The World View

Pilgrim Bible Baptist Theological Seminary
Christian World-View
The Believer’s Perspective of Life
Name:____________________________________________
Professor:__________________________________________
PBBTS- Christian World View 2
Course Content
I. What is a World-View?
II. The Necessity for Divine Revelation
III. What Has God Revealed about the Origins of Life?
IV. What Has God Revealed About His Work in Creation?
V. What Has God Revealed About TRUTH
VI. What is my Purpose on Earth? Why Am I here?
VII. The Christian’s Perspective of the WORLD
VIII. Practical Principles Resulting from a Christian World-View
IX. A Comparison and Contrast of the Major Religious World Views
X. An Overview of various World Views

The Believer’s Perspective of Life
I. What is a World-View?
A worldview is a perspective of life. It is how you see things in the world around you.
Everyone has a perspective of Life.
Everyone has a worldview though he may not be able to identify it or articulate it.
You worldview seeks to answer the big questions:
 Who (or what) made me? (Creation vs. Evolution)
 Why am I here? (Purpose & Meaning to Life)
 Where am I going? (Life after Death)
Your worldview affects how you see everything:
 How you feel about yourself and others
 How you view other people
 How you view the family
 How you view child rearing
 How you view morals & ethics
 How you prioritize your life
 How you utilize your time, talent, & treasure
 How you think, make decisions, and live
“Personal integrity requires each of us to examine various worldviews and then adopt
the one that is most persuasive—that seems to answer life’s searching questions best in
the context of the physical world, human events, and each individual’s mind and heart”
(Understanding the Times, David A. Noebel, p.1)
II. The Necessity for Divine Revelation

If I am the product of a creator God, how do I know who that God is?
How do I come to personally know that God and have a relationship with Him?
A. The Definition of Revelation: Throughout history God has

made Himself known to man.
1. The term "revelation" simply describes God's communication to

man of truths which man did not know and could not discover for himself.
To reveal Himself to man, God used natural means (creation and

conscience) and supernatural means (words - Heb. 1:1).
2. The Biblical terminology
a. The Hebrew term "qalah" - to uncover, strip, remove

(Examples: Gen. 8:13; Num. 22:31)
b. The Greek term, "apokalypsis" - to take a covering or

veil from off of something (Mt. 11:27; Rev. 1:1)
The New Testament uses the word " Mystery" to describe

something that was previously unknown, which now has been
revealed (I Cor. 15:5; Eph. 1:9, 3:4 & 9, 5:32, 6:19; Col. 1:26, 27,
2:2).
Truth about God's plan for the Church age was hidden, but
now, like a treasure chest, has been opened up because God has
revealed Himself.
B. The Necessity for Revelation

In order for man to come to any understanding of God and His truth, God must
reveal Himself to man, for two reasons:
1. By nature (creation) man is unable to discover God.
a. Man cannot see God - Is. 45:15; I Tim. 6:15-16.
b. Man cannot know God - Is. 55:9; I Cor. 2:14

2. By the fall (sin of Adam) man is uninterested in discovering
God.
a. Because of sin, man now hides from God (Gen. 3:8)
b. Because of sin, man views spiritual things as

" foolishness" (I Cor. 2:14)
c. Because of sin, man is totally depraved--" dead to

spiritual things" (Eph. 2:1-5)
When man fell in the Garden, he broke fellowship and

contact with God. Man died spiritually (Gen. 2:17) and
now has a mind that: forgets God, tends toward error ,
is easily deceived , etc.
If God had not revealed Himself to us (via the Scriptures), we would all end up in
Hell!
Remember, only God can give a revelation or disclosure of truth (about His person,
will, and plan for the future). Man's job is not to invent truth, but to discover it and
interpret it.
C. The Two Types of Revelation:

*General Revelation (natural)
* Special Revelation (supernatural)
D. General Revelation (natural)

1. A Definition of General Revelation: God has revealed Himself
to all men in a general (basic) sense by natural means.
a. General revelation comes to man as man (special

revelation: man as sinner).
b. All general revelation was established before the fall.
c. General revelation comes through the natural order of

things (special revelation: God interrupts regular history).
d. General revelation comes to all rational men (All have

creation to look at; not all have a Bible).
2. The Channels of General Revelation:
a. Creation (The objective nature of the universe)

