Section 1
Biblical Worldview
1. Defining a Biblical Worldview
Video
Having a biblical worldview fundamentally means that we view the world through the lens of Scripture.
This means that above all else, the Bible is the soil from which our worldview grows. A biblical
worldview, then, seeks to understand life based on the teachings of the Bible. A biblical worldview
includes principles that can be applied and adapted to any cultural setting and topic, ranging from one’s
work to marriage to government.
In this chapter, we’ll address two important aspects of developing a biblical worldview. First, developing
a biblical worldview means that we must remain faithful to essential biblical teachings. It is difficult to
view the world through the lens of the Bible if we do not know what it teaches. Second, in developing a
biblical worldview, we seek to best approach nonessential issues in ways that show the love of Christ
while remaining faithful to our biblical convictions. A biblical worldview is not focused on every little
theological detail; rather, it is a broader way to view the world through a few core truths that shape our
basic understanding of existence and meaning.
The Essentials of a Biblical Worldview
Discussing the essentials of a biblical worldview assumes that Christians generally agree on which issues
are essential and which issues are not. This is not always the case. For example, one person may believe
that eternal security (the belief that a true Christian can never lose his or her salvation) is a biblical
essential, while another person may not. However, Christian leaders and theologians have generally
agreed on at least seven important essentials that unite all Christians.
The first essential is the existence of God. The existence of God is an obvious core doctrine of
Christianity. Without belief in God, there would be no Christianity. Perhaps out of all of the essentials,
this is the one with which every Christian agrees. Worldview is affected by this doctrine in the sense that
if God exists, there is a higher power to which we are held accountable. Our decisions are made in light
of the existence of an almighty, all-knowing God, who created the world in which we live.
The second essential is salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus alone (Eph 2:8–9). Though
salvation is taught differently in many Christian denominations, these three “alones” must be central to
the doctrine. Salvation is a gift by grace. “Grace” simply means “unmerited favor.” God has shown
unmerited favor to people across the world by offering salvation to them. Though grace is offered, faith
is also required. To be saved, a person must place his or her faith in Jesus. There are no works that are
sufficient for salvation. A person can merit nothing on his or her own. Ultimately, the provider of grace
and the recipient of faith is Jesus Christ. Grace came through Jesus and faith is placed in Jesus. Under no
other name can anyone be saved (Acts 4:12). This essential forms the Christian’s worldview in that all of
life is surrendered to Christ in response to his sacrifice and the grace we receive through faith. For the
believer, all of life is “a living sacrifice” (Rom 12:1).
The third essential is that Scripture, the sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, is God’s inspired and perfect
revelation (2 Tim 3:16). This means not only that we view the world through the lens of the Bible, but
also that we view it as the highest authority on earth. It shapes our worldview because of its absolute
truth, which transcends any other “truth” we can create. Since the Word of God came from God himself,
there is nothing more perfect and more authoritative than the Bible. Precisely because of this authority,
Scripture must be the basis for a biblical worldview. This essential does not just influence our worldview;
it defines our worldview. Anything in conflict with the truths within the Bible must be discarded when
forming a biblical worldview. This also differentiates biblical Christianity from faiths that accept other
“inspired” sources such as the authority of the Pope (for Roman Catholics) and sacred tradition (for
Roman Catholics and the Orthodox Church).
The fourth essential is belief in the Trinity. Not only do Christians believe that God exists, but they also
believe that God is three persons in one. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all distinct, yet are
all one God. Christians believe that each member of the Trinity has a specific function but together as
one, they completely depict and demonstrate God. This concept informs the biblical worldview in that it
provides an understanding of who God is. If the existence of God proves that there is a God to be
accountable to, the concept of the Trinity defines what sort of God he is. It provides a clear framework of
God, his characteristics, and how to respond appropriately to him.
The fifth essential is that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died for our sins and bodily rose from the dead
three days after his crucifixion. If the Bible is the authority of the biblical worldview, then the
resurrection of Jesus Christ is the hope of the biblical worldview. The entire Christian faith hinges upon
this belief, and the hope of the Christian beyond this life can rest nowhere else. To deny the resurrection
of Christ is to deny the conquering and defeat of sin. This essential moves beyond the function of Jesus
as part of the Trinity, placing him at the culmination of redemption. A worldview founded upon this truth
is strong enough to withstand any cultural pressures. Martyrs have given their lives for Christ for
centuries based on this truth. If the resurrection is true, then it changes everything.
The sixth essential is the belief that sin is real, and through sin the entire world has fallen short of God’s
standards. Sin created barriers to the original, unbroken fellowship Adam and Eve experienced with God.
Through their sin, the entire world has fallen under the curse of sin. Not just humanity alone but all of
creation has fallen under sin. This does not change the fact that humans are made in the image of God.
Sin does not take the image of God away; rather, it distorts that image. The idea of sin is incredibly
important to the biblical worldview in that it provides a framework to explain evil in the world. If the
world is indeed fallen, then evil should be expected. Further, sin provides the reason for broken
fellowship with God and explains the necessity of Christ.
The seventh essential is that Christ will return to earth one day to complete the redemption of
humankind. There are several different views as to what Christ’s return will look like, but ultimately every
believer agrees that Jesus will return and that through his return all people will be judged. Those who
believe in Jesus will live eternally with him on a new earth (Revelation 21–22). Those who choose not to
believe in Jesus will experience eternal separation from God. This last essential is also incredibly
important to the Christian, as the return of Christ is imminent and moves Christians to urgency in the
work of the ministry. Every lost person in the world needs to know Jesus. It is the responsibility of the
church to share the gospel with people (Matt 28:18–20). With this in mind, the imminent return of Christ
changes the perspective of what is important on earth for believers.
