The Big Difference

Scripture is God-centered. Psychology is man-centered. The Bible teaches that our purpose in life is to glorify God. Therefore, everything else is subjugated to that purpose. Psychology, being man-centered, has as its highest goal the happiness of the individual. This is the foundation for the current emphasis on felt need. If mankind’s ultimate purpose is his own happiness, then all other things in life, including God, become means to secure that happiness.

Psychology teaches that happiness cannot be obtained if one is lonely, lacking in self-esteem, unfulfilled, etc. Therefore, whatever can satisfy these so-called felt needs is a positive thing. But such pursuit shifts the focus of life from others (Philippians:2:1-4 [1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, [2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. [3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. [4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
See All...) and God (1 Corinthians:10:31Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
See All...) to the “all-important” self. This worldview is completely at odds with the scriptural worldview.  Since this is true, to offer God or salvation as the means whereby our felt needs are satisfied is a perversion of biblical teaching at best, and more likely a false gospel.

                   Gilley, This Little Church Went to Market, pp. 64-65