences of the self are limited to these two strata.
The self becomes the ultimate reference point.

Limits to Self-Identity As I See Them (these 1st two strata are informative)
The Ontological Crisis—a crisis in my sense of being.
If all that exists is the Biological and Psychosocial strata then there can be no claim of an actual self. Who you are and who I am are merely mental constructions formulated and organized through our neural networks as we engage in our social environments. When I, Jeremy Lelek, was born, I did not possess a self. I was simply a human with the potential to become a self. There was no inner “I” to discover or an inner “I” knowable by God, rather, who I am today is a complete cognitive construction. In other words, existence precedes essence. If this sounds far-fetched, consider the conclusions of the experts.
Dr. Daphna Oyserman, Kristen Elmore, and George Smith of the Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan wrote, “Self and identity theories converge in asserting that self and identity are mental constructs, that is, something represented in memory” (p.75)...They also assert that the assumption of a stable self is “belied by the malleability, context-sensitivity, and dynamic construction of the self as a mental construct. Identities are not fixed markers people assume them to be but are instead dynamically constructed in the moment” (p. 70).
Sheldon Stryker, Indiana University, Bloomington writes, Identities are self-cognitions tied to roles and, through roles, to positions in organized social relationships.
Steven Hitlin, University of Iowa writes, The self is a socially constructed product of symbolic actors interacting with social environments.
Bruce Hood, Professor of Developmental Psychology, the University of Bristol and former Research Fellow at Cambridge University writes, This core self, wandering down the path of development, enduring things that life throws at us is, however, the illusion. Like every other aspect of human development, the emergence of the self is epigenetic—an interaction of the genes in the environment (p. 114).

Summary: If self is an illusion, then this leaves us all in a very uncertain predicament. If, as the famed psychologist, William James has said, we have as many selves as the people with whom we interact, and if we are continually forced to reconstruct ourselves based on cultural or contextual situations, and if we are simply material beings driven by natural selection, then we exist in the reality that we are mere cogs in a machine genetically motivated by ultimate survival. We are destined to exist in an illusion as though it ultimately matters.

The Existential Crisis—The Crisis of Stability and Meaning
Self-Identity is innately egocentric and individualistic and tends to follow the individualization thesis which, according to Dr. Rob Whitley in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, “posits that people in post-modern societies are becoming increasingly detached and disembedded from traditional institutions, including extended family, religious congregations, trade unions, and local communities. These ‘mediating structures’ are posited to provide fellowship, identity, and meaning to life.
While Dr. Whitley mentions some benefits to the post-modern ethos, such as new freedoms for formerly restricted groups, his article cites various experts in the fields of sociology, philosophy and psychology who articulate grave concerns regarding the collision of post-modernism and egocentrism. These concerns include:
The emergence of the idea of the “empty self” “devoid of meaningful content and connections, a self that is filled up by consumerism and other activities specific to postmodernity.
A diminished capacity to securely navigate risk and unpredictability leading to a sense of despair.
Rise of substance abuse, personality disorders, and associated para-suicide in Western societies.
Acts of self-harm as a means to fill the “empty self”
Developing anorexia and bulimia as a means to forge a distinctive identity.
Whitley concludes that in the West especially, “…individuals must engage in constant self-interrogation vis-à-vis day-to-day living to ensure that their current social roles and identities are commensurate with wider values and appropriate changing contexts” (p. 356).

Summary: It seems that one element of the new age in which people are seeking identity within the biological and psychosocial strata exclusively is that many of them are struggling to find a genuine sense of meaning and a secure sense of self. As I read through various articles citing similar concerns as mentioned above the words of the celebrated French existential philosopher, Jean Paul Sarte, came to mind: “No finite point has meaning without an infinite reference point.” Or T.S. Eliot’s chilling poem, Hollow Men, in which he penned:

We are the hollow men

We are the stuffed men

Leaning together

Headpiece filled with straw. Alas!

Shape without form, shade without color,

Paralyzed force, gesture without motion;…

The 3rd Crisis brings us into Dr. Johnson’s Ethical Order—What are our values?
The Psychological Crisis—What is my epistemology?
If Self-Identity is simply a mental construct, then by what standard do I judge my constructs as being true or false, accurate or inaccurate? How do I know what I know? Is society my standard? Is self my standard? How do I know either of these are correct? This not only creates a problem for the individual person, but it creates tension for the fields of psychiatry, psychology, and sociology as well. For example, the ethics of psychology and counseling encourage what is called a value-neutral stance when working with others. Bringing one’s personal value judgments into the process of therapy would be unethical. Let’s consider the psychological struggle this creates for the individual as well as the practitioner seeking to help him/her.
Body Dysmorphic Di...

EP. 33 Bonus: Made To Minister Conference: Biblical Counseling Impact In Local Church Community Groups & Pastor's & Staff W/Pete Potloff

Mike Van Dyke — Sun, 10 Nov 2019 22:20:00 -0600

Pete’s Pastoral Journey

◎ Corban University

Western Baptist College

◎ Being a pastor was about preaching, or so he thought.

◎ Has been involved within a lot of ministry groups.

