Psalm 94:19: "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me relief."

Psychology is the study of human behavior and mental processes. It is a relatively new science, having emerged in the 19th century. It is divided into an area leaning toward the human sciences—such as social psychology—and another area closer to the hard sciences, focused on laboratory experiments. Does it contribute to the preaching of the gospel, or does it hinder it?

In the Middle Ages, Luther stated that philosophy was the handmaid of theology, helping to explain gospel concepts; philosophy aided preaching. The same can be said of psychology. It exists to help us understand the people to whom we are ministering. It also assists in counseling those going through a crisis.

Therefore, psychology is yet another tool to aid us in preaching the gospel. Although some psychological theorists, such as Freud, were atheists, others—like Carl Jung and Gary Collins—believed in God. If used wisely, psychology can help us preach the gospel and minister to those in despair.