Biblical Counseling Podcast

You're invited to listen to a powerful message from Pastor Jeff Christianson: "Resurrection: God Saves" Jesus asked a question that still echoes today: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live… Do you believe this?" (John 11:25–26) This podcast explores the heart of the Christian faith—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. If Jesus is alive, everything changes. Hope is real. Sin is forgiven. Eternal life is possible. In this message, you'll discover: • What the resurrection truly means (and what it doesn't) • The compelling biblical evidence for Jesus' resurrection • How the resurrection impacts your life today—and your eternity The resurrection isn't just a historical claim—it's a life-altering truth that demands a response. Take time to listen, reflect, and consider the question Jesus asks each of us: Do you believe this? 🎧 Listen now and be encouraged, challenged, and renewed in hope. jeffchristianson.com/workwithme

In this episode of the Biblical Counseling Podcast, Pastor Jeff Christianson speaks to pastors, ministry leaders, and biblical counseling students about sanctifying grace — the grace of God at work in the believer's daily growth in Christ. Many Christians understand grace for salvation, but still try to live the Christian life through self-effort, pressure, or performance. Pastor Jeff opens passages such as 2 Peter 3:18, Acts 20:32, Hebrews 13:9, and 2 Timothy 2:1 to show that the same grace that saves us is the grace that strengthens us, establishes the heart, and matures us in Christ. If you are shepherding others, training in biblical counseling, or learning how to care for souls in a more Christ-centered way, this episode will help you better understand how steady spiritual growth happens. To connect with Pastor Jeff about biblical counseling training, ministry coaching, or church equipping opportunities, visit: jeffchristianson.com/workwithme

Psychology vs. The Faith: Psychology has had a heavy impact on American culture for decades. Then, through the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, it steadily crept into the church. Today, it has a deep foothold in the church. And I want to say this carefully, but plainly: one of the most subtle forms of heresy to ever hit the American church is psychological theory being absorbed into Christian ministry as if it were neutral, safe, and compatible with the faith. Not because every observation made by anyone in the field is false. Not because the body doesn't matter. Not because Christians have never been helped by conversations with professionals. But because the most dangerous part of psychology is the part that claims to explain what man is, why man is the way he is, and how man changes. That's not lab science. That's not medicine. That's a philosophy of life—and very often, a rival religion. The Spirit "Expressly Says" This Will Happen Paul warned Timothy with a kind of urgency we rarely hear anymore: "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons…" (1 Timothy 4:1) Notice what's happening: people depart from the faith, and as they loosen their grip on biblical truth, they become wide open to deception—"deceiving spirits" and "doctrines of demons." Then Paul adds something that should sober every pastor, counselor, and ministry leader: "If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed." (1 Timothy 4:6) That means warning the flock isn't optional. If we refuse to instruct God's people where deception is creeping in, we are not being "good ministers of Jesus Christ." This isn't about causing trouble. It's about acknowledging that there's already trouble if we won't speak. This Isn't About Condemning People Let me be clear: this is not a blanket condemnation of every psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or person who has sought help. Many people are hurting. Many people are trying to survive. Some have real physiological issues—brain chemistry, sleep deprivation, hormonal problems, trauma responses in the body, or medical complications that should absolutely be evaluated. The Bible does not forbid legitimate medicine. Jesus said the sick need a physician (Luke 5:31). Luke was called "the beloved physician" (Colossians 4:14). The issue is not medical care. The issue is philosophy—systems that tell you what life is, what man is, what truth is, what morality is, what change is, and what salvation looks like. That's why Scripture warns: "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men… and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8) When a counseling theory runs "not according to Christ," the church must not import it uncritically and call it "wisdom." The Most Dangerous Part of Psychology There are areas of psychology that are closer to observation and measurement—like certain aspects of learning patterns or child development. You can observe, record, and make modest conclusions. But the danger zone is the sprawling world of psychotherapy theories that claim authority over identity, meaning, values, morality, and transformation. One of the best summaries I've ever seen puts it like this (paraphrasing the sense of the quote you referenced): the most seductively dangerous area is the part that tries to explain why people are the way they are and how they change. That's exactly the ground Scripture claims as its own. Because the Bible doesn't just tell us what to do. It tells us who we are. It tells us why we sin. It tells us what the heart is. It tells us what repentance is. It tells us what faith is. It tells us what love is. It tells us how change happens—by grace, through the Spirit, in union with Christ, in the life of the church. Psychology Often Operates Like Religion Here's where people get uncomfortable. But we need to be honest: modern psychotherapy doesn't merely treat "disease." It frequently teaches a worldview. It interprets suffering. It assigns meaning. It defines virtue. It sets the boundaries of blame and responsibility. It reframes guilt. It counsels hope. It offers a path of transformation. That's religion-level territory. Even Carl Jung—one of the towering figures in psychological theory—recognized this. He essentially admitted that people were coming to therapists for what they used to go to priests for: relief, meaning, wholeness, direction. In other words, therapy was stepping into the territory of pastoral care and theology. And here's where discernment matters even more: Jung wasn't "biblically spiritual." He was spiritually open in a dark way. You referenced his fascination with spirit-guides and his guide "Philemon." Whether someone calls that metaphor, imagination, archetype, or spiritism, the fruit is the same: theories sha