(Scripture: Ps. 19:1; Is. 40:12-14; Acts 14:15-17)
SEE: Rom. 1:18-21
What does creation reveal?
1) The visible creation shows the invisible creator.

a) "Eternal power" - His might points to God's

everlasting nature (His
"always ness"), which shows
God to be sufficient to create
the universe.
b) "Godhead" - His majesty: points to God's

divine nature (His Deity);
shows God to be worthy of
worship.
NOTE: from creation we do not know God, but we know

what He is like.
2) Creation shows man to be without excuse No

one will defend himself at the Judgment by saying,
"God, you didn't reveal yourself to me."
NOTE: General (natural) revelation via creation cannot

save, only condemn.
b. Conscience (the innate nature of man)
1) Man was created in the image of God

(Gen. 1:26-27); therefore, man has a personality
which is self -conscious and God-conscious (cp.
Prov. 20:27).
2) Man's conscience is marred because of sin

(It can be seared - I Tim. 4:2; and defiled - Tit.
1:15; and it needs to be purged - Heb. 9:14).
3. The Purpose of general revelation
a. While general revelation (creation and conscience) is not

enough to save a man, it prepares the way for special revelation (cp.
Ps. 19:1-6, cp. 19:7-14; Prov. 30:4; Acts 17:26-31).
b. General revelation is man's " Introduction to Theology."

General revelation should put a desire in the heart of man to learn
more about God.
c. General revelation is the foundation or basis upon which

special revelation builds (man could not comprehend special
revelation apart from general revelation).
NOTE: The Bible never proves God's existence; it assumes it and

asserts it. Creation is all the objective "proof" man will ever get. And it is
enough evidence to condemn him.
E. SPECIAL REVELATION (supernatural)

1. A Definition of special revelation:
God has revealed Himself to specific men at specific times by
supernatural means.
2. The Channels of special revelation (God's special [supernatural]

revelation was given in "divers manners," i.e. many different ways - Heb.
1:1)
a. Miracles - the mighty acts of God in history. When

God spoke by "event revelation," He always
had a messenger to interpret it with "word
revelation."
EXAMPLE: the Exodus - Ex. 5:1-2, cp. 7:4-5; Ps. 106:7-
9.
b. Theophanies - physical appearance of God to man.
1) Natural theophany (appearances in nature) –

Ex. 3 (burning bush)
Ex. 13:21-22 (pillar of cloud and fire)
2) Auditory theophany (God's voice could be heard)
- Ex. 19:1-3; Lk. 3:22.
3) Bodily theophany (The Angel [Messenger] of the
Lord) - a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ -
Gen. 16:10; Judges 2:1ff.
c. Urim & Thumim - two precious stones, used like lots,

to determine God's will for Israel -
Ex. 28:30; Num. 27:21; Dt. 33:8).
d. His Word
1) Direct words (Ex. 33:11)
2) Direct writing (Ex. 31:18)
3) Dreams (Dan. 7:1)
4) Visions (Ez. 1:1)
5) Jesus Christ - the incarnate Word
(Jn. 1:17; Heb. 1:1)
6) Scriptures - the written Word
(Ex. 17:14, 24:4, 7; Dt. 31:24; II Tim. 3:16)
3. The purposes of special revelation: that God's specific will

(desires) and ways (plan for the ages) might be understood by man.
a. God spoke that we might " know Him" (I Jn. 5:20).

b. God spoke that we might " Trust Him" (I Jn. 5:13).
c. God spoke that we might " Glorify Him" (II Cor. 1:20).
III. What Has God Revealed about the Origins of Life?