◎ Biblical Counseling

◎ the staff went through the equipped to counsel

◎ They also went through Self-Confrontation

◎ Learning to apply the word/counseling to the hurt of man

◎ Using Self-Confrontation and equipped to counsel as resources - systematically, and practically

◎ Biblical Counseling has really helped him as a pastor/shepherd

◎ If I was bringing in any staff, I would have them go through some sort of regimented curriculum of biblical counseling, especially pastors/teachers because it's more than just teaching, it's caring for souls.

◎ come in and earn the trust of the sheep.

◎ His pastor poured into him and discipled him.

◎ Having a heart for the people, it's not just teaching the people.

◎ It’s the work of the ministry before its the teaching of the ministry.

Episode Resources:

EP. 32 Made To Minister Conference: Book Review With Author of Journey: A Path To Biblical Change - A Unique Resource Written For Anyone Experiencing Trials or Suffering

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 22:10:00 -0600

Journey started as homework components that were created as counseling was happening.
Application questions
Theological concepts that continued to come up regardless of the format
Drawing out charts with those who were being counseled, turning that into charts that could be reproducible.
The counselor can actually use the book with those receiving biblical counseling - starting with the gospel and building on the gospel with theological tracks.
Establishing the fundamentals with the counselee’s; who is God, what do they think about God, do they know how scripture reveals God.
Each chapter has reflective questions that can be used with the counselee that interacts the material.
The resource was written to bring someone along; a lay leader can use this resource with someone in the faith, at work, or someone who is beginning biblical counseling.
The counselee’s use this book by reading the chapter as a homework assignment, talk about it, how it may have applied to the counselee’s life, and then answer the reflective questions, and then discuss them in the next session.
It helps the counselee notice when they lean back into a man-centered perspective instead of a God-centered perspective.

Episode Resources:
Journey: A Path To Biblical Change - Laura Chica
Made To Minister Website - Resources

Experience Bible Studies - Emily Dempster & Julie Bernard

EP. 31 Made To Minister - Salem Oregon: Ministering To A Culture With The Highest Rate of Depression, Anxiety, Suicide Attempts In The Country With The Least Amount Of Professional Help

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 27 Oct 2019 22:20:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

– Made to minister Regional Conference W/Carl & Laura Chica from Salem Heights Church.

– The Unfortunate Reality of Oregon’s mental illness epidemic among children and adolesence; they have the highest rate of suiscide attempts, depression, and anxiety in the country and don’t have the help they need to meet the need with licensed professional counselors.

– Most folks are having to wait several weeks to receive help, so they’ve bee working

– Suicidality; 4 pepople above the national average

– 1,800/kids per national helath professional vs. Oregon’s average 10k/kids per national health professional

– One of our children has walked through mental illness, so it has prepared us for what God had brought to us as the church.

– Their church need began to be known among the community to where they were receiving a great response for real help that the state and state sponosored help wasn’t able to provide help to the extent they were able to provide.

– Over n’ Over again, they noticed the church and the church commiunity was able to provide a sense of purpose and help, namely Christ, that people were able to experience real hope and life change.

– Most of those who struggle with mental illness isolate themselves, but the biblical community of the church helps provide a loving accontablity.

– Made To Minister is “made” to come along someone who needs help, ministering. The state isn’t able to accomplish that in of iteself.

– One of the struggles is that, historically, the church has reduced mental illness/struggles is that it can be resolved with more reading of scripture, prayer, etc. So we’ve drawn attention to the physiological reality of the implications of mental illness.

– The millenial generation has been labeled the therapy generation; they’re open to emotional struggles. They’re saying that 51% of them have addmitted to losing a job because of emotional dispositions and supposed mental illnesses.

– Join us to help minister -

Episode Resources

EP. 30 From The Made To Minister Regional Conference: Biblical Counseling In A Secular Culture

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 22:35:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

– Salem Heights, Lead Pastor, Justin Greene,

– Carl Chica, Pastor of pastoral care & counseling

– Bringing biblical counseling in their local church context, origin, and development of biblical counseling in their church; the impact in the local church and in the community at large.

– The ministry started to happen naturally; given the need and just starting counseling as the need came.

– It began small but had a quick and immediate impact within the body, so they started equipping the lay leaders in their church.

– Being a light in a dark place like Oregon where the need is so great.

– Be Bold - Street Ministry going back into the streets that they were delivered from.

– Identifying leaders; observing those who were responding richly to the Word of God, who do people go to when they're having problems, etc.

– Having a person aside from you so we don’t isolate - having a person walking alongside the struggling.

– They hired a pastor to build the counseling ministry.

– What’s the need? Determining the need determines the process and decision of the counseling ministry.

– We’re working together, it's an “in tandem” approach.

– Pursue discipleship, be available to others; leaders don’t have to wait, serve now.

– Pastor’s don’t have to be territorial, they just need to be available.

– Paul needed a Barnabas, so find them, and cultivate them, and launch them out in your church.

