Biblical Counseling Podcast

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

How does a biblical counselor think? In this episode, Pastor Jeff Christianson explores the Spirit-led renewal of the mind through Romans 12 and Ephesians 4. He unpacks the counselor's role in pointing others to Christ, resisting worldly influence, and living in readiness for the Lord's return. If you're called to counsel God's way—grounded in Scripture, transformed by truth, and guided by the Holy Spirit—we invite you to take the next step. Join the Waitlist: www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind..." – Ephesians 4:23 (NKJV)   Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy
 Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034  

In this episode of the Biblical Counseling Podcast, Pastor Jeff Christianson opens the Scriptures to Romans 12:2 and Ephesians 4:17–23, reminding us that true transformation begins with a renewed mind. Drawing from his own spiritual formation through years of studying God's Word, he explains how biblical counseling isn't about behavior modification—it's about spiritual renewal, led by the Holy Spirit. Before we came to Christ, our thinking was shaped by the world. But God calls us to be "transformed by the renewing of our minds," not conformed to worldly patterns. This renewal is essential for every believer—and especially vital for those ministering the Word in counseling and discipleship. Are you called to counsel God's way? Begin by letting Scripture reshape your thinking and saturate your heart with Christ-centered truth. Join the waitlist for our Counselor Certification Program today: www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist   Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy
 Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034

If you are a biblical counselor, you have come face to face with many forms of human brokenness. It is overwhelming at times to see the effects of human sinfulness and depravity in the world. Men and women live in circumstances touched by suffering, substance abuse, anger, conflict, bitterness, depression, grief, sexual immorality, and shame. The secular world cannot see the spiritual realities behind these manifestations of sin. In each circumstance, Christians perceive that manifestations of sin and suffering are the results of death and bear witness to the absence of spiritual life among humanity. This podcast begins a new series of theological talks addressing one of the most vital doctrines for biblical counselors, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. If the sin and suffering counselees experience in the world is a result of sin and suffering, then the Holy Spirit is central to the work of biblical counseling. In this podcast, Jeff Christianson argues that the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the work and ministry of biblical counseling. The Holy Spirit gives and sustains spiritual life in both the ministry of the biblical counselor and the spiritual lives of counselees. In Scripture, we see that the Holy Spirit plays two major roles in the believer's life. First, the Holy Spirit gives spiritual life to the believer (John 3:3­–8). Paul writes that we were dead in our trespasses and sins (Eph 2:1). Our spiritual life begins when the Holy Spirit fully indwells our hearts at conversion. Second, the Holy Spirit not only gives us spiritual life, but he also remains within us as our continual source of spiritual life. Once we are born again, we continue to walk in step with the Spirit (Gal 5:25). Christians must remember that as they commute, work, travel, rest, fellowship, and engage in the different activities of life, they are constantly drawing upon the spiritual power of the Holy Spirit to sustain their spiritual life. Many Christians struggle with understanding the nature of the spiritual life. They feel defeated by sin. They see their affections for God withering. They feel powerless in evangelism. For how common these experiences can feel, Jeff Christianson reminds Christians that they must not look to their own efforts to grow and sustain spiritual fruit. But Christians must look to the Holy Spirit to sustain their spiritual lives.    Christians face a difficulty when discussing the Holy Spirit. There are many crazy ideas about the Holy Spirit floating around the church world today. Many Christians struggle to maintain the biblical balance on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. On the one side is "Charismania." Many Christians can become overwhelmed by experiences or ideas that they think are biblical. Sadly, the Holy Spirit can easily become an excuse for fleshly and humanistic hype. The key to discerning the work of the Holy Spirit is recognizing the authority and sufficiency of the Scriptures. God's Word must govern and regulate our understanding of the Spirit's work (1 Jn 4:1). On the other hand, many Christians respond strongly against the abuses of the Spirit's work and swing too far the other way. People see the abuses of the Spirit and embrace a dead or dry approach to the Spirit's work. In trying to prevent the abuses, they adopt a lifeless spirituality. Instead of falling into either the ditch of "Charismania" or the ditch of lifeless spirituality, Christians must embrace the full teaching of the Word of God on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. God's Word clearly teaches that there is life, hope, and peace for believers found in the work of the Holy Spirit. Christians must be careful when approaching the work of counseling. Many times, counselors have a background in some sort of mechanical field. Maybe you have a craft or a skill that has been cultivated over time. Jeff Christianson in this podcast shares his past as a car mechanic. Jeff spent many years in the 1980s working on hot rods and cars during the "Rock 'n' Roll" years in Los Angeles, California. He still remembers the formula and processes of constructing engines, bodywork, and styling cars. Christians with backgrounds in mechanical fields can take a mechanical approach to counseling. They are tempted to treat people like machines and view the change process as a series of formulas. Christianson reminds counselors that counselees are much more complex than cars or equipment. Many times, counselees lives are messy and complicated. The complexity of counseling forces counselors to rely upon the Holy Spirit in the transformation of their counselees. Jeff Christianson ends this podcast with his own personal testimony. If there was ever an example of a messy counselee, Jeff fit the picture! Jeff shares how 2022 marks thirty years of his spiritual life as a Christian. If someone traveled back thirty years to Los Angeles, they would find a young Jeff Christianson with long hair, a cool car, and an empty soul. Jeff pursued everything the world had to offer, drugs, girls, and fun. His work on hot rods gave him access to celebrities and rock stars during the height of rock music in LA. One fateful day in 1992, Jeff went to see the band Motorhead and their new opening act, a band called Guns N' Roses. During the concert, Jeff attempted to smoke in the concert hall and was kicked out. Drunk, Jeff went behind the theater to urinate only to be arrested. He spent the night in the Pasadena jail. Once he was released, he found his car impounded. A long walk to his car gave Jeff time to think about his life. His hot rod business was falling apart. His girlfriend had left him. He was empty. He was broken. His life was falling apart. Soon after, Jeff found a Gideon's bible and God changed his story. Jeff believes in the power of the Holy Spirit because thirty years ago the Holy Spirit took a young and empty Jeff Christianson and gave him spiritual life.   Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy
 PO Box 3021
Glenwood Springs, CO 81602
 Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034 Make An Appointment: https://calendly.com/jeffchristianson/work-with-me Join the Academy: https://www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist Make A Donation: https://calvarychapel.breezechms.com/give/online Now Enrolling: https://www.BiblicalCounselingAcademy.com  

