I was born and raised in a very small town. The church was and still is an
enormous part of my life. My family attended a local church with a
medium-size congregation of approximately 80 to 100 members. !The
church fostered an environment of love, unity, and community. It was
common for members to come together often to support one another
outside of weekly worship services; we were a family. We spent most of
our time at church, and even when we were not physically in the building,
our lifestyle would still revolve around the things of God.
Entwistle states that our identity and worldview were inherently shaped
by the influence of family, church, friends, community, and society
(Entwistle, 2015). I have a sincere appreciation for everything that has
contributed to the development of my worldview. After careful review of
the Christian theologies discussed by Entwistle, I believe that my religious
experiences exemplify that of the fundamentalist perspective. Prayer,
fasting, and reading scripture are the foundations for everyday living.
Although it is important that scripture be adhered to, I believe that the
bible should not be used to assert control or personal influence. !As an
adolescent, I can recall often being told that we were prohibited from
attending some events or even wearing certain articles of clothing
“because the bible says so.” !Now that I’m older, I realize that this
response was often used as a method of control to instill obedience.
Although the literal interpretation of the scripture is important, it is
beneficial for fundamentalists to be open to differing views and
demonstrate more concern for the present world (Entwistle, 2015).
I believe that science and Christianity are compatible, but that the Word
of God is the foundation for this integration. I support the position of Pope
John Paul II who believed that Christianity and science can coexist
because their truths emanate from God (Entwistle, 2015, p. 36). There is a
requirement for a degree of open-mindedness from all parties for
integration to occur.
Entwistle states that understanding worldviews helps us to think critically
about the assumptions that we make (Entwistle, 2015). Although the lens
through which we see things is inherited; it’s important to consider that
our worldview may not always be right and take opportunities to re-
examine ourselves. It is beneficial to remain open-minded to different
worldviews as this gives us an opportunity for growth by seeing through a
different lens.
Reference:
Entwistle, D. (2015).!Integrative Approaches to Psychology and
Christianity: An Introduction to Worldview Issues, Philosophical
Foundations and Models of Integration. Third Edition.!Cascade Books.