Episode Resources:
Made To Minister Website & Resources
Salem Heights Church
Email Questions To: topics@speakthetruth.net

EP. 29 Launching A Biblical Counseling Ministry In A Established Church W/Pastor Andy Swart

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:20:00 -0500

Episode Notes
Moving from Planting (Metro Church) to an already established church (The Mount).
Creating an environment that allows people to struggle, starting from the platform.
Truth Renewed isn’t a replacement for the church regarding counseling, but an overflow of care.
Truth Renewed is a training center to help equip church leaders to become biblical counselors and launch biblical counseling in the local church.
Trident of ministry; robust theology, organization strategy, counsel and care.
In the same way, we raise up leaders to make Sunday happen, we need to raise up care leaders for the rest of the week - where ministry lives.
Don’t stop plowing, it takes time to bring life change and equipping the saints.
Trust the process of sanctification.
Find those in your congregation who are gifted in caring for others, they’re serious about God’s Word and the process of transformation, and scholarship them.
Find a line item in your budget to cultivate the saints in soul care.
The posture of a pastor should be a leader of learning.
Sunday morning is to edify the saints.
Email us on any topics; topics@speakthetruth.org
Reach out to Shauna if you’d like to start a biblical counseling ministry @ christiancounseling.com

Episode Resources:

The Mount Church
Metro Church
Rage Ministries
Instruments in the Redeemer's Hand's
Christiancounseling.com
Information about training your lay leaders as biblical counselors or becoming a training center, email Shauna, Shauna@christiancounseling.com

EP. 28 Bonus Episode: “Scriptural Encouragement” for our calling - God's Word, The Mean's For The Mission

Mike & Shauna Van dyke & Special Guest Ronnie Mills — Sun, 06 Oct 2019 22:00:00 -0500

Six Scriptural Truths that we need to focus on:

Gal. 1.10 - Trusting in the LORD. What we trust is where our fear comes from.
Faith is the willingness to look foolish.
Humility - it’s not about me, but the work that God is accomplishing through me.
James 3.13-18 - Wisdom from above, anything else is demonic.
Jn 20.21 - Peace in the Father’s Will.
Ezk. 2: 1-6: God’s will over man’s; we’ve been called into this co-prophets of God’s gospel - man won’t hear it all the time, but God has given us the “go-and-make” call, the gospel is prophetic!
Col. 3.15-17 - Thankfulness
Pro. 29.25 - Safty

EP. 27 Biblical Counseling & Church Planting: Establishing A Biblical Counseling Culture From The Beginning

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

As a podcast devoted to biblical truth for counseling & discipleship for the counselor and local church, we wanted to invite our friend, Ronnie Mills,
Pastor of Kingdom Chapel North Fort Worth
Baptist Missionary Association of Texas help Ronnie launch out in their church plant
Kingdom Chapel is located Alliance Christian Academy
Biblical counseling training has greatly improved his discipleship efforts and his preaching.
Biblical counseling has already begun to be rooted in the DNA of the church, so we can raise up leaders through discipleship and biblical counseling to strengthen the body, and keep it healthy.
Email Speak The Truth about getting a biblical counseling ministry started in your church; topics@speakthetruth.org
5 Resolves for soul care
God has called me
God has gone before me
Pastor now - shepherd now
Stay relative to “us”. .....
Raise leaders - we can’t do this on our own.
The hardest thing about church planting is putting yourself out there.
Fear of man becomes a huge struggle for putting yourself out there as leaders.

Episode Resources:

EP. 26 Case Study: Angry Andy Part 2 - Scriptural References & Homework

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 22 Sep 2019 22:50:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

◎ Scriptural examples: Jer. 17.5 - a powerful diagnostic

◎ living a cursed life when we anchor our lives in the flesh of our selves and others; living life in our own way.

◎ Ps. 1

◎ a thriving fruitful tree even in a time of drought.

◎ Where does he place the location of the problem?

◎ How much change would be established if he changed his routines?

◎ Does he understand his own anger?

◎ Proverbs, Psalms, etc. speak to the nature of anger; who’s is the object of his anger?

◎ Jer. 17.9-10; human nature demonstrates the nature of the heart, how is he examining his heart and the result of anger?

EP. 25: Angry Andy - Case Study: Why is Andy Angry - Data Gathering

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 15 Sep 2019 22:45:00 -0500

Episode Notes:
◎ Andy reports being angry all the time
◎ Things we would address with Andy based on the summary of his behavior and his own perspective on life
◎ what does he think is going on
◎ what does he really get angry about
◎ Does Andy have a victim mindset?
◎ Was he motivated by his dad’s approval?
◎ What is uninteresting about God
◎ Does he consider himself as a Christian?
◎ More discussion around his understanding of God.
◎ How does he understand his own anger?
◎ What does Andy think his problem is?

EP. 24 SELF-CARE BONUS EPISODE: IS The Sabbath A Relevant Consideration Towards Our Self-Care?

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 08 Sep 2019 23:55:00 -0500

Episode Notes:
Marks from Joseph Pipa's book - The LORD's Day
◎ Scriptures: Isa 58:13-14; The purpose of the Sabbath -

◎ pg. 13; 17 (Rev. 1.10)

Original Intent Gen. 2.1-3;

◎ The market day of the Soul Exod. 20.9-11;

◎ pg. 42; 44-45;

First Day Sabbath Heb. 4.9-10

Ex. 20:8-15: In the same way the 7th commandment speaks to the ordinance of marriage - the creational mandate - by not committing adultery, and the 8th structures the creation ordinance of work.