Each of these essentials will be developed in the following chapters of section 1 of this book. Within
these seven essentials are teachings that must inform Christians as part of a biblical worldview. Each of
these seven core teachings of a biblical worldview also includes additional aspects of great importance.
For example, the literal human death of Jesus on the cross had to take place before his bodily
resurrection. The resurrection assumes his death. The idea that sin destroyed fellowship with God
implies that fellowship requires restoration, revealing the need for Christ’s work on the cross.
There are also many details that are disputed among various Bible-believing Christians within each of
these areas. For instance, some people believe the Bible teaches that Jesus will return for believers in
the rapture, while others believe he will return to judge both believers and unbelievers at the same time.
Yet both views hold to the doctrine of Christ’s return, which is essential for all believers.
Discussing Nonessential Aspects of a Biblical Worldview
Many other topics are important in the Christian life, yet they would not be considered essential for
agreement among all believers in all places. In addition, nonessential aspects can vary in degree or
importance. Some Christians believe it is very important to celebrate Communion, or the Lord’s Supper,
every Sunday during worship, while others do so less often. Both agree on the importance of
Communion, but they differ regarding other aspects of this practice.
Other areas are more controversial. For example, all Christians agree that salvation is by grace through
faith (Eph 2:8–9). Most Christians believe baptism is important, but many do not believe it is essential in
saving a person—although some do. Various practices have developed throughout Christian history,
including infant baptism, baptism by sprinkling, baptism by pouring, and baptism by immersion. Entire
denominations have developed based on believers’ convictions in this area. It is certainly important, but
it is secondary to salvation by grace through faith.
How can we discuss nonessential aspects of a biblical worldview? First, we study to show ourselves
approved (2 Tim 2:15). It is important to know what the Bible says on a topic to help determine our
biblical beliefs. As stated in the essentials of the Christian faith, the Bible is the final authority on the
biblical worldview. Therefore, the Bible’s teachings must be sought out and explored when considering
anything the Christian is faced with. Marriage, careers, degrees, politics, social justice and activism,
parenting, and more must be based on the Bible. Thus, even when speaking of nonessential aspects of a
biblical worldview, they must be compared and conformed to what the Bible says.
Second, we can investigate various views regarding biblical interpretation. God has gifted many people
throughout the church’s history with insights regarding difficult topics. Studying the writings and
teachings of past godly leaders can assist us in better understanding difficult topics. Since the beginning
of the church, brilliant and godly men and women have searched through the truths of Christianity. Now
we have over two thousand years of compound knowledge and teachings to draw on. Of course, there
may be many and various teachings on a subject, which is why ultimately even these great theologians
must be compared to Scripture. However, often these great teachers of the present and the past will
help provide deeper understanding of all passages, hard and easy alike.
Third, we can determine the strengths and weaknesses of the major views of biblical topics. For some
topics, there may be a particular view that is most likely, though other views are possible. For example,
the gifts of the Spirit—specifically, the gift of speaking in tongues—have varying interpretations. Some
would suggest that speaking in tongues is normal and necessary for a Christian. Others would suggest
that the Spirit determines who receives this gift and that not all have the gift, nor do all need it. Still
others would deem speaking in tongues reserved for the apostolic age and no longer needed or given of
God. Even further, there are those who say that speaking in tongues was never even a gift at all. All four
of these interpretations are based on Scripture, yet which one is accurate? After examining all Scripture
pertaining to this topic, read the varying interpretations. Based on that, it is likely that you will see which
of these views are seriously flawed and which are stronger.
Fourth, we can decide the most likely interpretation of a topic. Paul wrote regarding how a Christian
views certain days, “Let each one be fully convinced in his own mind” (Rom 14:5). We can be “fully
convinced” of a view and then live accordingly. After studying and searching through the Bible, the Spirit
and our conscience together can guide us through varying interpretations, helping us decide which is
best. We can then live according to a biblical worldview, while also showing grace to those who hold
differing views in these areas.
The most important thing is learning to live in a manner consistent with our worldview. Perhaps one of
the best examples of this is in regard to alcohol. Many Christians suggest that alcohol is totally forbidden
in the Christian life. Other Christians suggest that alcohol is permissible as long as the person refrains
from drinking to the point of drunkenness. The Bible has been used to defend both views. There are
examples of drinking alcohol, drunkenness, and celebrations of drinking wine in the Psalms (Ps 104:15),
yet simultaneously there are warnings against alcohol and encouragements to avoid it (Prov 20:1; Eph
5:18). A person from one culture may see alcohol as a hindrance to the furtherance of the gospel and
thus choose to abstain for the sake of the gospel. A person in another culture may see it as socially
acceptable and deem it appropriate in moderation. Each believer must evaluate such choices in light of
the biblical mandates to be filled with the Spirit and to avoid even the appearance of evil (1 Thess 5:22).
Conclusion
The Christian life is simultaneously a life of defining, defending, and deliberately living a biblical
worldview. At the moment of conversion, a person immediately begins to adopt a biblical worldview. Yet
with the process of spiritual maturity, one’s biblical worldview continues to mature. For example, the
music listened to or movies watched by a person at the moment of conversion may drastically change
five years later as a result of spiritual growth and personal holiness. The way a person speaks or treats
other people may change at the moment of conversion, yet ten years of following Christ should increase
kindness, gentleness, patience, grace, and love toward others. The way a person views politics, social
issues, and relationships will most likely change as he or she matures in faith as well.
A biblical worldview is rooted in truth. The biblical worldview never changes, but the Christian being
sanctified is consistently conforming to the biblical worldview as he or she grows closer to God in
holiness and fellowship. It is important to define a worldview based on the Bible, but it is just as
important to keep comparing your worldview to the Bible as you grow in the faith. Further, it is
important not to look down on new Christians who may still be at the beginning of their development of
a biblical worldview. Instead of looking down on them, we can help guide them to a better
understanding of a biblical worldview by modeling a biblical lifestyle ourselves.
