Blame It On The Brain? Distinguishing Chemical Imbalances, Brain Disorders, and Disobedience

by Edward T. Welch

This book is part of the “Resources for changes lives” series published by The Christian Counseling and Education Foundation in Glennside, PA.

Welch discusses his view of what the brain is in relation to man’s soul.  He then challenges us by asking questions as to what should have more authority the Scriptures or brain science.  He challenges us to think through  this issues biblically. 

We are reminded in the book that the brain cannot make us sin, but that the brain or body can reveal the sin that is in our hearts.

 In the section dealing with Brain dysfunction,  Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are given a chapter of discussion.  Then head injuries are looked into.   These injuries often reveal pre-existing spiritual problems.  To quote Welch, “Thus it is not surprising that one of the best predictors of post-injury problems is pre-injury character.”

 The central portion of the book is given to discussing psychiatric problems.  Depression, ADD, and ADHD treatment with medication is discussed along with the need to confront an individuals sin.

 The final section of the book is dedicated to a section entitled.  “The brain didn’t do it.”  Deals with homosexuality and alcoholism two conditions that our society chooses to call inherent or genetically induced, whereas Scripture calls both of them sin.

 I would encourage believers to take the time to read this book.  I believe we can all be challenged in that too often we want to blame our sin on others when in reality it comes from our inner sinful desires.  These we must confess, repent of and resist so that God may get the glory for the change that He brings in our lives.