From the Class Room: Everyone Has a Worldview

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. -Paul (Colossians 2:8)

The Worldview Triangle

Grab a piece of paper. Pen or pencil. Ready? Here we go.

First I would like for you to draw a triangle. Now divide that triangle into three sections. In the bottom section write : worldview. Middle section write: values/principles. Top section write: behavior. Now draw arrows from bottom to top, connecting all three.

Now let me explain.

Everyone has a worldview. Our worldviews is our foundation which shapes our values, in which shapes our behavior. The "behavior" is the result of our worldview. Let me give you an example: If one's worldview states that right and wrong is based on self. One's values may hold onto the idea that sexual relations outside of marriage is alright. Their behavior then may lead to a promiscuous lifestyle for everyone to see. Our behavior is the first thing those in the marketplace will see. When one sees our behavior, they will then see our values. Once our values are known, people will then know our worldview. That is why it is so important to understand our worldview.

Through the years I have come to believe that Paul was one of the greatest defenders of the faith. He had to be! In Acts 17 Paul visited Athens. A city that was polytheistic (belief in many gods) by all means. As Paul was walking the streets he notices altars set up to various god’s. One altar is said to have caught his attention, “The Altar to the Unknown God”. As was custom of the day a group of men, the Council of Areopagus(men who considered themselves as custodians of teachings that introduced new religions and foreign gods, NIV Bible Study), would listen to new ideas. Paul was brought before the council to share with them this "new" idea. The philosophers and others asked "What is this person trying to say?" What happens next is an example of one man using his knowledge of Christ and presenting him in such a way that he did not use Scripture but the very words of the culture's poets. He does not give a three point sermon, but shares his worldview. He refers the people to the altar that had been erected to "an unknown god." Paul opens the dialogue by talking about creation (verses 24-25). He then moves into the importance of humanity (verses 26-28). The dialogue closes with life and death (verses 29-32). As we read the chapter "a few men became followers." Paul was confident not just because of his knowledge of scripture or that he had followed the law as a Pharisee. He was confident because he had personally meet Jesus Christ and now was able to answer the question, "Why do you believe this?". I believe Paul realized that his success in spreading the gospel in his time had to come from having a foundation, and he found that foundation in his worldview. Why would Paul write to the churches about the importance of knowing their worldview?

2 Corinthians 4:4-5
"The God of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus sake."

Colossians 2:4
"I tell you this so that no one may deceive you be fine-sounding arguments"

Colossians 4:5-6
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."

2 Timothy 4:2
"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction."

One may ask you, “What do you believe and why?” “What makes you so confident?” “How can you be so sure?” "What makes you tick?" Your day will come. Will you be prepared, or will you give a Sunday school answer and miss an opportunity to impact someone's life? Your call is more than a missions trip, it is about knowing the "why" for the missions trip! It is more than wearing a Christian t-shirt, it is about the “reason” behind that t-shirt. Our worldview becomes the foundation for all that we do and believe. Without a strong foundation, how will we stand in the midst of those who doubt? How will we respond to the one who wants to know more about the hope we posses through Christ? Our worldview becomes the bedrock on which we stand!

Your salvation is the key to open the door towards a relationship with a true living God! Your worldview is the foundation that will allow people to see Him through you!! Now is your time! Are you ready?

Next week From the Class Room: Everyone Has a Worldview Part 2, I will give you some questions that can help you begin to challenge and build a strong foundation in your faith.

Building the church to be effective in thier culture!

His call. His gift. Your purpose. Irrevocable.