How Christ and His Word shaped my convictions and led me to IABC Jeff Christianson's Story with IABC — Why Christ and His Word Are Enough Many people know the International Association of Biblical Counselors (IABC), but fewer know the personal story behind how I came to love and serve this ministry. As the current Board President and Executive Director, I wanted to take a moment to share a bit of my journey — not to spotlight myself, but to invite a conversation with those who care deeply about Christ-centered, Scripture-sufficient soul care. My introduction to biblical counseling began in the mid-1990s during Bible college. I took an elective course called Counseling God's Way taught by Bob Hoekstra. That class immediately resonated with me because it wasn't counseling as the world defines it — it was discipleship. It was the Word of God applied to the heart, anchored in the sufficiency of Christ. From there, I was shaped by ministries like the Biblical Counseling Foundation and resources such as the Self-Confrontation Manual, which challenged me to examine my life in light of Scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5). Over time, I became familiar with the broader biblical counseling movement, including organizations like NANC (now ACBC), and I began to see distinct streams developing. What drew me toward IABC was its pastoral warmth, its local-church rootedness, and its unwavering commitment to the truth that Jesus Christ is the Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6) and that His Word is enough to equip God's people for life and godliness. This special podcast episode shares that story — how the Lord grew my convictions, clarified my calling, and led me into this lane of ministry. If you've ever wondered where IABC fits historically, or if you share a desire to "return to the Word," I invite you to listen and join the conversation. "Preach the word… fulfill your ministry." (2 Timothy 4:2–5) 🎧 Listen to the full episode here and reach out anytime. The Biblical Counseling Academy We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel biblically. The Biblical Counseling Academy gives you clear and practical training rooted in God's Word. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. Your next step starts with a conversation. Call (828) 707-9034 __________________________________________________________________________________ Support the podcast with a financial gift: https://calvarychapel.breezechms.com/give/online

In today's world, many people only hear part of God's Word, but God has given us the full picture. Why do pastors choose to preach through the entire Bible? Because every part of Scripture is important for our faith and growth. In this episode, Pastor Jeff explores why it's so vital to teach the whole Bible. From Paul's example of faithfully teaching "the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27) to Ezra's careful reading and explaining of Scripture (Nehemiah 8:8), we learn that a healthy church is built on all of God's truth, not just parts of it. We'll see how the early church grew strong by focusing on the Bible in its entirety (Acts 2:42, 6:4) and how all of Scripture—both the Old and New Testaments—helps us understand God's plan and reveals Jesus to us (Romans 3:21-22, Hebrews 1:1-2). When pastors skip parts of Scripture, believers can become weak in their faith. But when we embrace all of God's Word, it teaches, strengthens, and protects us (Psalm 19:7-8, 1 Peter 1:23-25). If you want to grow in your faith and have a deeper understanding of God's Word, this episode will encourage you to embrace the whole Bible. It's time for the church to hear the full counsel of God. __________________________________________________________________________________ The Biblical Counseling Academy We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel biblically. The Biblical Counseling Academy gives you clear and practical training rooted in God's Word. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. Your next step starts with a conversation. Call (828) 707-9034 __________________________________________________________________________________ Support the podcast with a financial gift: https://calvarychapel.breezechms.com/give/online

