Developing a Biblical Worldview
Last week, we got to hear an awesome perspective on what a Biblical worldview is from the wonderful Kayli Peoples. I highly recommend checking that article out HERE. While we couldn’t really even scratch the surface of what encompasses a Biblical worldview, I really think it was an excellent start to get y’all thinking about what constitutes a Biblical worldview, and why it is important to develop one for yourself. Now, you might be wondering how to do that since we didn’t really tell you every single component of this worldview. Well, you’re in luck, because today we’ll be talking about how to develop a Biblical worldview.
Did you know that “only 17 percent of Christians who consider their faith important and attend church regularly actually have a Biblical worldview,” according to a research study done by Barna in 2018? Last week we learned that everyone has a worldview, and a worldview rooted in anything but the Bible cannot possibly exist alongside a Biblical worldview. So if these Christians don’t have a Biblical worldview, where are they finding “truth”? I won’t go into all of the details here, but if you’d like to read into more of this, here is the article on the research study I’ve been referencing. To give just a brief summary of what was found in this study:
“Of practicing Christians:
61% agree with ideas rooted in New Spirituality.
54% resonate with postmodernist views.
36% accept ideas associated with Marxism.
29% believe ideas based on secularism.”
These worldly ideas are inherently in opposition to Scripture. Does that scare you a little bit? It definitely scares me a little bit. While Christians may have good intentions aligning with the ways of the world to appear more empathetic and open to change, the Bible tells us:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will. -Romans 12:2
As Christians, I believe it is apparent to confront our beliefs and ask where they can be found in regard to Biblical truth. As Christians, our beliefs need to align with all that the Bible says to be true and honorable without throwing out what we may not want to hear. And as Christians, it is our responsibility to be so in line with Scripture that we are able to discern what is of God and what is of the world, even if it means going against what the world demands of us.
So you might be asking, “Regan, how can I develop a Biblical worldview, and how can I be sure what I believe aligns with the Bible?” Well friend, I am so glad you asked. While I could try to tell you every facet and nuance to what constitutes a Biblical worldview, I think we would both soon realize that it would be nearly impossible and/or take approximately five years. That being said, there are a couple of strategies I can point you toward.
Establish a Daily Quiet Time
This is one of the biggest things you can do to root yourself daily in God’s truth. I personally recommend starting each day praying, reading Scripture, and allowing space for God to center your heart on him. If you’re not a morning person (or start your days at 5:30 a.m. like I do), then find another optimal time in your day to seek the face and the truth of our Creator. I promise you, you’ll learn to cherish that time you set apart.
Surround Yourself with Fellow Believers
They say “you are what you eat.” This applies to more than just physical food, but also those you choose to surround yourself with. Now, I’m not saying to abandon any friends who aren’t professing Christians, but I am saying to be careful and discerning of who you spend your time with. Similarly,
Watch the media you consume
It’s easy to sway from your beliefs when all the things your eyes and ears consume point you away from the truth of God’s word. I’m not saying to delete Instagram; social media can be a wonderful tool to advance the Gospel, find cool Biblical resources, and find cool Christian creators (like us here at Koinonia 😉). Just be careful to focus on what is true, what is noble, what is pure, what is lovely, and what is admirable (Philippians 4:8).
When in doubt, seek knowledgeable, Biblical Counsel
This is a big one. We will all stumble. We’re human. Thankfully, God calls us into vulnerable, true relationship (hey there, Koinonia) with Christians who might be a little further along in their walk with the Lord. More often than not, these people in your life would LOVE to talk with you if you’re uncertain how to reconcile what you believe to align with the truth of the Bible. If you don’t have a close friend or confidante further along in their walk with Christ, reach out to a pastor or adult you respect at your church (make sure you’re plugged into a local church!). Trust me, it will be so helpful.
Dig Deep in Scripture
The Bible is the only place we know to contain entirely truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that
“16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
What a blessing it is to have the direct word of God through which to build our worldview. Getting into your Bible is the most important way to build a Biblical worldview. Read the Word daily. Really digest it. Memorize it. Allow it to always be at the forefront of your mind.
“Here are some pivotal worldview scriptures to get you started:
Hebrews 13:1-9
Galatians 2:19-21
Romans 12
Matthew 19
James 1:2-4
Colossians 2:8
Galatians 6:7-10 ”
There are so many more Scriptures I could list, but these are some that I’ve found incredibly important to developing my own worldview. This world will always ask you why you believe what you believe. Be sure you’re equipped to point to Scripture as your foundation. The world is ever changing in beliefs and actions, but thankfully the Word of God is absolute truth and unchanging.
I hope this was helpful to you today, friend! Stay tuned as we dive into Biblical worldview and politics next week!