Christian Worldview Case

Worldview Assignment

I. A worldview is a perspective on the world or universe. "It is a person's philosophy of life, a framework a person brings to decision making, and a filter or lens which a person uses to interpret life and the world around them." (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011) " The 1989 edition of the Oxford English Dictionary defines worldview as a "... contemplation of the world, [a] view of life ..." Our worldview is formed by several factors including our upbringing, the culture we live in, the music and movies we absorb, our education, and the books we read. "A biblical worldview is based on the infallible Word of God. When you believe the Bible is entirely true, then you allow it to be the foundation of everything you say and do." (Tackett)

II. Part Two:

1. The Question of Origin - The question of origin is entirely rooted in God. Genesis 1:1 tells us about the creation of the earth and the heavens. Genesis 1:27 tells us that God created man in His own image. "Theism contends that everything that exists, including humans, is the result of God, the Creator God. God is said to have created Ex Nihilo, "out of nothing."' (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011)

2. The Question of Identity - In the Christian worldview, identity is constructed by the understanding of who we are in God's eyes. We are beings made in the image of God. The scriptural answer to this question is found in Genesis 1:26-27. "Theism views God as eternal and that mankind is a special creation of God." (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011)

3. The Question of Meaning/Purpose - "Theists believe that the purpose of mankind is to know God. Christianity is about a relationship with God and not simply following the tenants of a religion" (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011) The purpose of mankind is found in John 17:3.

4. The Question of Morality - Mankind was created good, but sin entered the world through Adam according to Romans 5:12-14. As a result of this sin, man has fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). This means that as humans, we are inclined to disobey. However, we still have a standard by which we know the difference between right and wrong. The ultimate standard is God Himself who is holy and separate from all evil. "The standard of morality is present in all humans in their conscience, but ultimately exemplified in Jesus Christ, so the Christian is to follow God's moral standard." (Lefebvre, 2011)

5. The Question of Destiny - Growing up in church, we learned about Heaven and Hell. "Heaven and Hell are both literal places where people exist eternally either in the presence and blessings of God in Heaven (Revelation 21:1-7) or in a state of separation from God, being punished in Hell (Revelation 20:11-15)." (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011)