What's the #1 priority in your life—and what does your answer reveal about what truly motivates you? In this two-part teaching through Philippians 3:7–14, Pastor Jeff Christianson calls us back to the highest priority of the Christian life: knowing God. The apostle Paul says everything else becomes "loss" compared to "the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord" (Philippians 3:8). In this episode, we unpack why knowing the Lord is the supreme treasure, how we come to the Father only through the righteousness of Christ, and why real discipleship always flows from abiding—never from anxious busy-ness. You'll hear: Why knowing the Lord is the believer's highest priority (Philippians 3:7–8; John 17:3) David's charge: "Know the God of your father" (1 Chronicles 28:9) How God brings us from darkness to light (2 Corinthians 4:6) The three ways we grow in knowing Him: resurrection power, fellowship of sufferings, and being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:10) Pressing forward with a single focus: "one thing I do" (Philippians 3:13–14) A needed warning for distracted hearts: Mary vs. Martha—the one necessary thing (Luke 10:38–42) This teaching is a fresh call to count all things loss, lay hold of Christ, forget what lies behind, and press toward the upward call—so we can live a visibly resurrected life in a dead world. Scripture Focus: Philippians 3:7–14 Key Supporting Passages: John 17:3; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Jeremiah 9:23–24; 2 Corinthians 4:6; 1 John 5:20; Luke 10:38–42; Ephesians 1:17 "If you seek Him, He will be found by you." (1 Chronicles 28:9) The Biblical Counseling Academy We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel biblically. The Biblical Counseling Academy gives you clear and practical training rooted in God's Word. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. Your next step starts with a conversation. Call (828) 707-9034

In this final episode of our Family God's Way series, Pastor Jeff explores two pillars essential to every Christian household: the wisdom of God and the grace of God. Drawing from Proverbs 3:5–6 and Acts 20:32, we discover that families cannot flourish on human insight or human strength alone. Instead, the Lord invites us to trust Him with all our hearts, acknowledge Him in every matter, and receive the supernatural strength that comes through His grace. This episode unpacks: Why marriages and families must learn to lean on the Lord's understanding—not their own How God promises to direct our paths when we acknowledge Him in all things The indispensable role of grace in sustaining relationships, overcoming weakness, and walking in unity Why Christian homes must become households of prayer, continually seeking God's help and enabling How the Lord builds, strengthens, and upholds the family by His Spirit If you long for a home guided by God's wisdom and strengthened by His grace, this episode will point you back to the One who faithfully leads, empowers, and builds every household that trusts in Him. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel Biblically. If that's you, you're not alone. We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. At the Biblical Counseling Academy, you'll receive clear and practical training rooted in God's Word—designed for real ministry and real people. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. If you sense the Lord calling you to grow in this area… 👉 Your next step starts with a conversation. Call (828) 707-9034 Enroll today and begin your training.

