RLGN 105 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY Critical_Thinking_paper_2024.pdf

RLGN 105 - Biblical Worldview/Critical Thinking Paper

Rachel Whatley

Communications, Liberty University

RLGN 105 - 006

Dr. Matthews

February 25, 2024

RLGN 105 - Biblical Worldview/Critical Thinking Paper

Introduction

The integration of critical thinking when looking at worldviews is crucial to determining

the principles of that view. Without critical thinking, we can be led astray and misinterpret

concepts that add value to our perception of the world. When evaluating topics such as abortion,

we must understand the whole image of what abortion is. Applying critical thinking when

approaching a topic like abortion will allow us to understand better the opinions surrounding the

controversial topic.

Part One: What is a biblical worldview?

Understanding a biblical worldview is essential when living out the life of a Christian.

Paul wrote in Romans 12, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the

renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and

acceptable and perfect” (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Romans 12:2). Taking the

perspective of biblical worldview means understanding that there is one God and that we are

called to see the world through the lens that the Bible teaches. The Bible guides the principal

truths, especially when understanding the will of God. Moses wrote, “In the beginning, God

created the heavens and the earth” (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Genesis 1:1).

Understanding that one God is at the center of it all is the basis of having a biblical worldview. In

1 Corinthians, Paul writes, “Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who

is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God” (English Standard

Version Bible, 2016, 1 Corinthians 2:12). If we believe in the Bible, we have access to the

everlasting love and gifts freely given through the Holy Spirit and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Paul, the apostle, said, “In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following

the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience”

(English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Ephesians 2:2). We were all born of a sinful nature but

believing in the Bible will guide a person to a life of holiness and mercy through their newfound

worldview.

(Words: 280)

Part Two: The reality of life.

The idea of abortion has been around for centuries. It is a topic that is often viewed as

controversial in our society. There are two main stances on this topic, pro-life or pro-choice. Pro-

life favors the idea that from the moment of conception, the baby is alive and is a human being.

Evans said, “People who call themselves “pro-life” support choices too: parenting and adoption

are choices not just accepted but championed by pro-life advocates” (Evans & Freedom, 2023).

Pro-life supports adoptions and other alternatives to abortion. Meanwhile, pro-choice takes an

almost opposite stance on this debate. Piper said pro-life can be seen as “The belief that every

woman should be endowed with the right to her own life and body” (Piper, 2023). According to

this view, no matter the size, gender, or race of the fetus, the female is entitled to her own

decisions and should have the right to choose what she does with her body. While there may be

value in both views, pro-choice does not represent the life of the fetus, while pro-life does from

the moment of conception. Giving us two very different views to determine the worth of an

unborn life.

(Words: 197)

Part Three: It’s a matter of life or death.

Abortion is no light topic. It is essential to evaluate issues such as abortion with care and

understanding that there may be conflicting views. Jeremiah wrote, “Before I formed you in the

womb, I knew you before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the

nations” (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Jeremiah 1:5). I find significant value in this

verse, not only does it mention God is the author, but we are known before we are formed. Life

may not be in form to the naked eye, but from conception, there is life. Those who are pro-life

stand on the value that all life matters from the moment of conception.

Along with that, every life deserves a chance. According to Gray and Wellings, “There

has been a clear shift in recent decades towards a relaxation of attitudes towards abortion”

(Gray& Wellings, 2020). More and more, people are shifting away from the nature of being pro-

life. King Solomon wrote, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him”

(English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Psalm 127:3). From the perspective of pro-life, we see

the Biblical worldview in action. Offspring are a reward from God; as Christians, we should

value this gift no matter the circumstances. However, those who are pro-choice view this claim

as controversial. Norrander and Wilcox said, “Support for abortions always being legal grew

from 21 percent in 2017 to 34 percent in 2021” (Norrander & Wilcox, 2023). This statistic shows

that many value choice over life. The sixth commandment says, “You shall not murder” (English

Standard Version Bible, 2016, Exodus 20:13). From a Biblical the act of abortion can be viewed

as murder going against the Word.

Additionally, King Solomon wrote, “Your hands made me and formed me; give me the

understanding to learn your commands” (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Psalm 119:73).

Understanding a Biblical worldview means following the commands and will of God. Whether

pro-life or pro-choice, it is essential to realize the value of the Bible and the commands God calls

us to follow. Pro-life leads to a faithful understanding of what God commands of His people.

(Words: 361)

Conclusion:

It is crucial to apply critical thinking when understanding worldviews. A vivid

understanding of a worldview will allow you to make rational decisions. A particular decision

that is often viewed as pro-life vs. pro-choice when talking about abortion involves breaking

down the definition and beliefs, allowing one to understand if it aligns with one's worldview.

After thorough investigation, viewing abortion through a Biblical worldview should lead one

towards the belief of pro-life. God created life; the Bible is filled with the commandments

driving a Christian view of life.