What Is a Biblical Worldview Anyway?

It turns out, it’s more like a potluck of perspectives rather than one dish. And thank goodness we don't all bring squirrel stew (a story for another time).

Potluck dinners were made to love them and hate them. I love that I don’t have to cook, and there’s a spread for everyone to find something they like. I hate them because of the mystery involved: Do these contain wheat? Should I play roulette with that? How was this dish prepared? Were there cats in the kitchen? How long has it been sitting out?

The dilemma is real.

For the same reason, a theological potluck raises some questions. Is this biblical? Is it ok to align with this person? Are all these flavors of Christianity going to make my tummy rumble later?

What is a worldview?

Our individual biblical worldviews are like unique dishes at a potluck dinner. Each reflects a distinct interpretation of Scripture, seasoned with personal experiences, cultural influences, and theological understanding. And much like a potluck, these varying perspectives offer a delightful array of flavors and textures that add depth to our understanding of God and his Word.

Merriam-Webster says a worldview is “a comprehensive conception or apprehension of the world especially from a specific standpoint.” Think of it as a framework for how we answer life’s questions and make decisions as we apply our beliefs to our actions.

So, a biblical worldview is when our framework is guided by Scripture – rooted in the teachings of the Bible and how we interpret them in real life. But, let's be real. When we say someone has a biblical worldview, we often mean they see things the way we do.

Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

In my latest podcast episode, I tackled the concept of defining biblical worldview. Spoiler alert: it isn’t a potluck where everyone brings the same dish. There are a lot of different flavors of viewpoints.

Isn’t there just one Bible?

Let me just state the obvious: Christians have diverse opinions on social issues, politics, prayer, and personal choices. This reality opens the door to a banquet of theological perspectives, which can either enrich our faith and strengthen our understanding of God’s love and grace or drive us apart. But we’re sorting this out in community.

Just as a potluck brings people together to share diverse culinary creations, embracing varied biblical worldviews within our faith can lead to a surprising unity that goes beyond theological differences.

When you go to a potluck, do you catch yourself eating what you brought because it’s a safe choice?  That happens with worldview too. As we partake in this potluck of perspectives, we might savor what we bring to the table because it’s made from a familiar “recipe” and made in our own denominational kitchens. But we also need to sample and appreciate what others bring. Each flavor is an invitation to engage in interfaith dialogue.

Steps forward:

How do we begin to get to a place of intelligent discussion? (Meaning not screaming, yelling, accusing, or putting down.) First, we embrace critical thinking. It means observing and analyzing while also being aware of our own assumptions and biases.

Second, studying church history is a great place to begin with learning more about other beliefs and examining our own. We can’t really discuss what we don’t understand.

Finally, focusing on common core beliefs allows us to celebrate the beauty of diversity among biblical worldviews while promoting unity through honoring our differences.

Where are you in your understanding of what it means to have a biblical worldview?

I invite you to join the conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, and perspectives on the biblical worldview that has shaped your faith. Let’s engage in meaningful dialogue, respecting each other’s unique dishes at this potluck of perspectives.

Thanks for pulling up a chair at the table. Together, let’s savor the flavor and richness of our varied biblical worldviews and pursue growth, learning, and community.

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Did you catch the episode? Listen to Life Repurposed episode 184: What in the World Is a Biblical Worldview?

The podcast episode explores the concepts in depth along with how worldview affects various aspects of our lives. There are also several bonuses for paid subscribers.