The third ingredient of a worldview is knowledge about what we can know and how we can know it.[1] As I stated, I believe the Bible is God’s true Word. The apostle Paul writes that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17). While the Bible is the primary source of knowledge, especially on all things spiritual, it is not the only source. I can gain knowledge by observing the world around me and using reasoning and logic to determine truths not explicitly outlined in the Word. Science and mathematics use logical thinking and reasoning to understand things. The best way to expand my knowledge is to be ever seeking answers, either in the Bible for divine revelation or through my sensory experiences. This is an ongoing process as I strive to be more like Christ in all I do.

Anderson’s fourth ingredient is ethics.[2] Many believe there is an innate understanding of right and wrong in all people, myself included. However, I believe that a sense of morality must be measured by a standard, which is God’s Word. The Bible is the ultimate source of judging right from wrong as it compares all to the one perfect and just judge, the Lord God. The problem with moral decay is the free will that God designed us with. While we may have a sense of good or evil, right or wrong, we also can choose which path to take. For those who turn away from God, with hearts of stone, the way to evil choices and sin becomes a wide road (Matt 7:13-14). In today’s postmodern society, even conservative Christian values are replaced by progressive thinking that undermines the truth and promotes unbiblical principles. Moses warned about the corruption of the Word (Deut 4:2), and I believe we need to be doubly careful today not to let societal feelings undermine His instructions as to right and wrong.

The fifth ingredient to review is salvation; Anderson refers to the fundamental human problem and the solution to that problem.[3] I believe we would be hard-pressed to find someone who does not think something is wrong with this world. Daily we hear that if this or that happened, the world would be a better place. Ultimately the evil and corruption in the world can be traced back to sin and the fall of man, in my opinion. While we may not be able to obtain freedom from the effects of evil decisions or influences, we can rest assured in our eternal salvation gained by the belief and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord. Those who freely submit to the will of God receive a new heart where the Holy Spirit dwells (John 14:15-17). This indwelling of the Holy Spirit encourages us to live godly lives making wise choices about right and wrong.

Working through Anderson’s logical thinking has helped me understand that my worldview is primarily conservative Christian. That is not to say that this label encompasses all my beliefs. I have strong feelings about topics where the answers cannot be found in the Bible, such as the agreement with the capitalist economic view or having a good work ethic. I have compassion for others, but I believe the current “woke” thinking has perverted some perfect fundamental ideals. As far as politics, well, that is another paper in and of itself.  I understand that I am a work in progress and must continually work to gain knowledge about matters I do not understand. While I may have strong opinions about specific topics, I must compare the issue with Biblical truth. Armed with a strong understanding of my worldview, I can share it with others and be prepared to defend it if needed.

Have a blessed week!

Pastor Michael

[1] Ibid.

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid.