Introduction
New Spiritualism and Christian theism are a solid basis for comparison in the context of “Ten Ways of Looking at the World.” Both worldviews are interesting for learning in the context of what allows us to look at the world differently and perceive different aspects of life. Thus, people’s unique views on philosophy, the world around them, sociology, biology, and psychology can be compared to consider all aspects of each morality in detail. The main ideas of worldviews, their similarities, differences, and logical points of view can be studied to better understand the structure of New Spiritualism and Christian theism.
Central Ideas
New Spiritualism is a relatively modern worldview that substantiates the necessity and importance of a person’s spiritual path as a stage of formation. The main themes and goals of this worldview are in contact with spiritual self-knowledge, which can be provided by increasing personal opportunities (Myers & Noebel, 2015). At the same time, one of the main ways to achieve such spiritual progress in life is a holistic approach that is conditioned by elements of philosophical and religious traditions. In this way, New Spiritualism propagates its goals of increasing spiritual compatibility with the environment, harmony with the cosmos, and transcendence as an element of the soul’s immortality.
On the other hand, Christian theism takes an entirely different approach, which is the belief in God as the central figure of religion for people. This, in turn, makes a significant difference since there is no clear concept of God in New Spiritualism. At the same time, in Christian theism, God is the fundamental principle and creator of the universe and all people. Its primary goal is to atone for humankind’s sins before God to gain forgiveness. Personal relationships with God and inner harmony are important components for Christians.
Comparison
A comparison between New Spiritualism and Christian theism can be made in the context of “Ten Ways of Looking at the World.” The first important aspect in this connection is theology, where in Christian theism, as previously stated, the existence of one main God who created the universe is justified (Stenmark, 2022). At the same time, New Spiritualism differs since there is no clear concept of God (Myers & Noebel, 2015). Instead, there is an acceptance of a panentheistic understanding that sees God as an abstract cosmic force influencing all events in this world. From the point of view of philosophy, the comparison of Christian theism and New Spiritualism can occur through the prism of attitudes towards faith (Myers & Noebel, 2015).
For example, in Christian theism, the basis of this worldview is belief in one specific truth and moral guidelines (Stenmark, 2022). At the same time, the new Spiritualism is more characterized by a specific and subjective approach to truth, which is not always the same. It largely depends on the person’s experience and individual approach, which can provide consideration from several angles.
The ethical basis of Christian theism lies in the teachings and commandments of the one God. On the other hand, New Spiritualism approaches this aspect with a similar concept: people should not harm one another (Myers & Noebel, 2015). From a biological point of view, Christian theism has an ingrained and established point of view. It lies in the origin of life from God, who created all organisms on the planet. New Spiritualism has a combined view of biology that incorporates aspects of Eastern philosophy.
Each person is guided by motivational aspects for actions, which are often determined by psychological factors. The psychological aspect of both worldviews differs in that Christian theism emphasizes sinfulness and the goal of redemption (Keller, 2022). From another point of view, the new Spiritualism has self-knowledge and the disclosure of personal abilities as a central aspect of psychology. Views on sociology differ in that worldviews have opposite approaches. Christian theism, for example, emphasizes collective responsibility, while New Spiritualism focuses the individual’s attention on individual aspects.
The legal side of the issue is important to consider, since both worldviews involve different norms and views. Christian theism can be seen as a reflection of specific provisions of God’s rules (Stenmark, 2022). In lay consensus, these rules can be used to respect human rights. New Spiritualism, however, emphasizes a person’s personal autonomy without limiting their actions. This goes against the foundations of Christian theism since the moral and legal provisions of religion cannot give the same freedom (Keller, 2022).
The political side of Christian theism is defined as the creation of a decent and respectable society, putting the common good first. New Spiritualism, in turn, approaches politics more holistically while focusing on environmental and ecological issues. The economic aspects of Christian theism can be viewed from the perspective of principles of command and control.
One of the main aspects of Christian theism concerning economics is the distribution of resources. The concept of New Spiritualism is to reduce consumption and promote sustainability (Myers & Noebel, 2015). Regarding history, Christian theism sees it as the purposeful creation of God and the development of his plan. New Spiritualism is declared canonical in the cyclical course of history.
Logical Defense
Logical reasoning can confirm the most convincing worldview of Christian theism. I believe in God and Jesus because this worldview is based on key religious principles that logically justify the creation of the world and the management of God. This aspect can be confirmed by cosmological, teleological, and moral elements of logic (Loke, 2022). The cosmological argument points out that every effect must have a specific cause. Thus, any aspect must necessarily have some basis in order to be implemented.
The logical theological argument can serve as proof of the existence of God since the complexity of physiological systems and the functioning of the laws of physics and chemistry indicate the presence of a creator who created everything intentionally. With the help of the moral aspect of logic, one can also argue the proof that God exists, since many ethical values and moral obligations can be based on divine commandments.
Belief in Jesus can thus be logically conditioned since Christian theism is a worldview on which a person can rely in all aspects of life. The New Testament and the Gospel contain much information that proves that God created life and that his laws are true. In this context, the resurrection of Jesus is an event that became a sign to serve as an omen for people to atone for their sins. The fact that several authors write all religious documents may be a logical confirmation that they reflect real historical events (Loke, 2022).
In addition, the existence of God associated with his creations, as well as an explanation of why people were expelled from paradise to more adverse living conditions, convinces us of this worldview. The truth of Jesus’s statements and Christian theism can also be supported by logical and critical reasoning that reveals the worldview as universal, philosophical, and true.
Common Ground
The ideas of the two worldviews mentioned are quite different in their essence, but they can have common ground. One example of such contact between Christian theism and New Spiritualism is the concern for ecology. Both worldviews emphasize the planet’s well-being and how a person should influence the environment (Myers & Noebel, 2015). Thus, thanks to such a common detail, a little community of people could be formed who would take care of nature and try to protect the environment in every possible way. This could potentially provide significant support and unite many people in theological and ecological dialogue.
Social justice can be another common ground that has the potential to bring people together. Both Christian theism and New Spiritualism contain significant provisions about compassion and helping others. In this regard, representatives of these worldviews could unite in a non-profit organization to fight the consequences of social inequality. Such a practical example can have a useful actual impact in helping people experiencing poverty and advancing the rights and needs of certain population groups.
Conclusion
Christian theism and new Spiritualism are worldviews that can significantly influence the social fabric. People governed by their positions can contribute to the global good and unite in certain groups to assist those in need. These worldviews have different views on philosophy, the emergence of the world, history, economics, biology, and many other aspects. This makes each of them a unique and worthy worldview that can regulate many people’s lives and show them the true path to a righteous life. At the same time, dialogue and cooperation are necessary to achieve mutual understanding and normal coexistence.
References
Keller, P. (2022). The Christian approach to psychology. Brigham Young University. 341. Web.
Loke, A. (2022). Evil, sin, and Christian theism. Routledge.
Myers, J. & Noebel, D. (2015). Understanding the times: A survey of competing worldview (5th ed.). David C Cook.
Stenmark, M. (2022). Worldview studies. Religious Studies, 58(3), 564-582. Web.