Others Magazine

Theology and psychology come together in this new book by Anna Neff and Mark R McMinn.

Reviewed by Sam Wan

As a practical theologian and someone who has gone through mental health issues, I am incredibly impressed with this new piece of work from InterVarsity Press.

Embodying Integration is written by a theologian (Neff) and a professor of psychology (McMinn), and the results speak for themselves.

In today’s world of siloed Christian academia, it is hard to find the art and science of integrative studies explored without being frowned upon. Yet this book accomplishes this without being either pseudo-psychology with a Christian bent or a pseudo-pastoralia with a psychological bent.

I am impressed at this book’s true integration of theology, practical theology and psychology. In addition, it is thoroughly holistic and deep. From foraging in the deep waters of the Imago Dei, the debate of penal substitutionary atonement, and the centrality of Missio Dei, the writers have thought deeply about how theology integrates with humanity and practice.

Written in a winsome manner, it is, however, suited more for those with basic theological training under their belt and has explored the basics of pastoral ministry. Yet, notwithstanding this, it pays off in dividends by equipping pastoral workers and ministry-minded people to better understand a redemption of psychology and better their practice of counselling for those whom they serve.