Question: Who should know more about the product, the consumer or the
manufacturer? Obviously the one who makes something should have more
knowledge about the thing made. The Christian’s Worldview holds that God is
the maker of all things. Therefore He has answers for the Creation He Produced.
In the early days of the automobile, a man’s Model-T Ford stalled in the middle of the road. He couldn’t get it
started no matter how hard he cranked nor how much he tried to advance the spark or adjust things under the
hood. Just then a chauffeured limousine pulled up behind him, and a wiry, energetic man stepped out from the
back seat and offered his assistance. After tinkering for a few moments, the stranger said, “Now try it!”
Immediately the engine leaped to life. The well-dressed individual then identified himself as Henry Ford. “I
designed and built these cars,” he said, “so I know what to do when something goes wrong.” God, as our
Creator, knows how to “fix” us when our lives are broken by sin. He knows all about us because He made us
and is in sovereign control of life. The One who made us knows more about us than we know about ourselves.
Therefore, it behooves us to see life through His perspective.
The Christian Worldview holds that there are realities that exist outside of the
perceptivity of the five senses. There is a non-visible Spirit realm that exists.
We would not know this reality apart from Divine Revelation.
For example, note ...
There exists a Demonic realm that wages war against people.
Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against
principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this
world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a

roaring lion, walketh about,seeking whom he may devour”
There exists an Angelic realm that helps God’s people.
Hebrews 1:13-14 – “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on
my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all
ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of
salvation?”
There is past History regarding origins of life recorded in Scripture
The word “Genesis” means: Beginnings. The Book of Genesis Records

for us the Beginnings of God’s Creation. It shows how Creation had it’s
origination.
Genesis 1:1 - *In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Genesis, a book inspired by God (II Tim. 3:16) and written through Moses, is the first book of the
Hebrew Torah (Law) and is titled by the first word in the book - “Bereshith.”
It is the first of five books called in Greek “The Pentateuch.”
The English Word “Genesis” is derived from the Greek Septuagint’s title for this book. In Hebrew,
its title “Bereshith” (from the first word) means origin or beginnings. So “Genesis” means
beginnings or origin.
This is an appropriate title since this book records the beginnings of the entire physical universe.
Genesis gives us an accurate understanding of how. . .

--the world began (an understanding which eludes the minds of the proud, humanistic, so-called
agnostics and atheists)
--mankind began
--the family began (through Adam and Eve)
--sin began (in the Garden of Eden)
--government began (through Noah - Gen. 9:6)
--the world’s nations began (through Shem, Ham, and Japheth)
--the Jewish nation began (through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob)
An understanding of Genesis is foundational to all theology and doctrinal understanding. The rest
of the Bible builds on the historical facts presented in this book.
It is also clear that the Lord Jesus Christ viewed the Genesis account of Creation as being
historically accurate and authoritative (Matthew 19:4,8; Mark 10:6; Cp. Mark 12:26). Therefore, to
reject the Genesis account is to reject the teaching and credibility of Christ.
The Apostle Paul (2 Cor. 11:3, 1 Tim. 2:13) and the Apostle Peter (2 Pet. 3:3-7) also viewed
Genesis as historically accurate and authoritative.
In Genesis 1:1 “It is no accident that God is the subject of the first sentence of the Bible.” (Derek
Kidner, Genesis, p. 43).
God is the focus of the entire Bible.
In Gen. 1:1, God does not prove Himself; He asserts Himself. He does not argue for His existence;
rather, He bolding states it.
This is instructive to us regarding our apologetic (defense of the faith). We don’t need to prove the
existence of God to anyone. God’s creation does a good enough job of that (Ps. 19:1; Rom. 1:20).
Verse one summarizes the whole chapter. God made everything.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

A. Genesis 1:1 teaches us that…
There is a POINT at which TIME BEGAN
B. Genesis 1:1 teaches us that…

God is AWESOME in His essence, power & wisdom
“The verb used for create (bara) is used in Scripture exclusively for the activity of God.
Humans may “make” (asa), “form” (yasar), or “build” (bana); to the Hebrew, however, God
creates.” (Allen P. Ross, Creation and Blessing, p. 106).
God created the world out of nothing

("Exnihilo" - i.e. without pre-existing materials)
“Created” - The Hebrew word "barah" (Gen. 1:1; 1:27; 2:3; 5:2) "refers to a sudden,
supernatural, bringing into existence of something that previously did not exist"
(John Whitcomb).
C. Genesis 1:1 teaches us that…

