Shawn critiques the concept of a "biblical worldview" by highlighting the inconsistency and impracticality of fully adhering to biblical laws and practices, instead advocating for a "spirit worldview" that emphasizes the fruits of the Spirit, particularly love, as the true essence of biblical teachings. By encouraging a shift from literal interpretations to a spirit-centered approach, Shawn suggests that individuals can find a more harmonious and authentic way of life that aligns with the core teachings of the Bible.
The Illusion of a Biblical Worldview
Misuse of the Term
Today, the phrase "I hold a biblical worldview" is tossed around quite often. People may say it without really considering its implications. It's frequently equated with the sentiment, "The Bible says it, I believe it, and that's all there is to it." While I love the Bible—I teach it twice weekly and study it daily—there's a challenge I want to bring to those who claim they live by a biblical worldview: we don't, and it's misleading to say we do.
Contradictions in Practice
Let's consider some examples. If we truly lived by a biblical worldview, we'd follow the directives found in Deuteronomy 22, which includes stoning people, specifically girls who have lost their virginity. Should we then expect to see bodies strewn across our cities if we lived biblically? You might argue that's not fair, but if you claim to hold a biblical worldview, shouldn't your actions reflect that?
Further, Leviticus 21 dictates that people with physical deformities cannot approach God. Do we adhere to this Old Testament rule? A woman who gives birth to a daughter is considered unclean for 66 days. Does anyone you know live by this? Even those who might try to observe some of these laws certainly aren't practicing all of them—like stoning people.
Inconsistent Traditions
Consider the instructions regarding marriage in the Bible. Brothers are meant to marry their brother's widow if he dies without children. Even Paul specifies that women should cover their heads when praying in church. Do we demand this in our worship practices today?
Jesus himself spoke about divorce, saying that remarrying after a divorce (except in cases of adultery) is committing adultery. Are we following this teaching today? It's evident that we don't live by the biblical worldview.
Understanding the Bible's Role
When someone claims to live by a biblical worldview, it's worth questioning whether they truly do. The Bible is a history and an inspired account intended to mend the alienation between God and mankind. It traces this narrative from creation through the establishment of Israel, to the promised Messiah, and finally to Jesus Christ's ministry, deathSeparation from God—now overcome. Physical death remains, but it no longer separates us from life with God., resurrection, and promised return. This historical context is the biblical worldview.
Conclusion
We have never truly lived a biblical worldview, at least not in the past several decades, and certainly not here in the United States. It's essential to recognize the distinction between appreciating biblical teachings and claiming to live by all its historical and cultural contexts.
Embracing a Spirit Worldview
Understanding Worldviews
When we talk about worldviews, it's essential to recognize the difference between a biblical worldview and a spirit worldview. The distinction is critical because it influences how we live our lives and interact with others.
The Limits of a Biblical Worldview
A biblical worldview is constructed around letters and words, as found in the scriptures. However, Jesus, through Paul, highlighted an important truth: "the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." If you attempt to use the Bible strictly as a literal manual to shape your worldview, it can lead to conflict, animosity, and a failure to embody the true intention of the teachings, which is love. This literal approach can result in fighting with others, fostering hatred, and not truly living out the law by the Spirit.
Embracing a Spirit Worldview
Instead of strictly adhering to a biblical worldview, consider adopting a spirit worldview. This perspective focuses on the fruits of the Spirit as described in the Bible, which we trust and study. The fruit of the Spirit is love, and by embracing this, we align ourselves more closely with the essence of the teachings, encouraging love and harmony in our lives.
A Call to Reflect
When someone claims to live by a biblical worldview, challenge them to reflect on their approach. Encourage them to consider whether a spirit worldview, centered around love as the fruit of the Spirit, might offer a more fulfilling and harmonious way of living.