Podcast Episode for Biblical Counselors in Training Helping Others Cultivate a Life of Prayer As a Biblical counselor, have you ever wondered how to equip those you serve to develop a meaningful and effective prayer life? This week's episode of the Biblical Counseling Podcast with Pastor Jeff Christianson dives deep into the essential role of prayer in the Christian life and provides you with the tools to help others make prayer a consistent and transformative part of their daily walk with God. Prayer is more than just asking God for help; it's about fostering a deep, personal connection with Him that shapes hearts and lives. Drawing from Scripture, such as 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which exhorts believers to "pray without ceasing," Pastor Jeff explains how prayer can be integrated into the busyness of life. This episode offers practical strategies for Biblical counselors to guide others in understanding what it means to live in constant communication with God. Through prayer, individuals learn to share their thoughts, emotions and needs with God while embracing His guidance, peace, and presence. As Jesus taught in Matthew 6, prayer is an act of praise, trust, and humility before the Father. In this episode, Pastor Jeff shares how Biblical counselors can effectively model and teach this perspective on prayer to those they disciple. This episode equips Biblical counselors with practical accountability tools to: ● Encourage those they counsel to prioritize daily prayer. ● Teach the foundational importance of prayer in their relationship with God. ● Guide others in building a sustainable, vibrant prayer life that fosters spiritual growth. ● Use prayer as a means to point people back to God's transformative power. Prayer is vital in Biblical counseling because it reflects our dependence on God as the ultimate Counselor. By teaching others to pray and holding them accountable to prayer, we help them experience His love, guidance, and restoration in their lives. It's through prayer that true heart transformation occurs, as we connect with the One who heals and renews. As you listen to this episode, take a moment to reflect on your own prayer life and how you can encourage those you serve to make prayer a daily habit. Whether it's a quick prayer in the middle of a busy day or an extended time of conversation with God, remember that He is always listening. Prayer not only brings peace and guidance, but it also deepens our relationship with Him and aligns us with His will. Tune in to this episode and be inspired to make prayer a cornerstone of your Biblical counseling ministry. Equip yourself to help others discover the joy and power of a life centered on prayer!    Jeff Christianson Biblical Counseling Academy
 PO Box 3021
Glenwood Springs, CO 81602
 Admissions Office: (828) 707-9034 Make An Appointment: https://calendly.com/jeffchristianson/work-with-me Join the Academy: https://www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist Make A Donation: https://calvarychapel.breezechms.com/give/online Now Enrolling: https://www.BiblicalCounselingAcademy.com  

Living daily by God's grace depends upon getting to know Him and then walking in the humility and faith that result from fellowship with Him.  There are four ways to relate rightly to the Lord in humility and faith:  Living By The Spirit,  Living By Resurrection Power,  Living By The Sufficiency Of God Living By The Promises Of God. (Matthew 28:19 NKJV) (19) "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (John 1:43 NKJV) (43) The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, "Follow Me." (Luke 9:23 NKJV) (23) Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. BiblicalCounselingAcademy.com Waitlist: https://www.jeffchristianson.com/counselor-certification-waitlist