Abstract

This study supports the thesis that the Pauline concept of "justification by faith", acting as a guiding principle for psychological acceptance within the framework of Adlerian psychology, creates a workable Christian modality for counseling and psychotherapy. Using a research methodology based upon a literature review and analysis, the Adlerian model is examined for its ability to adapt itself to the metaphysical "truth" of justification by faith. ;Focusing upon the philosophical nature of theoretical constructs, this research suggests that "truth" is inextricably influenced by elements of human participation and subjective interpretation. As such, the truth of justification by faith and its usefulness as a guiding principle of acceptance within the Adlerian model of psychotherapy is based upon its ability to meet the human need of individual and community acceptance. ;Examining the historical development of the pastoral counseling movement and comparing it to the growth of modern psychology, this study reveals that both institutions--spiritual and secular--sought to address the human need for acceptance by utilizing methodology related in principle to the Pauline concept of justification by faith. Reviewing the New Testament communities of Galatia and Rome provided clearer evidence that justification by faith is a workable truth, a truth that bases ultimate acceptance upon the behavior of a Messianic figure standing as representative and substitute for the human race. This acceptance, secured beyond the realm of individual, subjective experience, acts as a basis for intrapsychic change when it is internalized by the individual in community. ;This research demonstrates that by utilizing the Pauline principle of justification by faith within the framework of Adler's Individual Psychology, a unique model for Christian psychotherapy is formed that effectively addresses the psychological need for individual and community acceptance