Dr. Jay E. Adams has arguably done more to clarify Christ-centered counseling than any of the modern attempts to integrate secular psychological theories with biblical truth. In one of his books, How to Help People Change, he writes:

“Substantial change requires the alteration of the heart. How can a Christian counselor facilitate such change? The answer, of course, may be found in Scripture, specifically in 2 Timothy 3:14-17.” That text says:

“...you have known the sacred writings which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is [a]God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for [b]training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be equipped, having been thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

The point is, if we are going to be of any help to another...that is, to help them change in God honoring ways...it must start with their relationship with Jesus Christ. The text of scripture makes it clear...we must be “wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Personal trust in the gospel is where all effectual counseling must begin. Regeneration is the first step toward wholeness in relationships, personal/emotional issues, or battles with the destructive forces of the world, the flesh, and the devil.

The Christian counselor must understand that the starting point of joy and purpose must first be found in one's saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Apart from that, we are working with “bandages” not cures. The characteristics and commitments found in The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-12) are impossible to experience or keep apart from the supernatural work imparted to everyone who puts their faith and trust in Jesus Christ. While the goals of counseling are found in those 12 verses, they are unattainable apart from first being changed by the power of the gospel. That's why the Apostle wrote: I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. (Romans 1:16) Let us never lose sight of the preeminence and centrality of the gospel in our attempts to help others. We can't do it...they can't do it..without they're first coming to Jesus humbly, repentantly, desperately in need of salvation from hell and from themselves (2 Corinthians 5:13-17) - “13 For if we [a]are out of our mind, it is for God, or if we are of right mind, it is for you...He died for all, so that they who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf...17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” My prayer for you and me this day is this: Lord, never let us lose sight of how key and instrumental the saving power of the gospel is when we are called upon to help others. Remind us often about the power of the gospel. Amen