Life has DESIGN & PURPOSE
Creation reflects well-thought-out design; it’s too well-arranged to be a freak of nature or

happenstance.Since a personal God made the world and everything in it, life has meaning.
There is purpose to life. Life has a goal.
What a meaningless life this would be, if there was no intelligent, loving, powerful creator
(who planned and made it all).
The fool who says in his heart “there is no God,” really has no purpose in life and no
meaning to life (since in his mind life is an accident).
D. Genesis 1:1 teaches us that…

Creation did not CREATE ITSELF (Evolution is a lie)
The Theory of Evolution
a. The definition of evolution: The word "evolution" describes a process of

continuous change from a lower, simpler, or worse state to a higher, more
complex, or better state. (Webster's Dictionary)
The evolution of man involves a supposed "process by which, through some

sort of aggregation of matter though many ages and countless species, by
chance or by some undetected, impersonal law, man appears."
b. The hypothesis of evolution: The evolutionist believes that life evolved in

this way:
1) From nothing to something
2) From inorganic to organic
3) From plant life to animal life
4) From animal life to man
c. The flaws of evolution:
1) Evolution is actually unscientific.
True science is the discovery of facts (laws or principles) based on

the "collection of data through observation and experiment."
One species forming into another has never been observed (seen
by man), nor has it been produced in a lab.
Therefore, evolution is not fact, but faith. A blind faith based on

assumptions which cannot be proven.
Everyone believes in something. No one can endure the stress and

cares of life without faith in something that cannot ultimately be proven.
Atheists cannot prove there is no God.
Pantheists cannot prove that everything is God.
Pragmatists cannot prove that what will count for them in the future is
what works for them now.
Nor can agnostics prove that it is impossible to know one way or the
other.
Faith is unavoidable, even if we choose to believe only in ourselves.

What is to be decided is what evidence we think is pertinent, how we are
going to interpret that evidence, and who or what we are willing to
believe in (Luke 16:16).
Each of us has a choice. We can look at the evidence for God's
existence and believe that He is there, or we can set aside the evidence
and decide that there is no God. Either way, we must cross a bridge of
faith, because neither argument can present laboratory verification.
The Limitations Of Science
2) Evolution has no valid answer for the origination of matter.

What started the "Big Bang?" Where did the original substance from
which "life evolved" come from?
3) Evolution contradicts the first and second Laws of

Thermodynamics.
a) The first Law of Thermodynamics notes that in all real

processes, the total quantity of matter and/or energy stays
constant, even though it frequently changes form (EX: ice
to water, rock to sand, etc.). This law proves that nothing is
being either "created" or "evolved" by the present processes.
b) The second Law of Thermodynamics (one of the best-

proven laws of science) says that the whole universe is
running down into complete disorder. The universe is not
improving nor become more complex nor gaining higher
organization with time, but rather is deteriorating with time,
becoming less ordered, leading toward entropy (an inferior
change of energy and matter)
Ps 102:25-27
Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and
the heavens are the work of thy hands.
They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of
them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt
thou change them, and they shall be changed:
The second law states hat when energy is transformed from

one state to another, some of it is turned into heat energy
which cannot be converted back into useful forms. This
indicates hat the universe is deteriorating.
4) Evolution contradicts known biological facts.
a) Through "mutations" no new life form has ever evolved.

b) The chromosome count in plants and animals and humans
is totally distinct.
c) The distinct DNA in life forms prevents them from evolving
into a new species (like begets only like).
5) Evolution has no proof of intermediate species ("missing links")