Episode Resources:
Joseph Pipa - The Lord's Day

James K. A. SMITH - HOW NOT TO BE SECULAR

James Taylor - Secular Age

EP. 23 Self-Care & Biblical Counseling: Establishing A Rhythm Of Rest In Ministry To Prevent Burnout

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 14:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

◎ Self-Care: how to avoid burnout.

◎ Going beyond our Sunday services and quite times to ensure we’re investing in our soul’s with God’s Word.

◎ Psalm 73.26, not Psalm. 76.13, there is no verse 13.

◎ 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (Ps. 73.26)

◎ Establishing a rhythm of rest at least one day of the week.

◎ Physically, Spiritually, Intellectually, Emotionally

◎ Ps. 46.10

◎ A way to prevent taking things home is resting in the theological doctrine of God’s sovereignty - realizing God’s care and concern for those that we’re counseling.

◎ How do I work through the burden for them and their circumstances and be ok with how my circumstances are not nearly as difficult

◎ Taking those thoughts captive when we begin to feel guilty that our lives aren’t “as bad as others who suffer more”.

◎ Counseling will invariably stir up our own stuff.

◎ Who’s in our life to speak into our life when we get stirred?

◎ Physically, we need to be far more intentional with being active and creating a healthier diet.

◎ Planning is the most important part of self-care.

Episode Resources:

Call the sabbath a delight - Walter J. Chantry

The Lord’s Day - Joseph A. Pipa, JR.

Instruments In the redeemer’s hands - Paul Tripp

EP. 22 Marriage Case Study - Sexual Issues Within The Marriage P2: Offering A Biblical Schema To Thrive

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 25 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:
◎ How would you dig into some of the particulars that they’re struggling with that affecting their sex life and ultimately, their marital life?
◎ how they’re day-to-day grind is affecting their marriage, sexually, emotionally, and intellectually. that they’ve become so horizontally focused that they’ve lost sight of the vertical importance to their horizontal.
◎ Defining the Why of what we do.
◎ Do they see how they're destroying one another?
◎ How can they incarnate a merciful spirit?
◎ Identify the schema of their belief…go to those hurtful places and their beliefs of one another, that reinforces their spirit of justice.
◎ Fill in the blank statements that reveal their primary schema, and begin to offer ways to tweak their thinking.
◎ 1 Pet. 2.16-23; a text to demonstrate our call to good regardless of what’s being done to us.
◎ Working through the biblical category of removing and replacing.

Episode Resources:
◎ Sex and the supremacy of Christ
◎ Sexual Sanity (men)
◎ Sexual Sanity (women)
◎ Christiancounseling.com
◎ Speakthetruth.org

EP.21 Marriage Case Study-Sexual Issues Within The Marriage: Data Gathering

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

– Marital Case study

– Doing a thorough assessment of their sexual backgrounds, what they’ve experienced personally, what they’ve observed by their parents or familial context, etc.

– Are there emotional, physical, or psychological issues that are affecting the there sex life, frequency, duration, etc.

– What’s going on in their hearts?

– Be quicker to focus on the vertical than the horizontal in their marriage.

EP. 20 Self-Forgiveness: Can you forgive yourself?

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

◎ Self Forgiveness: Can you forgive yourself?

◎ In order to have forgiveness, there needs to be an offender and a victim.

◎ People who use this statement are really dealing with something, but this isn't a correct articulation or rendering of what one is working out.

◎ 2 Cor. 7.8-10 is a text that does speak to grief; worldly grief vs. godly grief.

◎ Godly grief produces life and worldly grief produces death.

◎ they need to move through worldly grief, over sin, to godly grief over sin to life and freedom.

◎ We cannot remove or renounce God’s judgment, and pronounce ourselves as judge….we need to humble ourselves and let God be God.

◎ It’s not self-forgiveness, but rather, receiving the full measure of grace that Christ accomplished on the cross.

◎ It's not self-forgiveness, but embracing God’s grace.

◎ Self-forgiveness is emotively based.

◎ The object of godly grief was not to alleviate the grief, but that it would produce something beautiful in a person, an effort to change one’s life.

Episode Resources
- Piper Audio from DesiringGod
- Gospel Coalition Article
- Robert D. Jones Book - I can't forgive myself

EP. 19 Bonus Episode - Counseling & The Church P.3 A Counseling Homework "How to"

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 04 Aug 2019 22:20:00 -0500

◎ The counselor and their counseling methods

◎ How to’s

◎ the time away from the counseling room is where the majority of our method is drawn for homework.

◎ the extent of homework is contingent upon the counselee; every counselee is different therefore, the amount or frequency of any homework is based on the nature of the situation and the person working through it.

◎ ABC offers a variety of "homework helps" for counselors and their counselee’s.

◎ The heart of the matter series; practical sheet - heart log - where the counselee captures the situation, their emotions, thoughts, desires, and behaviors.

◎ Often times, our homework given is based on reorienting someone’s way they interact with scripture.

◎ Watch out for those “Sunday School” answers, help your counselee wrestle by engaging with the scriptures in a way that incites their hearts and their situation.

Episode Resources:

Christian Counseling - counseling homework helps

EP. 18 Counseling & The Church P2: Cultivating Counseling Methods

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0500

Episode summary:
In this episode, the hosts discuss cultivating some counseling methods with the analogy of a farmer, which as biblical counselors we're taking God's Word and sowing it with our counselee's, and the importance of being encouraged through engaging our peers with prayer, and God's Word.