2. The Existence of God
4. Scripture: The Authority for the Biblical Worldview
Video
No other book in the world has ever sold more copies than the Bible. Strangely enough, the bestselling
book in the world is often one of the most hated and despised books as well. What one person may
understand as a love letter from God, another may see as an outdated book that hinders modern
cultural progress. This should not surprise Christians. The Bible holds powerful messages from what it
describes as the one true God. Though the Bible offers the hope of the saving grace of God through Jesus
Christ, it also carries a message about everlasting punishment for those who fail to place their faith in
Jesus.
The Bible was not written in a social vacuum; therefore, it has much to say about how we ought to live
our lives. It specifically addresses issues of honesty, integrity, and morality. The Bible expresses
commands, principles, and guidelines for successful living and right relationships. It speaks clearly about
matters of marriage, family, and society. The application of these biblical truths informs the basis of one’s
biblical worldview. If the Bible can be trusted, then what it teaches really matters when it comes to
informing how we live our lives.
There is incredible controversy surrounding the Bible. Therefore, it is imperative to understand whether
or not the Bible can be trusted. If the Bible can be trusted, then Christians may rest well by standing on
the solid truths of Scripture despite opposition from a randomly changing culture. The initial stage of
forming a biblical worldview is to understand what the Bible is, what it says, and why it matters.
The Bible Claims to Be from God
The basic concept in understanding the truth of the Bible is that the Bible explicitly claims to be of divine
rather than of human origin. God revealed the words to humans to write, as though God himself had
written it (2 Pet 1:21). Before exploring evidence of the Bible’s authority, it is important to understand
exactly what the Bible says about itself.
The Bible often claims to be the “word of God” or the “word of the Lord” (Matt 4:4; 15:6; Mark 7:13; 2
Cor 4:2; Eph 6:17; Heb 4:12). Especially in the Old Testament, writers say, “This is what the Lord says …”,
“God said …”, “The Lord spoke/said to …”, and “The word of the Lord came to.…” This indicates that the
biblical writers claimed this was the work of a higher authority, rather than of themselves. This concept
is known as revelation. In other words, the biblical message claims to have been revealed by God
himself.
The process of divine revelation is known as inspiration. This means that God inspired the writers to
write his message for the benefit of people. Paul writes, “All Scripture is inspired by God” (2 Tim 3:16).
The Bible also claims inerrancy, which means that the Bible was written without error and has authority
over human reasoning (John 17:17). The Bible claims that it is from God and not from humans, and that
it should be regarded as such. If the Bible were merely of human origin, it would be fallible rather than
infallible. If the Bible is from God, then followers of Jesus must take Scripture as authoritative as to how
we are to live our lives. Believing the Bible means accepting its message as truth. If we really believe it,
we should be willing to live our lives accordingly.
Defending the Bible is not about defending a religious book but about accepting God’s truth and helping
others understand these same truths. The following are a few reasons the Bible can be trusted as God’s
Word.
The Unique Message of the Bible
One of the most convincing evidences for the truth of the Bible is the unique message it contains. There
is no book in the world like the Bible. When comparing the message of the Bible to that of other
religions, there is no other religious text that comes close to matching it. Lewis Sperry Chafer, founder of
Dallas Theological Seminary, wrote, “The Bible is not a book a man would write if he could, or could
write if he would.”
First, the God the Bible describes is different than any other “god” recorded in the history of religion.
There are some gods that share similar attributes, but no god contains all of the attributes,
characteristics, and power of the God of the Bible.
The Bible also presents Christ as a God-man. In Greek and Roman religion, there are certainly accounts
of those who are demigods (half god, half man). Hercules for example was represented as a demigod.
Yet, other than Jesus, as recorded in the Bible, there is no other being that is fully God and fully human
at the same time. This is an entirely unique teaching in the Bible. (See John 1:1–18; 5:17–47; Phil 2:6–11;
Col 1:15–21; Hebrews 1.)
The Bible also teaches that humanity is inherently evil and sinful, separated from God, deserving
condemnation. Other religions often teach that people are basically good. Some religions may teach that
people are not as good as they can be, but not that people are inherently evil, sinful, and hopeless. This
message is unique to the Bible because it accurately describes the human condition without God, which
leads to eternal punishment in hell.
The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace through faith apart from works. Other religions teach that a
person can attain its version of salvation by doing enough good works. In other words, every other
religious text emphasizes that people must work their way to God. By contrast, the Bible teaches that
God has come to us in the person of Christ (John 14:9–10).
The Unity of the Bible
The Bible’s unity is another great reason to believe it to be true. Consider the following facts:
1. The Bible was written over a period of 1,500 years by forty different writers. Many of the human
writers did not know each other due to time and location.
2. The Bible was written on three different continents (Europe, Africa, and Asia).
3. The Bible was written in three different languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
4. The Bible was written under different types of circumstances. For example, Moses wrote in the desert,
Jeremiah wrote in a dungeon, Solomon wrote from a royal court, John wrote on an island, Luke wrote
while traveling, David wrote in the countryside, Daniel wrote in a pagan palace, Ezekiel wrote in exile,
and Paul wrote in prison.
5. The Bible was written in different moods and styles. Some writers wrote with ecstatic joy; others
wrote as depressed exiles, in worry, or in peril as they ran for their lives. Some wrote in poetry, others
recorded historical details; some wrote biographical narratives, and some wrote prophecies of future
events.
Despite these unique differences, the Bible presents a unified message of hope to a fallen world. It
pictures God as a Redeemer who extends grace, pardon, hope, and forgiveness to all who trust in him.