The link or bridge between inorganic and organic, between plant life
and animal life, and between animal life and man has never been
scientifically proven. (EX: There is no valid link between man and
ape)
6) Evolution is statistically impossible.
The French Mathematician, Lecompte de Nouy, examined the

laws of probability for a single molecule of high dissymmetry to
be formed by the action of chance. De Nouy found that, on an
average, the time needed to form one such molecule of our
terrestrial globe would be about 10 to the 253 power billions of
years.
"But," continued de Nouy ironically, "let us admit that no matter
how small the chance it could happen, one molecule could be
created by such astronomical odds of chance. However, one
molecule is of no use. Hundreds of millions of identical ones are
necessary. Thus we either admit the miracle or doubt the
absolute truth of science." Quoted in; "Is Science Moving Toward
Belief in God?" Paul A. Fisher, The Wanderer, (Nov 7, 1985),
cited in Kingdoms In Conflict, C. Colson, p. 66
The statistical probability that the complex and ordered universe

would result from chance processes, ungoverned by a personal
intelligent, deliberate Designer, is virtually nil.
"The statistical probability of the ordered cosmos resulting from

spontaneous generation (evolution) is considerably less than the
probability that an explosion in a print shop would produce a
dictionary."
For the sun to be just far enough from the earth that it doesn’t burn
up and close enough that it doesn’t freeze up is too precise a
distance to be mere chance (or an accident).
7) Evolution contradicts common sense.
To believe it was by chance or by accident that a detailed, aesthetic

(beautiful), vast, and orderly universe came into existence is
irrational.
While that seems hard to believe, it makes great sense

when compared with the alternative. If indeed the worlds
were not made by God out of nothing, then the next-best
solution is that the worlds were made by no one out of
nothing. Compare the two ideas for reasonableness and
see which conclusion you come to.
It is absurd for the Evolutionist to complain that it is

unthinkable for an admittedly unthinkable God to make
everything out of nothing, and then pretend that it is more
thinkable that nothing should turn itself into anything.
--G.K. Chesterton in The Quotable Chesterton
Note: At the present rate at which the world's population is

increasing, if mankind has been in existence as long as the
evolutionists claim, the world would be over-filled with people.
8) Evolution contradicts the clear statement of Scripture about

origins.
a) Genesis 1-2 -
b) Matthew 19:4 -And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not
read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male
and female
c) Hebrews 11:3 -Through faith we understand that the worlds were
framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not
made of things which do appear.
d) Evolution contradicts the Biblical principle that plants and animals

only produce "after their kind" (Gen. 1:11, 12, 21, 24, 25). This
truth, though written thousands of years ago, is scientifically
validated today!
The motive of evolution
Evolution is Satanic:
Satan represents man as just another animal, sometimes better,
more often worse than those that walk on all-fours, who, because
of his "divine spiritual and intellectual development," has become
the most vicious animal of all!"
Anton Szandor LaVey, "The Satanic Bible", p. 25, 33
What caused man to think up such a theory?
Basic answer: Sinful man does not want to be accountable to a Creator

God.
Fallen man wants to make a way to leave God out of the origin of life, so
that he does not have to acknowledge the Creator's authority and glorify
Him. Evolution is so readily accepted simply because it gives man the
"luxury" of keeping the concept of God out of his life and conscience (Jn.
3:19-20 - And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world,
and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest
his deeds should be reproved).
See: Romans 1:18-32 -
1) The real reason for evolution - V. 18 - "Men hold (hold down,

suppress) the truth in unrighteousness."
2) The inexcusableness of evolution - V. 19-20 - Creation clearly points

to a Creator (and His power and authority).
3) The end result of evolution - V. 21-32
a) Empty lives and blind eyes (v. 21)

b) Pride and delusion (v. 22)
c) Idolatry (materialism) (v. 27)
d) Immorality (v. 24-32)
If there is no God, then there are:
(1) No absolutes
(No definite right and wrongs; Issues are not black & white; All things are
relative to situations and circumstances; No such thing as truth)
(2) No moral standards

(There would be nothing by which to measure rightness; Man can set his
own rules, and play the game of life any way he wants; Situation ethics
becomes the rule )
(3) No boundaries
(Nothing is off limits; nothing is sacred ground; No act is a transgression)
(4) No shame or embarrassment for sin

(If there are no definite rights & wrongs, there should be no feelings of
guilt, no matter what you do)
(5) No fear of judgment

(If there is no Creator God, man is accountable to no one; He can live
anyway he wants without the fear of consequences)
(6) No need of salvation

