The Christian Counselor's Guidebook

Biblical Resources for Life's Challenges

One of the great privileges of the Christian life is to come alongside those who are struggling with needs of the soul and share God’s Word to provide help and counsel in their time of need. As Paul wrote to the church in Rome, he expressed his heart for them to know the joy, peace, and hope of God (Romans 15:13). And then he followed with this important encouragement: “And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another” (Romans 15:14). Mature Christians should be able to understand the needs of people and, with prayer and biblical counsel, direct people to the answers found in God’s Word.

This guidebook is intended to be a tool in equipping godly Christians as they help others. It is provided for Sunday school teachers, small group leaders, deacons, altar workers, camp counselors, youth leaders, and Christians in any other area of spiritual leadership.

Each of the fifty topics in this guide include a brief summary of the subject, several key thoughts or talking points for counseling, and a list of relevant Scripture passages. Also included is introductory material with basic counseling suggestions and instruction on how to share the gospel in counseling conversations.

Paul Chappell is the senior pastor of the Lancaster Baptist Church and president of West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California. His biblical vision has led the church to become one of the most dynamic independent Baptist churches in the nation, and his Christ-centered leadership philosophy has become a model for hundreds of future leaders. He has been married to his wife, Terrie, since 1980 and is the father of four married children who are all serving in Christian ministry.