Prophetic Accuracy in the Bible
Prophecy was taken so seriously in the Bible that giving a false prophecy was punishable by death (Deut
18:20). True prophets of God would not speak unless they were sure God had commanded them to do
so. For example, the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah were reluctant to speak until they were convinced
their messages were from God (Isa 6:1–13; Jer 1:4–10).
Given that nearly one-fourth of the Bible is prophetic in nature, the undefeated accuracy of the Bible’s
prophecies speaks volumes to its credibility.
Consider the following prophecies in the Bible that literally came true:
1. Abraham and Sarah would have a son (Gen 15:1–6; 17:1–5; 18:1–19).
2. Joseph’s ten older brothers would bow to him (Gen 37:1–11).
3. A member of David’s household would rebel against him (2 Sam 12:7–12).
4. The northern kingdom, Israel, would be overthrown, but the southern kingdom, Judah, would be
preserved (1 Kgs 14:15; Isa 7:6–8).
5. Judah and Jerusalem were spared from the Assyrians but fell at the hands of the Babylonians (Isa
39:6; Jer 25:9–12).
6. The destruction of Samaria was final, but that of Jerusalem was followed by a restoration (Mic 1:6–9;
Jer 29:10–14).
7. The exile to Babylon would last seventy years (Jer 29:10–14).
8. The Medes and Persians overthrew Babylon (Isa 21:2; Dan 5:28).
9. Peter would deny the Lord three times (Matt 26:31–34).
10. Paul would witness for the Lord in Rome (Acts 23:11).
These are only a few of the nearly five hundred predictions listed in the Bible that actually came true.
Some were fulfilled within a few hours (Dan 5:30); some within a few days (Exod 9:18); some within a
few years (1 Kgs 21:17–19); and some many years later (Ezek 26:3–6). Over one hundred predictions
about Jesus were literally fulfilled during his earthly ministry. For example, that he would be born of a
virgin (Isa 7:14), born in Bethlehem (Mic 5:2), betrayed for thirty pieces of silver (Zech 11:12), and that
his hands and feet would be pierced (Zech 12:10).
Scientific Accuracy in the Bible
Though faith and science are often pitted against one another, the Bible speaks of scientific truths
centuries and millennia before science “discovered” these facts. Even when the Bible was said to be
inaccurate scientifically, modern science has proven it to be true after all. Consider the following
scientific facts found in the Bible preceding the scientific discovery of these facts:
1. The process of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation was described by Isaiah (Isa 55:10) and
Solomon (Eccl 1:7) centuries before scientists knew how it took place.
2. The Bible stated that the sea has paths within it (Ps 8:8; Prov 8:29) well before this fact was discovered
by scientists.
3. Scientists used to believe that diseases could be cured by bleeding them out of a person’s body.
Modern science now recognizes that excessive blood loss results in death. Yet the Bible stated this fact
millennia ago in Leviticus 17:11, when declaring that the life of a creature is in the blood.
4. Ancient theories held that the earth was resting on something (back of a tortoise, the back of
Hercules, and so on), yet the Bible explicitly stated that the earth is suspended over nothing in Job 26:7,
and this book is possibly the oldest in the Bible.
5. People once believed that the earth was flat, yet the Bible declared in Isaiah 40:22 that the earth was
round.
Historical Accuracy in the Bible
Critics of the Bible for centuries have deemed that it is false because of a lack of historical evidence of
specific people or places within the Bible. Yet, through the advancement of archaeology and science,
these critics are continually proven false and the Bible proven true. For example, Belshazzar (Daniel 5)
was often thought to be fictitious until recent evidence surfaced, depicting him to be exactly what the
Bible claims he was. The following events, people, and cultures have all been verified by the
archaeological discovery listed in parentheses:
1. Royal line (“house”) of King David (Tel Dan Stele).
2. Israelite King Omri and Moabite King Mesha (Moabite Stone, or Mesha Stele).
3. Israelite King Jehu (Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III).
4. Judean King Hezekiah (Sennacherib Prism, or Taylor Prism).
5. Persian King Cyrus (Cyrus Cylinder).
6. King Herod the Great (Herodion tomb).
7. Jewish High Priest Caiaphas (Caiaphas ossuary).
8. Pontius Pilate (Pilate Stone).
9. Roman Proconsul Gallio (Delphi Inscription, or Gallio Inscription).
10. Roman Proconsul Sergius Paulus (Sergius Paulus Inscription).
This is a partial list of hundreds of such archaeological confirmations of peoples (such as the Hittites),
places (such as Nineveh), individuals (such as Nebuchadnezzar), and historical events (such as the fall of
Babylon) recorded in the Bible. Luke alone, in his Gospel and in Acts, records thirty-two countries, fifty-
four cities, nine islands, and several rulers, all of which have been confirmed by archaeological findings.
Hundreds of such findings help verify the historical credibility of the biblical record.
Sola Scriptura
Sola scriptura is a Latin phrase that means “by Scripture alone.” This phrase is the title for the belief that
the Bible holds the ultimate authority in doctrine, life, and practice. In forming a biblical worldview, there
is no compromise when it comes to the Bible. Despite whatever pressures are placed on the Christian to
conform to culture and society, we must stand fast upon the Word of God as the final authority in this
life and beyond.
The Bible is also authoritative in all areas of life, including money, sex, marriage, family, friendships,
parenting, adoption, lifestyles, politics, and more. The Bible must be both believed and applied. Paul
proclaims in Romans 3:4, “Let God be true, even though everyone is a liar.” It is a book designed for all of
life.
In summary, the Bible claims to be God’s written truth, a view supported by both historical and scientific
evidence. Therefore, Jesus said, “The one who is from God listens to God’s words” (John 8:47) and “You
will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
CHAPTER FIVE
WHAT IS A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW?
