The Human Person in Theology And Psychology: A Biblical Anthropology for the Twenty-first Century [Paperback]

James R. Beck (Author), Bruce Demarest (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 15, 2006

A new analysis of human nature and behavior in biblical perspective by two evangelical experts. This comprehensive textbook discusses four key aspects of the human person by exploring the relationship between origin and destiny, substance and identity, function and behavior, and relationships and community. The authors argue that an integrated approach of theology and psychology not only enhances our understanding of what it means to be human, but is also key to that understanding.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Beck and Demarest have written a fascinating, unusual, and carefully constructed study of humans from the perspective of both theology and psychology. This book is timely given the dialogue that is taking place between those practicing these two disciplines and given the shifting boundaries between the various parties in this dialogue . . . . This book is highly recommended. It addresses an issue that will likely increase in important. In an area where many of the books are superficial, it provides scholarship. In an area where some books are polemical, it is irenic. In an area where books are often highly selective in order to make a particular argument appear convincing, it provides a broad overview of both fields. In an area where far too many books are shoddy, it is carefully researched and organized." (Christian Education Journal )

From the Back Cover

What does it mean to be human? Both the Bible and psychology have unique perspectives on the question, and when understood together they can enrich our perspective on people while improving our ministry to those in need.

Written by experts in their respective fields, this book explores four aspects of the human person: origin and destiny, substance and identity, function and behavior, relationships and community. After examining the underpinnings of anthropology from a biblical and theological position, it then analyzes what it means to be human from a psychological perspective. Finally, it integrates the two disciplines, creating a comprehensive textbook for courses in theological anthropology, clinical psychology, and counseling, as well as providing a resource for pastoral and professional counselors.

“This is a great organizational scheme and a great conversation, regardless of [whether theology or psychology] is the reader’s primary language.”

—Everett L. Worthington Jr.
Professor and Chair of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University

“This book is a remarkable achievement, bringing together theological anthropology, systematic theology, and contemporary psychology into a comprehensive text. Although I do not agree with all their conclusions, I applaud Demarest and Beck for their thorough scholarship and commend this book as a thoughtful and sometimes provocative look at the human person.”

—Mark R. McMinn
Professor of Psychology, Wheaton College

Bruce Demarest (Ph.D., University of Manchester) is director of the program in formation and soul care at Denver Seminary. A former missionary educator and professor of Christian formation, he is also the author of several books including Soul Guide, Satisfy Your Soul, and Integrative Theology.

James R. Beck (Ph.D., Rosemead Graduate School of Psychology) is professor of counseling at Denver Seminary. He is the author or coauthor of several books, including Healing the Hurting: Giving Hope and Help to Abused Women and The Psychology of Paul.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Kregel Publications (January 15, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0825421160
• ISBN-13: 978-0825421167
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #765,587 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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5.0 out of 5 stars finally, a balanced approach, May 15, 2011

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This review is from: The Human Person in Theology And Psychology: A Biblical Anthropology for the Twenty-first Century (Paperback)

I really am enjoying this book- repeatedly! I have often turned to it for reference following a week long run into the minds of secular psychology's leading theorists, trying to make sense of a purely secular approach to the psychology of humanity. This book presents both sides of the topic clearly and thoroughly for most lay people to assimilate- both the biblical theology of mankind, and the human discoveries about humanity form a scientific, anthropologic, and psychoanalytic point of view. Laying the theories out side by side really enables a person to see the flaws as they line up with scripture. This book is decidedly theological in nature, and strives to review humanistic perspectives in light of scripture. This book is a must read for any Christian with a desire to take a balanced approach to understanding human philosophies and assertions to the "Mind-Body Problem". It helps to complete the picture of the classic debate in Psychology of the Nature vs. Nurture dilemma. I highly recommend this book.