Grace for the Afflicted - by Matthew S Stanford (Paperback)

About the Book

Why has the church struggled in ministering to those with mental illnesses? As both a church leader and a professor of psychology and behavioral sciences, Matthew S. Stanford has written this thoroughly revised and updated resource to educate Christians about mental illness from both biblical and scientific perspectives.

Book Synopsis

Why has the church struggled in ministering to those with mental illnesses?Each day men and women diagnosed with mental disorders are told they need to pray more and turn from their sin. Mental illness is equated with demonic possession, weak faith, and generational sin. As both a church leader and a professor of psychology and behavioral sciences, Matthew S. Stanford has seen far too many mentally ill brothers and sisters damaged by well-meaning believers who respond to them out of fear or misinformation rather than grace.Grace for the Afflicted is written to educate Christians about mental illness from both biblical and scientific perspectives. Stanford presents insights into our physical and spiritual nature and discusses the appropriate role of psychology and psychiatry in the life of the believer. Describing common mental disorders, Stanford probes what science says and what the Bible says about each illness.Consistent with DSM-5 diagnoses, this revised and expanded edition is thoroughly updated with new material throughout, including eight new chapters that cover

• bipolar disorders
• trauma- and stressor-related disorders
• dementia
• cerebrovascular accidents (stroke)
• traumatic brain injury
• suicide
• a holistic approach to recovery
• mental health and the church

Review Quotes

"Grace for the Afflicted offers the church an account of mental illnesses from a medical and biblical perspective. Stanford speaks a word of hope and grace to those who bear the burden of mental illnesses--patients and families alike. He examines illnesses not often covered in such studies: from traumatic brain injuries caused by accidents, violence, and strokes to personality disorders and dementia. A highly significant addition to the pastor's bookshelf."

"I wholeheartedly recommend Grace for the Afflicted for any pastor or church leader who is looking for a reliable resource on understanding mental illness and treatment from a biblical perspective. Dr. Matthew Stanford's extensive background as a neurobiologist is shaped by his vibrant and personal faith in God as our wounded healer who has compassion on his children who suffer."

"This book contains detailed information and biblical perspective about various types of disorders. It is an excellent reference to better understand the problem as well as help people with mental illness."

About the Author

Matthew S. Stanford holds a PhD in behavioral neuroscience from Baylor University. He is CEO of the Hope and Healing Center Institute in Houston, Texas, and holds adjunct faculty appointments at the Baylor College of Medicine and the department of psychology at the University of Houston.