HISTORY: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY
A worldview is your philosophy of life. It is the framework you bring to decision-making. Each of us
comes to a decision with certain presuppositions (something you assume to be true from which you
begin your thinking). An atheist would have the presupposition that God does not exist and formulates
his or her decision-making based upon that basic background belief. A Christian begins with the
presupposition that God exists. The biblical/Christian worldview begins with God who can be known
through His creation of and revelation to humankind.
There are many good approaches to communicating the biblical/Christian worldview. At the outset, it is
important to define the terms we are using. The term biblical is added as a descriptor to indicate the lens
or filter that will be used to formulate this worldview. We believe the Bible is the inerrant, inspired Word
of God. It is the text that will be used throughout this chapter. The term Christian is used to identify the
specific religious approach we are taking as opposed to other religious groups who also use parts of or
the entire Bible in the formulation of their worldview.
History is a story of God and His creativeness and interaction with humans. It reveals the good, the bad,
and the ugly way humans have responded to their Creator, and the story continues in all of our lives as
we respond to His revelation.
This revelation of God to man can be described in two specific ways: general revelation and special
revelation. Humans are incapable of knowing and being in relationship with God apart from His
revelation. That is because humans are finite beings and God is infinite. God wants to be in relationship
with His image bearers, and He reveals Himself to them through these methods. General revelation is
God manifesting Himself at all times and in all places to all people. Special revelation has occurred in
special unique times to specific persons in various ways. Today, this occurs through the knowledge of His
Word, the Bible.
GENERAL REVELATION
God can be known in a general way by humans through two primary methods: nature and the creation
of men and women as His image bearers. David, the psalmist said, “The heavens declare the glory of
God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night
they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard” (Ps 19:1–3). The
apostle Paul also added this commentary, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—
his eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been
made, so that men are without excuse” (Rom 1:20). According to these and other passages, God has
made Himself known in a general way which should cause humans to further investigate His revelation.
The second method of general revelation God has used to manifest Himself is through His unique
creation of men and women as His image bearers. We see evidence of this in four distinct ways. First,
one can see evidence of God in the conduct of people, which is distinct from the animal kingdom.
Romans 2:14 says, “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the
law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law.” Why do humans act in a
moral way at all? Although deficient by the fall, it comes from being created in His image.
Another way we can see the evidence of God in creating men and women as image bearers is through
our conscience. Paul says in Romans 2:15, “Since they show that the requirements of the law are written
on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even
defending them.” Why do humans even have a conscience? Scientists debate over the influence of
nature and nurture. God has placed that inward faculty (conscience) in all of humanity, which
pronounces judgment upon our attitudes and actions as being either right or wrong, and prompts us to
do what is right. Again though, this faculty has been impacted negatively by sin and cannot be fully
trusted. Nevertheless, it does exist and cannot be ignored.
The third way is evidenced through human codes. Although moral diversity exists between cultures, a
study of “the golden rule” gives evidence that this moral concept has been taught by various religious
and moral teachers throughout history. From Confucius to Buddha and from Jesus to Plato, the
treatment of others has been communicated in a similar fashion. How could this similar moral concept
be taught in such diverse cultures?
The fourth way is evidenced by human conflicts. This was previously addressed in chapter three. What is
the first thing you assume when you are in an argument with another person? Did you say, “I’m right.”?
What is the second thing you assume? Did you say, “They’re wrong.”? If so, you have answered similarly
to our residential students. Even by the nature of a disagreement, there is a basic understanding that
someone or something is right and someone or something is wrong. More importantly, it gives evidence
that there is a right and a wrong that ultimately originates in the very nature and character of God in His
creation of human beings (for further study, see C. S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, chapter one).
General revelation is limited in its scope. Because of the fall, humans were separated from God and
limited in their natural ability to know and have intimate fellowship with God. Humans needed a final
authority for our creed and conduct. God chose to continue to communicate with humanity in special
and specific ways. What humans are incapable of knowing through general revelation, God has made
known through His special revelation.
SPECIAL REVELATION
Special revelation occurs when God makes known vital truths which cannot be known through general
revelation. Although we are limited in our understanding of God’s relationship to Adam and Eve before
their sin in the garden of Eden, God was in relationship with them. Adam and Eve knew that they had the
freedom to enjoy His creation, but they were not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil
(Genesis 3). How did they know this? God had to reveal it to them. God has and continues to
communicate truths to mankind through two primary ways: the Bible and the person of the Lord Jesus
Christ (the Incarnation).
The Bible includes historic events in which God did the miraculous. He did some of these special things in
full view of His followers as well as those who worshipped other gods. These events were then written
down under the leading and moving of the Holy Spirit of God (2 Pet 1:19–21).
Some examples of these types of divine interventions include the birth of Isaac to the elderly Abraham
and Sarah (Genesis 17; 21), and the parting of the Red Sea for the children of Israel, followed by the
destruction of the Egyptian army who were in pursuit of them (Exod 14–15). Other examples include the
miraculous protection of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego from the fury of King Nebuchadnezzar’s
wrath in Daniel 3 when they walked unscathed from the fiery furnace in which they were cast. “They saw
that the fire had not harmed their bodies, nor was a hair of their heads singed; their robes were not
scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them” (Dan 3:27). The Bible also records that God spoke to
individuals audibly as He did to Noah (Gen 8:15) and to Moses (Exodus 6). He also spoke to men in
dreams and visions (Genesis 20; 28).
The most significant method of God’s special revelation to humanity is in the incarnation of the Lord
Jesus Christ. God “became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). The writer of Hebrews begins by
saying, “In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various
ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son” (Heb 1:1–2).
Jesus Christ made it clear when He said, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This
was made evident through His unique virgin birth (Matt 1:23), His sinless life (2 Cor 5:21), His miracles
(Acts 2:22), and most powerfully in His death and resurrection (Rom 6:9). Jesus is the Son of God and
God the Son. Here God’s revelation is experienced in Word and in deed.