Episode Notes:

Discussion based on Ch. 13 of Jeremy’s new book, “biblical counseling basics”
As Counselor’s we’re bringing access to a myriad of identities; we could be an ambassador for another kingdom, we could be being used as an instrument of mercy and grace.
Biblical counseling is a process of learned dependency.
We're farmers in those moments in counseling; it's God who brings the harvest in someone's life and how he chooses to use the seeds we plant as biblical counselors.
As biblical counselors, we have something that even the most renown scholar in psychology doesn't have, we have the Holy Spirit. And he is even more committed to the people we counsel, so we don't need to be doubtful in our ability.
As a farmer, we're focusing more on the scriptures than the skills.

Ep.17 Counseling & The Church Part 1: Taking Counseling Back To Local Church

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0500

Show Resources:

EP. 16 Humankind & Counseling Part 3: New Heart, New War - Cultivating The New Man

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 14 Jul 2019 23:45:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

A biblical anthropology rooted in the gospel completely rewires human psychology from the way we think and to our affections.
In counseling, we’re not trying to better the old man, but rather, we’re trying to cultivate the new man.
Humanism’s anthropology is to try and better the old man, which cannot accomplish what it sets out to do.
Gospel driven counseling is set to cultivate the new man as described by scripture.
Loyalty war that rages within, the fight for worship. The flesh is set on worshiping creation and self, where the spirit is set on having us worship God.
The Holy Spirit is at work in us to transform our desires, and to set them upon The LORD.
The hierarchy of needs model is a passive heart approach, but a biblical model says the heart will elevate an appropriate desire to an inappropriate level rendering them even sinful.

Episode Resources:

James K. A. Smith You Are What You Love

Johnathan Edwards - The Freedom of the will

Abraham Maslow - Hierarchy of needs

EP. 15 Humankind & Counseling Part 2: Establishing A Biblical Anthropology

Mik & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 07 Jul 2019 23:45:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

The Imago Dei; we are made in God’s image, and we’re to be imaging(mirroring)who God is in order to bring him glory.
There is no Imago Dei in humanistic thought, it's just the id, superego, etc. that there is nothing inherently wrong with man, its just the impact and influence of his environment.
The “S” word; sin isn’t even a category in humanism.
A scenario of adultery would be blamed on something in the brain, some disorder, manic episode of bipolar, etc, but wouldn’t be looked at as sin.
In biblical counseling, we’re to go beyond just reducing sin to behaviors, but we want to acknowledge its a spiritual disease that still has influence on what we’re thinking, feeling, and ultimately act.
Jesus points out the real problem with our hearts, our propensity to try and serve two masters - we will functionally love the one and hate the other. Masters of our flesh and pursuing our desires, or pursuing God and his will.
There are huge differences between these worldview’s; even the category of forgiveness is is lost in translation.
Humanism would treat forgiveness as an emotional process, not a moral command like a biblical worldview would treat forgiveness.
A biblical worldview would say, forgiveness is the bases to work on my anger verses the humanistic view of process through your emotion and then forgive.

EP. 14 Humankind & Counseling Part 1: Establishing A Humanistic Worldview of Anthropology

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 22:10:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

Establishing both views; secular worldview on anthropology and a biblical worldview of anthropology.
Humanism began to take an overt stance in psychology by Abraham Maslow, founder of humanistic psychology.
Humanism has man at the center of everything.
Egocentrism unfortunately has crept into the evangelical church with its ear tickling.
- Symptom alleviation, better circumstances, etc.
Darwinian evolution had a huge impact on psychology.
- The world started from primordial soup, and over billions of years, we evolved from fish to philosophers - being factious.
Freud - psychosexual development - all our human development has a foundation in our sexuality.
- Id - darker side, tempted us, superego - our conscience, ego - the mediator
Our view of human nature drives our diagnostic framework.
Carl Rogers believed - non directional approach, given a positive direction, the client would find their potential and flourish.
Our view of human nature not only tells us what’s wrong but also provides a prescription to make things right.
Alfred Kinsey - father of propagating the sexual revolution.

Show Resources:

Biblical Counseling Basics - Jeremy Lelek

Bonus Episode: Is The Holy Spirit A Gentleman? - Resisting A Big God Theology

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 21:35:00 -0500

Show Notes: Resisting big God theology in counseling: Is the Holy Spirit a gentlemen?

Is the Holy Spirit a gentlemen, would he ever impose himself when believers aren’t ready?
Does scripture teach this idea?
Phil. 2
The New Testament, Galatians 5 for example, demonstrates that these two natures are against one another. One is of the flesh and one is of the spirit.
The flesh produces flesh, one will not come to god when they’re ready.

Show Resources:

EP. 12 God & Counseling Part 3: The Distinct Role of The Holy Spirit in Counseling

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 16 Jun 2019 23:05:00 -0500

Show Notes:
The Holy Spirit in counseling.

