Self-Disclosure in biblical Perspective

Abstract

In recent years there has been a strong emphasis in mental health circles on the value of honesty and openness in interpersonal relationships. This emphasis has had considerable influence on evangelical thinking. Keith Miller (1973), Bruce Larson (1971], Paul Tournier (1967), and others have pointed out that meaningful Christian fellowship is impossible without self-disclosure. Encounter-like groups have been suggested for opening honest channels of communication among church members. For the Christian, biblical teaching should be the standard for life and practice insofar as Scripture has anything to say on a topic. In this paper the authors examine the biblical basis for, and limitations for, self-disclosure.