God’s special revelation is communicated to us specifically today through His written Word, the Bible.
Second Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting
and training in righteousness.” The Biblical/Christian worldview then can be shared with others as a
metanarrative. It is a story that begins with the creation of the world and the special creation of man in
the garden of Eden. It was a beautiful beginning that took a tragic turn when Adam and Eve decided to
rebel against God’s will. As a result, sin and death entered the world. The rest of the story is God’s work
of reconciliation and redemption of humankind. It is a love story. It is a story of God’s love and grace to
each and every one of us.
CREATION
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Gen 1:1). It all began with God. The Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit (the Trinity) were all actively working as One in this beautiful creation story. He did
not create from matter that which preexisted. God spoke the world into existence, creation ex nihilo
“creation out of nothing.” God existed before anything, seen or unseen. The apostle Paul describes the
role of Jesus Christ in this story when he wrote to the church at Colosse. He said,
For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones
or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and
in him all things hold together. (Col 1:16–17)
God is not the product of man’s imagination or the result of some internal need to find meaning and
value to life. The psalmist declared “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; their starry host by
the breath of his mouth” (Ps 33:6). God in His great omnipotence created the heavens and the earth,
and by His great power creation is sustained. While God is present and actively involved in this creation
story, He is clearly above His creation and not a part of it, as in pantheism. There must be a clear
distinction between the Creator and the created. God is not bound by laws of nature, but He is sovereign
over and autonomous of His creation. He is not governed by His creation, but He is independent of it.
The first chapter of Genesis provides a beautiful synopsis of the six days of creation. In six literal 24-hour
days, God did this amazing work. In chapters 2–3 the creation story is retold, but with an emphasis on
the creation and initial responsibilities and activities of Adam and Eve. Today, theologians debate the
interpretation of Genesis 1–3. They attempt to put God into an evolutionary box that tries to
accommodate secular modern science. As soon as anyone denies the validity and authority of Genesis
1–3, it undermines the entire Bible. If the foundation is destroyed, the truths described in the rest of the
Bible are questionable at best. If one cannot trust God’s Word in creation, how can it be trusted at any
other point?
During these six days God created everything in the heavens, from the sun, the moon, the stars and all of
the galaxies that astronomers and stargazers marvel at through their telescopes. He also shaped and
formed the earth and separated the waters from the land. He created plants and animals as well as the
birds in the sky and the fish in the seas. God looked at His creation during the first five days and declared
that “it was good” (Gen 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25). On the sixth day, God created man and woman and saw
everything that He made and declared that “it was very good” (Gen 1:31).
Everything that God is and does is good. The psalmist said, “You are good, and what you do is good” (Ps
119:68). God in His very nature is good. There is no flaw or deficiency in His nature nor in His actions. If
our interpretation of God’s nature and/or actions is anything but good, it stems from our lack of
understanding or knowledge. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,
declares the Lord” (Isa 55:8).
God is the source of all that is good, and His goodness can be seen in the beauty of His creation. To some
it is best described in the vastness of a starlit night or in the intricate detail of a flower. To others it is
seen in the grandeur of high mountains, oceans, rivers, and streams. The beauty of God’s creation
surrounds us all of the time if we stop long enough to notice and experience it.
GOD SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST
The culmination of God’s initial artistic activities involved the unique creation of humankind. The Bible
indicates that it was the collective work of the Trinity. Genesis 1:26 states, “let us make man.” God in
perfect harmony formed man “from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of
life, and the man became a living being” (Gen 2:7). The Scriptures reveal that God gave Adam the
responsibility of naming the animals. Adam realized that for animals there were males and females, but
for him there was no counterpart. God then put Adam to sleep and took a rib from his side and made
woman (Gens 2:21–22).
Adam and Eve were uniquely created by God. The rest of His creation was spoken into existence.
Humankind was specially formed by the hand of God. In addition, the Bible says that “God created man
in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Gen 1:27).
God declares to the rest of His creation that man was the only one of its kind. A creation made in His
image with a body and an everlasting soul; a “living being” (Gen 2:7). Humankind was distinct from the
animal kingdom. He was distinct from plants and planets. Nothing was made like Adam and Eve.
What does it mean to be created in the image of God? An image is not the original. Humans are distinct
from their Creator. They do not share in His divine nature, but they are to resemble or be like Him in
many other ways. First, men and women are to be a reflection of God to the rest of creation. They reflect
God by sharing attributes such as speaking, hearing, reasoning, loving and giving. Adam and Eve were
created with a perfect ability to express and share those attributes. Although as their descendants we
have been impacted by the fall and may not possess all of the potential characteristics, we can and are to
use the attributes we possess today.
Secondly, man is to live in fellowship with God. Adam and Eve had the unique privilege of walking and
talking with God in the garden of Eden until sin interrupted that intimate relationship (Genesis 2–3). By
our very creativeness there is an inner longing and desire to be in relationship and fellowship with God.
That was God’s design. He wants to be in fellowship with you. That is why eternal life is defined by Jesus
Christ in John 17:3 as: “that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have
sent.” Life, eternal life, is to be in relationship with God.
Third, humankind is to act as His representatives and stewards to all of creation. Genesis 1:28 says, “God
blessed them [Adam and Eve] and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and
subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves
on the ground.” Man is to rule and act as a steward over God’s creation. “The Lord God took the man
and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it” (Gen 2:15). A steward does not own
anything, but he manages the property of the owner. God has put humans in charge of taking care of the
planet and all living things. The Bible does not forbid man from eating plants (Gen 1:29) and animals for
food (Rom 14:14), nor using its resources (Deut 8:9). Nevertheless, as His image bearers, we are
entrusted to apply His character to His creation and not misuse it.