How does the Holy Spirit apply what Christ accomplished? He is the one who brings change, real change. Not behavioral modification, etc.
- John 14:15-17
- The Spirit is the one who brings about change, His timing.
Who is the Holy Spirit
- He regenerates God's people(jn. 3.5; Titus 3.5)
- He produces conviction of sin(Jn. 16.8)
- He reveals truth through God’s Word(Jn. 16.13)
- See the rest: pg. 122 of biblical counseling basics; its roots, beliefs, and future.
- The third person of the trinity, the Holy Spirit has claimed the terrain of human flourishing. Pg.122
How can we apply this to the local church?
- The Holy Spirit is more committed to the process of change for an individual than we can accomplish. In other words, we don’t possess the power to make someone change, that is, and can only be accomplished by the Spirit of God.
- God uses three change agents; people, circumstances, and spiritual disciplines.
- Be public with our weaknesses

Show Resources Mentioned:
When God Weeps - Joni Eareckson Tada
Joni's talk from the 2017 Called to Counsel Conference - Video

EP. 11 Eric Johnson Interview on his latest book: God & Soul Care - The Therapeutic Resources of the Christian Faith

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 23:20:00 -0500

Show Summary:
Our co-host, Jeremy launches right into a question that speaks to the tensions that exist within the christian community with psychology and theology. Eric provides a robust response that captures the reality of differing worldview’s within psychology, but provides a persuasive wholistic response for Christians to do their research and take back psychology. Faith and science are not opposed to one another. However, psychology needs to be taken back by rendering it into biblical categories instead of humanistic categories - a must listen!

Jeremy’s question: tensions that exists within the christian community with psychology and theology?

Every worldview has a view of psychology.
Modern psychology was borne within the naturalistic worldview.
Modern psychology’s naturalism leaves out
- God (creator)
- Redemption ( the hope of man) we can’t self-actualize in a way that glorifies God, we’re dependent on him. It’s always going to be truncated and distorted with its conclusions.
As christians, we need to be doing our own research within our worldview.
Center of modern therapy
- Self(anthropocentric) - its the religious system
Center of Biblical counseling
- Christ is the center (christocentric)
  - Made in the image of God
  - Created us for himself
  - Human flourishing is dependence on God through Christ by the Spirit.
The topic of autonomy in modern psychology
- Autonomy is an illusion - biblically speaking
- According to a humanistic worldview, autonomy is a goal of leaving the past, forging myself, choosing to be what one wants to be.
Sanctification in his book
- Soul-brain
  - Underscores the intimacy of the immaterial and material unity and reality of our soul and brain - neuropsychology.
  - God working with us the way we are - our need to surrender our body to righteousness.
Biopsychosocial damage
- Weakness - condition that’s less than God’s design. Whether it’s biologically given, it can be experienced in the implications of living in a fallen world, dysfunctional families, traumatic experiences, etc.
We are made for communal living with God and experiencing his love.

Resources sites in the episode:
God & Soul Care - Eric Johnson
Foundations For Soul Care - Eric Johnson

EP. 10 Lee Lewis Interview On: Depression - A Gospel Response

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:15:00 -0500

Show notes:

Cultural view of depression

Treats it like a disease, attributing it or reducing it to a chemical imbalance or a genetic disposition. These aren’t invalid, but it causes a quick diagnosis so it can be treated quickly. It can almost promise a remedy, which scripturally speaking, is much deeper, its more of a heart problem that has physiological and emotional implications. Therefore, culture has a very superficial view and resolution to depression, very much consistent with the medical model. This isn’t bad, its just incomplete and a truncated resolution because it doesn’t deal with the heart of a person which is where the root of depression is planted.
Medication implications - they don’t necessarily fix the problem, but ultimately mask the problem and often times creates new symptoms. As biblical counselors, we wouldn’t counsel clients to stop taking meds, but to seek their medical professional.
Placebo testing with depression medications demonstrated that the prospect of hope helped tremendously with those struggling with depression. If a placebo provided hope imagine what real hope can do for those depressed; the gospel provides a living hope to the hopeless.

General & Biblical Notes on Depression:

Depression is a progression; when unbelief goes isolated, and it's allowed to reign and nothing else is pressing in on that like community groups, discipleship, etc. its very likely one can slip into a bout of depression.
Paul’s teaching on suffering is helpful. Gal. 6.1-5.
Imagine our community group leaders who respond in a Gal. 6.1-5 way?
Learning from depression - learning to preach the gospel to ourselves and having others in our lives to speak into them.
The gospel gap - gospel truth. Learning to orient our hearts in the place of sorrow.
Learning to abide in Christ
Gospel Community is so necessary for those struggling with depression.

Show Resource Notes:

EP. 9 Curtis Solomon Interview On: Demystifying PTSD

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 26 May 2019 23:15:00 -0500

Episode Summary:
Curtis takes time to Demystify PTSD by removing the D out of it. It’s not an abnormal reaction to normal life, but it’s really a normal response to really extreme and difficult circumstances. PTSD is severely misunderstood, and in this episode Curtis offers a robust understanding to the nature and scope of PTSD.

Episode Notes:
How do we demystify PTSD?