What does it really look like for the Lord to build a home? In this episode, Pastor Jeff continues the "Family God's Way" series by exploring three essential pillars of a God-built household: His Purpose, His Church, and His Glory. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9–10, Ephesians 1:22 23, and Colossians 1:18, we discover that: We are not just families—we are God's people, redeemed to proclaim His praises. We were never designed to grow alone—God shapes marriages and families through His church, the fullness of Christ. Above all, the Christian home exists for His glory, that Christ may have the preeminence in all things. Pastor Jeff unpacks how these truths transform everyday family life, calling husbands, wives, parents, and children to live with a higher purpose than personal comfort or cultural ideals. When God's purposes guide the home, when the church supports and strengthens it, and when Christ is exalted above all, the household becomes a living testimony of His grace. If you long for a marriage and family shaped not by self-interest but by Scripture, this episode will encourage, challenge, and refocus your heart on the One who builds the home. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel Biblically. If that's you, you're not alone. We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. At the Biblical Counseling Academy, you'll receive clear and practical training rooted in God's Word—designed for real ministry and real people. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. If you sense the Lord calling you to grow in this area… 👉 Enroll today and begin your training. https://www.jeffchristianson.com/

In this episode, we explore the foundational truth of Psalm 127:1 (NKJV): "Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it." Every marriage, every household, and every family is shaped by someone or something. Scripture teaches that God Himself desires to be both Architect and Builder of the Christian home. When we attempt to construct family life in our own wisdom or strength, the results are fragile, fleeting, and ultimately futile. But when the Lord builds the house, His work produces stability, unity, and spiritual fruit that endures. Join Pastor Jeff as he walks through the implications of Psalm 127, examining: Why every family needs God as its Builder How human effort becomes fruitful only under God's hand The difference between a home built on self-effort and a home built on Scripture How to invite the Lord to shape your marriage, parenting, and household What it means to surrender the "blueprints" of your life to the Master Builder This episode offers biblical encouragement, practical insight, and Christ-centered hope for anyone longing for a home that reflects the grace and presence of God. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel biblically. If that's you, you're not alone. We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. At the Biblical Counseling Academy, you'll receive clear and practical training rooted in God's Word—designed for real ministry and real people. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. If you sense the Lord calling you to grow in this area… 👉 Enroll today and begin your training. https://www.jeffchristianson.com/

What is worship really about? In heaven, all attention is fixed on one Person — "the Lamb who was slain" (Revelation 5:12). From Psalms to the Gospels to the Great Commission, Scripture reveals one unchanging truth: Christ is the central focus of all true worship. In this episode, we trace the thread of worship through key passages — from Psalm 2:12, to the disciples bowing in awe on stormy seas, to the worship of the risen and ascended Christ. Each moment reminds us that worship isn't about our emotions or experiences, but about acknowledging the infinite worth of Jesus Himself. Leaders and counselors alike are called to model this heavenly mindset on earth — keeping Christ at the center of every heart, home, and ministry. Let this episode draw you back to what truly matters: Christ alone, worthy of all honor and glory. Grow deeper in your calling and equipping at counselorcertification.com Contact Jeff: jeffchristianson.com/workwithme

What idols are threatening today's Christian families? In this podcast, Pastor Jeff Christianson equips pastors and leaders to stand firm against cultural idols—money, pride, pleasure, and empty religion. Biblical counseling isn't the same as secular therapy; it's living a Christ-centered life and helping others do the same. Join Jeff as he calls leaders to flee idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14), walk in humility, and shepherd God's people with Scripture and the Spirit. Learn how to take your equipping further and become a Certified Biblical Counselor at counselorcertification.com Contact Jeff: jeffchristianson.com/workwithme

When a family breaks under pressure, where do they turn? More often than not, it's you—the counselor, the pastor, the leader—who steps into that gap. In this episode, we'll walk through how God designed the family as the first place of discipleship, recognize when idolatry and misplaced priorities threaten their households, and how to redirect them toward Christ-centered living. If you're called to lead, this conversation will sharpen your heart and strengthen your hands for the counseling ministry God has entrusted to you. Learn how to take your equipping further and become a Certified Biblical Counselor at https://www.counselorcertification.com

Today's families are under attack like never before. In this episode, we uncover the cultural and spiritual dangers confronting the home—and, more importantly, the timeless truths of God's Word that bring hope and healing. Together, we turn to Scripture for wisdom and encouragement on how to guard our households and shepherd our loved ones with grace and truth. Do you feel called to go deeper? If God has placed on your heart a desire to counsel and disciple others, visit https://www.counselorcertification.com to discover how you can be equipped as a certified Biblical counselor and serve others with a Christ-centered ministry.