But why did God create? It was not because He was lonely or that He needed anything. It is a part of
God’s nature to be creative. He is the divine Creator. It was His will to create. The apostle John declared
in Revelation 4:11, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power; for you
created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” He also wanted to express
love to His creation. God is love (1 John 4:8), and He expresses that love through His goodness to man
(James 1:17). As the Westminster Short Catechism states, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy
Him forever.” God created man for His glory and for man to enjoy the blessings of God (1 Tim 6:17).
THE CAPACITY TO CHOOSE
Everything was in place for man to truly glorify God and enjoy Him forever. However, God did not create
Adam and Eve as puppets. He created them with a capacity to make choices. They were able to make
choices that had good results as well as choices that had bad results. By creating Adam and Eve with the
capacity to choose between good and evil, God had created them in love. True love must be freely given
and not forced through creative coercion. Adam and Eve were given the right to reject God’s love and His
commandment not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
It was not a free will in the sense that it was absent from influence. God was there and He was in
communion with them. He had blessed them and given them beauty to enjoy and all of their needs were
met. But Satan was also in the garden. At some point after the sixth day of creation, Satan rebelled
against God and sin entered the world (Ezek 28).
In Genesis 3 we find Satan, speaking through the serpent, having a conversation with Eve in the Garden
of Eden. He begins the conversation by questioning the Word of God. “Now the serpent was more crafty
than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You
must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” (Gen 3:1).
God had clearly communicated to Adam and Eve His desire that they were not to eat from the tree (Gen
2:16–17). Like the temptation of Christ in the wilderness in Matthew 4, Satan attempted to trick Eve into
ultimately denying the Word of God. Satan lied to her. He said, “You will not surely die” (Gen 3:4). Eve
and Adam decide to reject the Word of God and to believe the word of Satan. Eve being tricked by Satan
(2 Cor 11:3) ate the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and she also gave some to her
husband Adam, and he ate it (Gen 3:6). Sin entered the world. They tried to hide from God because they
saw each other’s nakedness and were ashamed (vv. 7–8). They hid themselves from God, but they could
not hide from the results of their sin.
The consequences of this decision did not just impact Adam and Eve. It impacted all of creation,
including everyone who would be born of man throughout future generations. Creation was impacted
negatively by the fall. The apostle Paul said, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in
the pains of childbirth right up to the present time” (Rom 8:22). All of humanity would be negatively
impacted by the fall. “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man [Adam], and death
through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned” (Rom 5:12). Humans not only
choose to sin, but all of humanity is born as sinners. David declared in Psalm 51:5 “Behold, I was brought
forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me.”
Immediately the results of sin were evident. According to Genesis, Adam and Eve hid from God when
they were designed to be in intimate fellowship with Him (Gen 3:8). Adam, as the husband of Eve, would
now lead her in headship rather than mutual selfless cooperation and love (3:16). Childbearing and work
were also impacted by sin’s curse (vv. 17–19). Although it is not clearly stated, innocent animals designed
to be enjoyed by man were killed to clothe Adam and Eve’s nakedness (v. 21). Blood was shed because of
sin. Here is the first biblical example of the foreshadowing of the innocent Lamb of God, Jesus Christ,
who would have to shed His blood and die for the sins of the world (John 1:29). God’s original design was
stained and the need for redemption became necessary. As one reads the rest of the story of the Bible,
God’s love and grace are put into action. The salvation story of redemption begins.
SALVATION
The story of God’s redemption is ultimately the story of God’s free gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus
Christ. Michael W. Goheen and Craig G. Bartholomew in their book, Living at the Crossroads: An
Introduction to Christian Worldview, describe three characteristics of God’s saving work from a biblical
worldview. They indicate that it is “progressive,” “restorative” and “comprehensive.” It is progressive in
that it begins in the garden and continues to this day. It is restorative in that it is about “reclaiming His
lost creation, putting it back the way it was meant to be.” It is also comprehensive. Although His main
emphasis is the salvation of humans, all of God’s creation is in need of restoration. “Simply put, salvation
is the restoration of the whole of God’s good creation.”
REDEMPTION
Salvation is pictured many ways in the Bible through five key terms. They are redemption, regeneration,
reconciliation, justification, and sanctification. The first term, redemption means to pay the price for
another’s freedom. First Peter 1:18–19 says, “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as
silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your
forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” Jesus Christ paid
God’s redemptive price for the sins of the world. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that
in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor 5:21). God’s plan of redemption was
ultimately not fulfilled through animal sacrifices but by the selfless sacrifice of the Son of God, Jesus
Christ.
REGENERATION
The second way salvation is pictured is in the term regeneration. It means to be “born again.” “Praise be
to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pet. 1:3). When Jesus was confronted by
Nicodemus at night (as described in John 3), Nicodemus believed that Jesus was from God, but he did
not know the way to God. Jesus answered him, “you must be born again”—first by physical birth and
then by spiritual rebirth (John 3:5–7). Being “born again” is not some strange religious belief by some
weird radical Christ followers. It is a teaching from the Word of God regarding a rebirth spiritually.
Because mankind is born in sin, we need to be reborn spiritually to enter into the family of God. Keep
reading and we’ll explain how that happens.
RECONCILIATION
The third term is reconciliation which means to restore peace and fellowship to a broken relationship. As
we have already seen, “When God created man, He made him in the likeness of God” (Genesis 5:1). But
when Adam and Eve broke the one rule God had given them, their spiritual connection/relationship with
God was broken. Their sin separated them from God. We read in Genesis 5:3, “When Adam had lived
130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image.” From Adam’s first son to today, mankind is
born into Adam and Eve’s sinful likeness, so we need to be reconciled, to be restored in our relationship
with God.
Not only are we separated from God, the Bible describes our condition as. being enemies of God.