With the Counselee, helping them understand what’s going on physiologically and spiritually as far as what they're facing because the body naturally responds to trauma, and the physiological implications of fight or flight that is associated with fear.
This isn’t just a military issue.
First responders experience a lot of trauma, as well as familial experiences and events.
People respond to trauma differently, and there are a lot of factors that play into manifestations of trauma.
Pre traumatic factors involves a lot around how one grew up, experiences, core beliefs, worldview, etc. All of these factors play into the way someone responds to suffering, hardship, and trauma.
Peri Traumatic - how are you responding to suffering, what was actually going on in the event itself, what happened to me, was it something I did, who was involved, etc.
Where to start with a PTSD case, first develop trust. Going into the time with humility, and ask good questions.
Ways for churches to best minister to those struggling with PTSD
Disassociation, removing yourself from reality and entering back into a traumatic scenario.

Show Resource Mentions:

EP. 8 Jonathan D. Holmes Interview On His Book: Counsel for Couples

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 19 May 2019 23:05:00 -0500

Jonathan discusses his heart behind his book, "Counsel for Couples: A Biblical and Practical Guide for Marriage Counseling", and as a pastor and biblical counselor, discusses the need for the local church to have marriage counseling available in the local church. He expresses the urgency for the local church to have a "culture of care" and to promote preventative ministries. This book is unique because it could be used for lay leaders, church leaders, and leadership development....A must have resource!

A Few Points:

There isn’t really anything available that speaks directly to lay people, church leaders who could use it as a resource., user friendly, helpful as soon as you pick it up.
Using this book for leadership development would be extremely useful.
Fieldstone grew outside of the church.
Pastors move from scripture to life and counselors are trying to move from life to scripture. -
For pastors who are preaching week to week; if you’re trying to move from Scripture to life, all counseling is, is moving from life to scripture.
Don’t counsel alone, bring others in with you. Reduplicate yourselves.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Promote preventative ministries.

Resources From Episode"

Ep. 7 Greg Wilson Interview On: Domestic Violence - 2019 Called To Counsel Conference

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke And Jeremy Lelek — Tue, 14 May 2019 23:15:00 -0500

Greg Wilson discusses the nature and scope of “Domestic Violence”, defined and explained.

The church hasn’t done well in this category of ministry.

Desecrating the image of God in another person. Where man has perverted the dominion that God gave man to rule and subdue the earth, but in man’s sinful state, he corruptly exerts power through violence.
- Definition: the desecration of the image of God through patterns of intentionally misusing power overtly or covertly in words or actions to gratify self.
We need to engender a little more fear in the church to reveal the reality and frequency of it.
Indicators of possible abuse
- Broadly, dominates control of emotional liberty, limiting relationships, finances, elements of control.
- Gas lighting - convincing the other spouse that they’re crazy, and thus gaining control over the other person. Colloquially, crazy making.
- Triangulating tactics towards the counselor in counseling done through the perpetrator in counseling, so domestic abuse is happening in real time in the counseling session.
  - Covert abuse.
- In domestic abuse cases, the counselor, if not careful, can sound like the abuser by telling the victim what they need to do.
- Safety planing;
  - Short term plans
  - Long term plans
- In counseling, we need to help rescuing the oppressed, God did!
- In the church, we need to be rescuing the oppressed, not encouraging the them to stay in that situation.
Church; care before you correct on these domestic abuse cases.

Episode References:

Ep.6 Paul Tripp Interview On: Suffering - 2019 Called To Counsel Conference

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Sun, 05 May 2019 21:55:00 -0500

Show Notes:
Paul Tripp discusses his heart behind his recent book release on suffering, “Suffering: gospel hope when life doesn’t make sense”, which was largely due to his own recent experiences in suffering through acute renal failure. Listen as Paul shares the nature of suffering and our response to it.

"Tweetable Tripp one-liners" from the episode

Suffering is spiritual warfare
Suffering isn’t neutral, we never come to suffering empty; we don’t suffer the thing your suffering, you suffer the way your suffering the thing your suffering.
We have a dark ability to trouble our own trouble.
Our bad theology is making a mess of our suffering.
God doesn’t need us to be healthy to use us; that’s a human way of thinking.
The move of grace is not from dependency to independency, but the move of grace is from independence to dependence.
We’re afraid to be honest and transparent because we don’t believe the gospel.
As Christians, we should be able to be the most honest community on the on the earth.
As christians we struggle with believing the now-ism of the goepl of Jesus Christ.
As christians, we need to stop having cosmetic relationships.
God makes his invisible grace visible by sending people of grace to give grace to people who need grace, that’s how it works, modeling that incarnational living.
Our weakness is God’s workroom.

Episode Resource Links:

Ep. 5 God & Counseling Part 2: The Distinct Role of The Son in Counseling

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 23:35:00 -0500

Show Resources:

John Frame : Systematic Theology An Introduction to the Christian Faith
Tim Challies - Visual Theology
Extravagant Grace
Biblical Counseling Basics

EP. 4 God & Biblical Counseling: Counseling With God In Mind

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke And Jeremy Lelek — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 22:30:00 -0500

Episode Notes:
As believers, we’re counseling from a very different location than the secular person. The secular world counsels to the ego, a man-centered location. Whereas, the believer is being counseled from a theocentric perspective, a God-centered perspective on life. In order to know ourselves, we must know the God of scripture. We cannot truly know ourselves, unless we know God. Hence, being made is God’s image, Gen. 1.26-27.

