But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. – 1 Peter 3:15
Examining Your Biblical Framework
Whether it is recognized or not, every human being has a worldview. A worldview is the overall interpretation of reality based on ideas, beliefs and attitudes that influence the way one sees life and the world. These concepts help mankind create a global image of the world, identify with society and man’s place in it. While some worldviews can be common, the perspective can be radically different from another individual as they are uniquely crafted by experience, background, religion, art, culture, ethics, politics, media, and more. Ultimately, these influences will take shape and form a framework or philosophy around a person’s life.
Have you ever stopped to think about how many religious worldviews exist in our culture today? From Buddhism to Secularism, we all know and interact with individuals who have very different world beliefs that compete with ours – Christianity, a belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, the One we put our faith in.
Even today, we see so many different Christian denominations and doctrines claiming to deliver the gospel message and central truths of the Bible. It can be unclear which denominations are under the deity of Christ; especially when teaching truth based on laws and rituals. This can lead to confusion, uncertainty and misunderstanding (Colossians 2:8-9). This lack of unity in the church has left a sign of great weakness, causing others to view Christianity as fragmented, judgmental and/or intolerant.
You might be the only Jesus someone sees! << Click to Tweet
Regardless of our daily encounters, as ambassadors of Christ, we should behave and conduct ourselves in a way that is worthy of the gospel.
Communicating what we believe in an effective way – that points people to biblical truth – requires an understanding of biblical principles, respect and tolerance.
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15)
Building a Framework
Most of us believe what we have been taught. When we add the influences of media, for example, all these experiences are going to help shape the framework around our lives.
As Christians, how do we know what is true?
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 4:14)
I thought I was confident in effectively witnessing and sharing the gospel message to others.
As an American Expat, living abroad in a culturally diverse neighborhood, I didn’t realize how much of an influence our community plays in our daily life. For example, think about how much being plugged into the media alters our thinking and mood for the day. This experience has birthed a desire in me to have a deeper understanding of my faith and the barriers that exist in our society.
Unplugging and tapping into God’s Word daily, can help keep us on solid ground!
With the help of Paul’s teachings in the Roman Epistle, we are able to apply a precious framework around our beliefs. God receives glory and honor when hearts and minds are covered with His living Word:
5 Foundational Truths
1. The Natural World – God is the source of all things sacred and secular. Those who accept the clear evidence of God as the Creator also see that He is the Creator of grace and love.
“For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” (Romans 1:20)
2. Human Identity – Though Adam and Eve’s sin introduced the human race to spiritual and physical death, Jesus offers us salvation. Because of this biblical truth, we can embrace the joy of living a spirit-filled life and have confidence in knowing their identity is in Jesus Christ.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
3. Human Relationships – Trusting that God will manifest a Christ-like spirit and strengthen our character can sometimes feel like a great challenge in this fallen word. Yet, the way we treat God and each other is something He is watching very closely.
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10). “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
4. Culture – In this fast pace lifestyle of the 21st century, it seems our culture is bombarded with social evils. Even for the most seasoned Christians, it can seem challenging at times to resist temptation which leads to sin. By taking our thoughts captive, we can live a Godly life.
“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)
5. Purpose & Destiny – God’s purpose for our lives is that we become like Jesus. Trusting that God has a great plan for us in this life is important, but the ultimate reward is everlasting.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” (Romans 8:28-29)
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” (Romans 8:17)
Is your worldview divided between the sacred and secular? How does your worldview influence the way you think, treat and speak to others on a daily basis?
By adapting a biblical worldview, we can see the big picture of God’s creation, fall, redemption and restoration and begin to see our life and the world around us through God’s eyes.
Which biblical truths have you applied to structure your framework?
Angele is an American Expat living in Europe with her husband and their three lively boys. In a house full of males, she enjoys retail therapy and everything girlie! Angele is an imperfect woman living in an imperfect world. She loves the Lord, but fails Him daily. She welcomes the good news that His love never fails. She never saw herself as a writer, but believes everyone has a story to share and is grateful that God has given her the courage to bless through her mess(ages). After giving into His unmatched voice, Angele created Angel Dancing as a place to spread her spiritual wings and sprinkle seeds of faith around the world. He is the Creator, she is only His messenger. Angele hopes your steps of faith will be the dance of your life!