“I don’t do therapy. I just preach the Word. If people listen, they’ll be able to handle their own problems.”
The words were clean and decisive, captivating the handful of pastors who’d asked the conference speaker out for breakfast. Around half-cleared plates and coffee mugs, everyone nodded their heads. I probably did so myself, though I remember feeling conflicted. I was a rookie pastor then and knew my experience was far less than this veteran’s. Yet I couldn’t get around the thought, But people I know at your church are in therapy and you don’t even know it.
The tension I felt was between my belief in the power of the preached Word and my awareness that even people eager to receive the Word still struggle deeply with personal troubles. Years of pastoral ministry since have confirmed this tension. Here’s what I’ve learned: Speaking the timeless Word to timebound individuals requires deep insight into both. To gain insight into Scripture, you have to study hard; to gain insight into individuals, you have to do the same.
A pastor is not a therapist. But that doesn’t mean he opts out of helping folks with their personal troubles. In fact, a pastor
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