The last couple of evenings I have been reading a book called A Rebel’s Manifesto by Sean McDowell. Sean’s dad is Josh McDowell, one of the very first apologists I ever heard of. He wrote the early classic Evidence that Demands a Verdict. Sean’s book is mainly geared to young people who must make decisions concerning life, worldview, etc, but I am learning it is a very valuable book for adults as well.
In chapter 4, which he entitles Think Christianly, Sean talks about his dad being his hero. He remembers his dad making a statement which still has a profound affect on him:
When you read an article or book always discern the assumptions of the person who wrote it. Their assumptions will shape everything they write.
That is so true! It is called a worldview. As I read Neil Shenvi’s book, Why Believe, (very slowly I might add), every quote, every idea, is coming from a specific worldview. Naturalism. Secular humanism. Existentialism. Atheist. Theist. How we look at the things of God all flow from our own worldview.
I have a Christian worldview (and won’t apologize for it), so everything I look at will be seen through that filter. I will navigate my world through that map. I will look at current events, everyday happenings, sickness, trials, etc. through that map. That is why it is so important for me-for you- to have the mind of Christ (Col. 3: 1-2). See things through the lens of Christ. Not only does it affect how I see things BUT it also affects how I interact with people who may or may not agree with me or my worldview. Moral differences come from different worldviews.
But here is another truth: each person has dignity and despite their worldview-different or the same-they are to be treated with respect and a listening ear. I can listen without compromise or without “dissing” them.
Hold fast. Listen well. Treat with respect. No compromise.
Good thoughts Bill, I completely agree. I think that is where we as Christians can either help or hinder… By choosing to respect the individual despite our differences. Respecting an individual does not mean supporting a cause or agenda… It does not mean agreeing with a lifestyle or choice. It simply means loving someone despite that lifestyle or choice. Just as God loves me despite my choices at times.
That is exactly the point I wanted to make Ryan. I may not agree but I also don’t need to hinder the Gospel by being obnoxious and rude.
I totally agree, Bill! As Christians, we should never apologize for the way we see the world, but we should pay attention and listen to others without judgment. Who knows? Because of what we say and how we act, we may bring others to Jesus.
Blessings!
Your last statement Martha “Who knows…” is the crux of the matter. The old song flows through my head: “and they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love…”
Perfectly said Bill, totally agree. Father help us always to hold fast, listen well, treat with respect, NO compromises. May your view and your word be our stronghold, but help us to present that view to world as Christ would present it. Always with love and truth.
Thanks Gail. I totally agree that God’s Word and God’s way needs to be our guide.