In this episode of the Biblical Counseling Podcast, Jeff Christianson shares a heartfelt reminder that every follower of Jesus is called to serve and to be equipped for that service, especially in areas like counseling and discipleship. He reflects on Ephesians 4:11 12, where it says God gave certain leaders apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor-teachers not to do all the ministry themselves, but to equip all believers for the work of ministry. That means it's not just for pastors or full-time workers; every Christian has a role. Jeff encourages listeners to keep growing, whether through formal training, personal study, or learning from trusted mentors. But it's not just about learning facts, it's about growing closer to Jesus and helping others do the same. Throughout the episode, he points to Scriptures like Romans 14:19, Romans 15:2, and 1 Thessalonians 5:11, which call us to build each other up, comfort one another, and grow together in our faith. The message is clear and encouraging: ministry isn't just for a few, it's for all of us. And God gives us what we need to serve Him well. Ready to be equipped for biblical counseling? www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist

In this episode, Pastor Jeff talks about how psychology is infiltrating the church. Instead of the church impacting the world around us, the world is infecting the body of Christ. So often, unbiblical, worldly messages are being brought into the church. The truths of Scripture are the message of the church and must not be mixed with humanistic philosophies. God's Word is powerful. The people of God need to hold fast to the Word of God and the Gospel, which is the power of God for salvation and a changed life. Let us not embrace what is popular, but come back to the Word of God. Jeff often talks about the difference between psychology and the Bible. But just to clarify, when he mentions psychology, he isn't referring to the entire field of psychology. He is mainly pushing back about the part of psychology that deals with human nature, how to live life, and how to make changes. This includes things like psychological counseling, clinical counseling, psychotherapy, and the psychological aspects of psychiatry. These theories have also influenced some parts of educational psychology, especially behaviorism and humanism. But the problem is that these theories focus on nonphysical aspects of a person, which can conflict with biblical teachings about things like sin, salvation, and our relationship with God. So, it's important to be aware of these differences when considering how to approach personal growth and change biblically. His point? God's Word is sufficient! Become a certified Christians Counselor at BiblicalCounselingAcademy.com

In this episode, Pastor Jeff Christianson explores the life-transforming direction found in Philippians 3:12–14 and Colossians 3:1–3—pressing forward and looking upward. Contrasting the biblical call to focus on Christ with the inward and backward methods of secular counseling, Pastor Jeff emphasizes the sufficiency of Scripture and the person of Christ in our sanctification journey. Drawing from years of ministry and mentorship under Pastor Chuck Smith and Pastor Bob Hoekstra, he reminds us that true spiritual growth comes not from introspection, but from setting our minds on things above. This episode is a call to refocus on the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Ready to be equipped for biblical counseling? www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist

How do you get equipped for counseling ministry without a seminary degree? Pastor Jeff unpacks Ephesians 4 and reveals God's plan for equipping the saints—through the local church, gifted leaders, and a Spirit-led calling. Ready to be equipped for biblical counseling? www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034

Pastor Jeff Christianson teaches on the essential role of the Holy Spirit in biblical counseling, based on 1 Corinthians 2:12-13. He contrasts human wisdom with the Spirit's power, reminding us that true healing comes from God's Word, not worldly ideas. Biblical counselors are called to speak God's truth, not popular psychology, and trust the Holy Spirit for real change. Ready to be equipped for biblical counseling? www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034

Pastor Jeff Christianson continues his study of Romans 12:1-2, showing how a renewed mind in Christ leads to a transformed life. He emphasizes that this change comes when we offer our lives to God, reflecting His will. This episode reveals warnings against worldly counseling methods that mix human ideas with Scripture, encouraging biblical counselors to focus on God's Word for true healing and transformation. Ready to renew your mind and step into biblical counseling? www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist