Belief through the Darkness

The negative cognitive effects of depression often distort one’s beliefs about self, God, and the world. Approaches to educational ministry that primarily seek to correct erroneous beliefs are not only ineffective but reflect a flawed view of sanctification, which puts the onus on depression sufferers. Developing a clear theological vision for educational ministry in light of depression is critical to avoid such misguided approaches. Grounding the teaching ministry of the church in the vicarious humanity of Jesus Christ, the author calls Christian educators toward a worshipful mode of educational ministry that bears witness to the perfectly believing mind of Christ.

From p. 2 of the article:

"To respond to this question, I will begin by exploring the cognitive impairment that often accompanies depression. I will then explain how such cognitive challenges may present a problem to certain approaches to educational ministry that overemphasize the cognitive dimension of faith. I argue that such informational approaches reflect a flawed view of sanctification, putting the onus on depression sufferers. Developing a clear theological vision for educational ministry in light of depression is critical to avoid such misguided approaches. Drawing on T.F. Torrance’s understanding of the vicarious humanity of Jesus Christ and James Loder’s theory of bipolar relational unity, I will sketch out a theological framework for educational ministry amid depression. In light of the challenge of depression, I will contrast the informational approach with a worshipful mode of educational ministry."