What is a worldview?
A worldview is usually described as an individual’s view of other people, the world around them, and their place in it. Outlooks differ greatly among humans, so it is almost impossible to find 2 people with the same one. Worldviews are usually supported by a specific system of beliefs, mainly informed through faith, science, or personal experiences (“What is a worldview?”). A person’s worldview affects their life goals and decision-making process (“What is a worldview?”). There are five major questions that any worldview should answer. This paper focuses on analyzing how these questions are addressed by Christian beliefs.
Biblical outlook on the 5 worldview questions
The first question is the question of origin, the origin of the universe, and humanity. The Bible says that the world and all creatures, including humans, were created by God in six days. It is believed that God made heavens and earth, day and night, water, earth, and the sky, as described in verses 1 to 10 of Genesis. From the nothingness, God created the universe and everything that exists in it, all plants or vegetables, every animal on the land or in the sea. On the last day, God had created humans in His image, both a male and a female. It is said: “in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1-27, New International Version (NIV)). Humans were created to rule over all the other creatures of the earth.
The second question pertains to human identity and the meaning of being human. The Bible proposes that the role of a human being is to rule over other animals, and use the earth’s recourses as they see fit. This assessment is supported by verses from 28 to 30 of Genesis 1 and verses 15-16 of Genesis 2. It is said “Rule over … every living creature” and “The Lord God … put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it … “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden”. The bible suggests that humans should use their skills and knowledge, as well as various recourses to facilitate their growth.
The third question is humanity’s purpose: what should a human’s goal in life be? The ultimate aim for humanity is to become closer to God, to know Him. Humans should strive for eternal life in unity with God, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God” (John 17:3). As stated in Deuteronomy 11, people should love and worship God, obey His commands, and keep His laws.
The meaning of right and wrong is the fourth question that the Christian worldview answers. Through the lens of the Bible, morality is dictated strictly through God’s words and laws. As stated in Ephesians 2, people were saved by God, meaning they should obey His words. The Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 further exemplify this. The commandments are a set of rules that should be adhered to by all believers and used as their moral compass. Going against them is morally wrong and considered a sin.
Lastly, the Christian faith answers the question of destiny and the afterlife. For Christianity, the existence of an afterlife is certain, but its type for an individual person depends entirely on their faith and moral choices throughout their life. Nonbelievers and morally corrupt people receive punishment by going to hell, and righteous believers go to heaven. This distinction serves as a foundation for the Christian worldview, encouraging people to act well.
How Christian worldview influences my treatment of others and voting
Concerning my own relationship with Christianity, its principles often influence the way I treat other people. I always try to remember to treat others kindly and respectfully, as instructed by Ephesians 4:32 and Luke 6:31. I know that it is crucial to keep my composure around others and be forgiving, as that is something taught both by Jesus Christ and the Bible. Regarding the voting, my choice is partially influenced by Deuteronomy 1:13 and I think that experienced officials should be elected, preferably those that share my system of beliefs. I do not think it is necessary to force my faith onto politicians, as that would violate their freedom of religion (Grudem, 2012). It is not particularly important to me if the person I vote for is not Christian, as long as they hold the same values as I do.
References
Grudem, W. (2012) Voting as a Christian: The Social Issues. Zondervan.
What is a worldview? – Definition & Introduction. What is a World View? – Definition & Introduction.