Gospel-Centered Change with Jim Niewheiser

About the Guest(s): Jim Newheiser is an experienced figure in the field of Christian counseling, currently serving as the director of the Christian Counseling program at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. This program is grounded in biblical counseling principles. With a history of engagement in the field since the mid-1990s, Newheiser has also played a pivotal role in the Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (IBCD), serving as its executive director for 17 years. Additionally, he contributes his expertise as an ACBC fellow and as a member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition. His personal life includes over four decades of marriage and raising three adult sons. Episode Summary: In this episode of Renewal Cast, Coalt Robinson invites counselor and educator Jim Newheiser to delve into the intricate process of personal change and the nuances of parenting in a Christian context. The discussion opens with an exploration of why individuals often struggle with transformation despite recognizing the need for it. Jim shares his insights, drawing from his extensive experience in biblical counseling and pastoral ministry. The conversation moves towards the critical role that the gospel plays in facilitating authentic change, highlighting the need for a balance between understanding divine grace and exercising personal responsibility in sanctification. The practical issues in parenting are addressed, noting that the application of scriptural principles varies significantly depending on the child's stage of faith. Interwoven with Newheiser's theological stance are the challenges and humbling experiences that come with striving to guide children towards a Christ-centered life. Key Takeaways:

• Transformation often involves a long-term process rather than instantaneous change, and individuals should align their expectations with the principles of progressive sanctification.
• A secure standing with God through Christ is the foundation from which genuine change and pursuit of holiness emanate, and this assurance is essential for combating doubts and fostering spiritual growth.
• Gratitude for God’s grace can significantly motivate obedience, but this is just one aspect of multifaceted motivations that also include discipline and a recognition of God’s love.
• Parenting is an area where law and gospel both play crucial roles, and biblical principles must be applied with awareness of a child's spiritual condition and individual needs.
• It is important for parents to recognize their limitations in changing their children's hearts and to understand that ultimately, it is God who regenerates and sanctifies.

Notable Quotes:

• "The Bible teaches Philippians 1:6, He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
• "If salvation is God's work, then it will progress beyond conversion, and you began the good work, will continue to perfect it. No one will snatch you out of the father's hands."
• "The gospel empowers obedience rather than discouraging it."
• "We will not save our children through being perfect parents. Even if there was a law of parenting, we could not keep it."
• "Being a believer in a fallen world […] it gives me compassion for people who struggle in different ways, including in this way [parenting]."

Resources:

• Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (IBCD): IBCD Website
• ACBC (Association of Certified Biblical Counselors): ACBC Website
• Biblical Counseling Coalition: BCC Website

Dive into the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of the gospel and to hear Jim Newheiser's insightful perspectives on change and parenting within the Christian faith. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking episodes from Renewal Cast.