Turning the Lens on Ourselves
Review
A worldview describes the framework or paradigm – the lens through which we view, process, even judge people, circumstances, and events in our world. Our values and belief systems are formed from our worldview. It is not too strong a statement to say that our worldview affects every area of our lives, including relationships and religion (whether one has any or not).
What is meant by the phrase “secular worldview or secular humanism”?
The bottom line of what makes a worldview a secular one is clear. Man (or woman) is at the center of this view; they are their own “gods”. Moral absolutes do not exist. Morals are relative. Fairness and justice are high on their lists but completely depend on their personal views.
Understanding the terms “Cultural Christian” and “Progressive Christian”
Cultural Christian. This one is the easiest to address. Cultural Christians are not Christians at all. They identify (a popular word choice in our culture) as Christian because they are not Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, or other religion. They believe in Jesus but not Jesus of the Bible. They often believe getting into Heaven is a function of doing more good than bad.
Progressive Christian.
Focuses more on social issues than the commands of Christ and truth clearly laid out in Scripture.
The Biblical Christian Worldview
Biblical Christians have not just identified with Jesus Christ but in humility, repented and surrendered our lives to Him as Savior. We now live to make Him Lord as well. Life becomes a living sacrifice and testimony to the world. (Romans 12) The way we live and view the world comes thru the lens of Scripture. That includes all areas of life: marriage, parenting, education, politics, science, our work lives, and activities we choose to engage in/those we avoid.
Challenges to our Biblical Christian Worldview
- Direct demonic and satanic attacks on our homes (families)and at work or school. Sowing seeds of doubt and despair in the hearts and minds of Christians to render us powerless, without faith and strength to overcome because we lose focus on Jesus.
- MEDIA of every kind: printed, electronic, social.
TURNING THE LENS ON OURSELVES
An honest look at how you see yourself, others, and our world
- “I am the greatest!” (Cassius Clay/Muhammed Ali)
“An argument started among them as to which of them might be the greatest. But Jesus, knowing what they were thinking in their heart, took a child and stood him by His side, and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in My name receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me; for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great.” Luke 9:46-48
- Not Part of Your Holy Huddle…outsiders
John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name; and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow along with us.” But Jesus said to him, “Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you.” Luke 9: 49-50
- They Did Not Do What You Asked…Let’s Kill Them!
When the days were approaching for His ascension, He was determined to go to Jerusalem; and He sent messengers on ahead of Him, and they went and entered a village of the Samaritans to make arrangements for Him. But they did not receive Him, because He was traveling toward Jerusalem. When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” But He turned and rebuked them, [and said, “You do not know what kind of spirit you are of; for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”] And they went on to another village. Luke 9: 51-56
Remember Everyone Needs Jesus! All have sinned; He is the only way. Share that!
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 3:23; 6:23
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” John 14:6
For godly sorrow produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world brings about death.” 2 Corinthian 7:10
My prayer is the Holy Spirit has spoken to your spirit thru this brief message. I suggest you watch the video version or listen to the full audio of it, both links are on this site. Right now before you do anything else, do as Jesus commanded: Repent of your sins and Believe He is Who He says He is and receive Him as Savior today. He is waiting with open arms!
For Christ’s sake,