Colossians 1:21–22 says, “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because
of your evil behavior. But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death.” God is
Holy, (Isa 6:3) and sin alienates humans from God. Because sin separates man from God, sin is His
enemy. Those who embrace sin are controlled by it. After Adam and Eve sinned, God was not satisfied
with man’s condition. His plan was to reconcile humanity back to Himself through His Son Jesus Christ.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not
perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to
save the world through him.” (John 3:16–17).
JUSTIFICATION
The fourth term is justification and comes from a Greek word meaning to “declare righteous or holy.” It
has also been used to describe a person who was declared free from guilt in a court of law. Those who
have been saved by Jesus Christ have been justified. “Through him everyone who believes is justified
from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses” (Acts 13:39). Good works cannot
save a person so that they can go to heaven. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and
this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Eph 2:8–9).
Justification comes by being justified by God; “and are justified freely by his grace through the
redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Rom 3:24).
An example of this can be found in the New Testament when Jesus was on trial. Pontius Pilate could find
no fault in Jesus, and he thought of a way for Jesus to avoid being crucified. It was customary to release a
prisoner, sentenced for crucifixion, during Passover. Pilate knew that the chief priests were envious of
Jesus and that is why they wanted Him crucified. He assumed the people would want an innocent man
released (Mark 15:9–10). But the Chief Priests provoked the crowd to release a known robber and
murderer, Barabbas, instead of Jesus. Barabbas was guilty and his punishment was death. But against his
better judgment, Pilate justified Barabbas and he was no longer under the penalty of the law. That is
what happens when a person is saved (justified) by Christ. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of
God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23).
SANCTIFICATION
The fifth term is the word, “sanctification.” It is a word that means “to set apart.” It suggests the idea of a
person who is set apart from this world and unto God. The apostle Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 6
some of the unrighteous actions of people. But then in verse 11 he says, “And such were some of you.
But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and
by the Spirit of our God.” (NKJV)
Sanctification includes the idea of a person being clean before God and set apart to do His will. People
often believe that their sin is too great for God to forgive. This is not true. God does not want anyone to
die and go to Hell. He wants everyone to repent and be saved (2 Pet 3:9). There are also Christians who
live a defeated life as if their past sins hinder them from being used by God. “Therefore, if anyone is in
Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor 5:17). Christians should not
believe the lie that they are bound by their past sins; they have a new beginning in Christ. Then, once
this new life is realized, they are to be partners with Christ in the process of reconciliation and
redemption (2 Cor 5:18–20).
CHRIST AND CULTURE
It is one thing to know the biblical/Christian worldview, and it is another thing to live it within one’s
culture. It is important to understand that this worldview uses the Bible as its filter for spiritual and
religious truth and practice. It is another thing to know how to apply that knowledge in everyday life.
In 1951, H. Richard Niebuhr wrote a book entitled Christ and Culture that described the way Christians
characteristically approached their culture. What was true then is still true today. Christians often do not
know how to respond to their culture. Although greatly abbreviated, the following represents his basic
conclusions.
CHRIST AGAINST CULTURE
One of the approaches taken by Christians is to be against anything the world has to offer. It sets up a
false dichotomy between those who are Christians and everyone else who is worldly and evil. The
Christian is to affirm his or her loyalty to Christ and reject the influence of the culture. It is clearly evident
that culture in and of itself provides little value to living the Christian life. According to 1 John 2:15,
Christians are commanded, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world,
the love of the Father is not in him.” The world is seen under the influence of evil and is to be avoided.
CHRIST OF CULTURE
This approach not only embraces all who claim to be followers of Christ, but it embraces the world as
well. They do not see a tension between the church and the world. They adapt to culture and imitate the
culture in their style of worship and in their lifestyle. This is not to say that they are not followers of
Christ and His Word. They are followers who understand Christ through their culture. They understand
His Word best through an interpretation of cultural happenings. Christ comes alive when experienced
through culture.
CHRIST ABOVE CULTURE
This approach views a blending of Christ and the culture. Culture is not to be viewed as completely evil,
but rather that good works taking place in the culture should be emphasized. The culture is viewed as
“both divine and human in origin, both holy and sinful” (p. 121). Christians who take this approach make
ethical decisions according to both Christ and the culture. Adherents of this approach see a harmony and
balance between Christ and the culture. They view the Bible as authoritative but laws created by man
are also from God and are to be followed. However, Christ must be viewed above culture and when the
two are in conflict, Christ must be followed. The tendency is unfortunately to conform to the culture
rather than to conform to Christ.
CHRIST THE TRANSFORMER OF CULTURE
Christians are to be in the world but not of the world. This means that they are not to be transformed by
the world, but they are to be transformers of the world through Christ. Jesus prayed to the Father and
said, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.
They are not of the world, even as I am not of it” (John 17:15–16). Christ has called His followers to be
“salt and light” (Matt 5:13–14). God can transform a “human life in and to the glory of God” by His grace
(p. 196). Apart from Christ, humans are incapable of transformational living. “But with God all things are
possible” (Matt 19:26).
CREATION VERSUS THE CREATOR
History is a story of God and His creativeness and interaction with humans. And history reveals that not
much has changed since the beginning of time regarding how we humans (finite as we are) respond to
our Creator (infinite as He is). In this chapter, we have considered several ways God has revealed Himself
to His creation, and how He has made provision to restore the relationship of His creation to Himself. Yet,
throughout history until now, many still choose to worship the creation rather than the Creator. In
chapter eight, we will be looking at other alternative worldviews that are ascribed to by many today.
These alternative worldviews put their trust in the creation rather than in the Creator. But in the next
chapter, we would like to share with you our understanding of the message of salvation that is provided
solely and sufficiently by Jesus Christ to all who will believe in Him.