A right understanding of this helps us to think through reasoning our circumstances from God downward to us instead of reasoning upward to God. Our theology matters when we begin to ask questions to interpret the why behind our pain and suffering. In other words, the Omni’s of God’s attributes; his omnipresence, omnipotence, and omniscience, has everything to do with our circumstances and response.

Show References:

Jeremy Lelek’s book: Biblical Counseling Basics
Colossians 1.13; Deuteronomy 29:29; Proverbs 3:5-6
St. Augustine: The City of God
Eric Johnson's God & Soul Care: The Therapeutic Resources of the Christian Faith
John Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion
A.W. Tozer: knowing God
Jay Adams: Competent to Counsel
David Powlison - Christian Counseling Education Foundation
Thomas Brooks: Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices

Ep. 3 What Is Biblical Counseling Part 2

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 21:00:00 -0500

Show Description:
Jeremy concludes the discussion regarding biblical counseling and its implications on the local church. He demonstrates from Ephesians 4:11-16, that equipping the Saints for the work of the ministry has immediate implications on the church’s ability to equip the believers for one another ministry even to the extent of intensive discipleship, which is biblical counseling.

Is there a difference between discipleship and counseling?

We’re convinced that there isn’t much difference in terms of the believers responsibility to minister to one another. Discipleship can be viewed categorically; there is intentional discipleship, leading believers to know God’s Word, growing in their knowledge and grace of God. And then intensive discipleship and corrective discipleship, where it’s issue specific or topically specific. Then corrective, where sin is involved towards God and one another. All of this is in the scope biblical counseling and discipleship.

Jeremy in the urgency to one another well with our brothers and sisters in Christ, reminds us that if we’re not barring their burdens, they’re getting help from the secular world that isn’t producing gospel-centered responses to what they're going through. Our culture is overly psychologized and if we’re continuing in our passivity and not being intentional with our neighbor, we’re not presenting a gospel that really saves. Like Eph. 4:14, modern psychology has a doctrine, and it’s humanistic. Look at the self-help section in book stores or literary genres online, it's “me-istic”. Let's push to get biblical counseling back in our local church!!

Show References:

Jeremy's Book: Biblical Counseling Basics: its Roots, beliefs, and future
Quote Cited: “genuine biblical counseling cannot be effectively practice in isolation from the church.” pg.167
Scripture focus: Ephesians 4:11-14
Paul Tripp: Your Walk with God is a Community Project
Society Life Magazine: Everyday Counselor Piece
Robby Gallaty: Replicate Ministries
Association of Biblical Counselors: Equipped To Counsel

Episode # 2 What Is Biblical Counseling Part 1

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 00:20:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy provides a distinction between “Christian counseling”, and Biblical Counseling, their theories and methodologies. And then an historical survey of soul care from the time of St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, The Puritans acute knowledge and awareness of soul care, to Martin Luther, and through the modernist movement that pioneered the scope of modern psychology as we know it today, and then provides the state of urgency for the local church today.

Episode Links:
Jeremy Lelek's Book - Biblical Counseling Basics
St Augustine - brief autobiography
Thomas Aquinas - brief autobiography
Martin Luther - Bondage of the will
Richard Baxter - The Christian Directory
Modernist Movement: Wilhelm Wundt, Sigmund Frued, Carl Rogers
David Powlison - 2nd Generation Biblical Counseling Movement (please pray for David, he has cancer)
Paul Tripp - 2nd Generation Biblical Counseling Movement
Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands: Love, Know, Speak, Do

Episode #1 Meet The Hosts & Heart Behind Speak The Truth

Mike & Shauna Van Dyke & Jeremy Lelek — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 18:00:00 -0500

In this episode, our hosts take time to introduce themselves; their personal lives, ministry lives, and church lives. They share their journey’s of following Jesus and how The LORD has used their lives to impact others.

Mike & Shauna talk about their early years of marriage and struggles, work and career paths, and God's Sovereign plan in their lives. The founding of Truth Renewed Ministries.

Jeremy shares God's early hand in bringing about his family, his pathway for his profession as a licensed professional counselor and founder of Metroplex Counseling & Association of Biblical counselors.

The Hosts talk a little about the current climate of biblical counseling and the local church's need to respond proactively to the need of their people and realizing this a gospel issue, and therefore, a discipling issue.

Trailer For Speak The Truth

Association of Biblical Counselors — Fri, 05 Apr 2019 12:00:00 -0500

In this episode, one of the hosts', Mike Van Dyke, reveals who will be co-hosting with him to provide a weekly podcast to edify the local church in biblical counseling and discipleship. Speak The Truth will consist of three host; Mike & Shauna Van Dyke, founders of Truth Renewed Ministries, a biblical counseling ministry. And they'll be joined with co-host, Jeremy Lelek, President of Association of Biblical counselors and Metroplex Counseling. In this trailer, Mike shares what the nature of the podcast will be, and encourages the local church to stay tuned as they begin to bring weekly podcast for the edification of the local church.

Show Intro and Outro

Association of Biblical Counselors — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 16:00:00 -0500

This is a show intro/outro, please stay tuned for more to come. Our regular hosts will be Mike Van Dyke, Shauna Van Dyke, Founders of Truth Renewed Ministries, and Jeremy Lelek, President and Founder of Association of Biblical Counselors.