"It becomes clear now that the whole justification of Jesus' life
and death is predicated on the existence of Adam and the
forbidden fruit he and Eve ate. Without the original sin, who
needs to be redeemed? Without Adams fall into a life of
constant sin terminated by death, what purpose is there to
Christianity? None.”
G. Richard Bozarth, "The Meaning of Evolution", American
Atheist, 20 Sept. 1979, p. 30
E. Genesis 1:1 teaches us that…

Man is RESPONSIBLE to Glorify the Creator
Psalm 100:3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we
ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
If a Creator exists, these are some of the resultant consequences:
1) I am known by the Creator.
2) I am inferior to the superior Creator.
3) I am responsible to the Creator.
4) I will be judged (held accountable) by the Creator.
5) I should live for the glory and purpose of the Creator.
6) I am not the master of my life.
Therefore, I cannot live any way I please; I must do His will.
IV. What Has God Revealed About His Work in Creation?

Genesis 1:2-31
Many of the pagan nations of the ancient world had their own creation stories. But in
these stories, their gods evolved out of natural processes connected with the world itself. They
believed the material universe was eternal, and it brought their gods into being. But Genesis
declares that God existed before creation and is in full control of the physical universe. He
called the world into being by His word. His power is absolute. He does not have to conform to
nature and cannot be threatened by it. God is sovereign and does not have to share His power
with other supernatural beings.
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)
DAY OF CREATION GOD’S CREATION

Day 1 Heavens/Earth & Light/Darkness
Day 2 A Canopy Expanse in the Sky
Day 3 Dry Land & Seas; Vegetation
(Plants & Trees)
Day 4 Sun/Moon/Stars
Day 5 Sea Life (fish) & Birds
Day 6 Animals, Reptiles, Insects & MAN
Day 7 God Ceased (“Rested”)
*God made it all very good.
If God can effortlessly speak he world into existence…Is anything too difficult for him to do?
Is a soul ever so lost, that He cannot save?
Is a sin ever so strong, that He cannot deliver one from it?
Is a life ever so confused that He cannot bring order & direction to it?
Is a marriage ever so damaged that He cannot restore it?
Is a child ever so wayward that He cannot transform that life?
Is a ministry ever so small and weak, that He cannot build & strengthen it?
If God can create all things in 6 days, He can also do the miraculous
If God can create water, He can satisfy the thirsty soul
If God can create light, He can give light to those who grope in darkness.
(He can brighten your dark circumstances)
If God can provide fertility to the earth, He can put food on your table.
VI. What Has God Revealed About TRUTH

What is TRUTH and does it matter anymore? See: John 8:30-32
 Lack of truthfulness is a chief characteristic of these evil days in which we live.

 In the business world, the phrase, "You have my word on it" is meaningless.
 In the social world, fidelity between friends is hard to find.
 In the domestic world, faithfulness to marriage vows is a rarity.
 In the ecclesiastical world, "thousands who have solemnly covenanted to
preach the truth make no scruple to attack and deny it" (Pink, p. 52)
 It seems that just when you thought someone told you the truth, you realize it was a lie. When you
thought they were sincere, you find out it was just a cover-up. Where is truth to be found?
In a day in which lies prevailed Pilate asked Jesus Christ the question, What is truth? (John
18:38)
God’s Word has much to say on the topic of “truth.” The word occurs 342 times in the KJV
translation of the Holy Bible. (truth = 224; true = 77; truly = 41).
Definition of “Truth”: Truth describes that which conforms to fact or reality. Truth is fact and
reality. A “Truth” then is a fundamental law, statement, object, or event or action that matches
with ultimate reality. Truth describes actuality; realness; authenticity; & genuineness.
Related terms of truth:

“Faithful” – something or someone you can place full faith in; reliable; dependable. Worthy
of trust.
“Sincere” – Realness or genuineness in action, utterance, or character.
Opposite of Truth: Falsehood; lies, distortion or misrepresentation of facts.
Today we live in an anti-truth world.

The Apostle Paul spoke of people who where...“Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge
of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of
corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.” (2 Tim. 3:7-8)
Hosea 4:1
Hear the word of the Lord, ye children of Israel: for the Lord hath a controversy with the inhabitants of
the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land.
Is there a true way …

 For husbands & wives to relate to each other in marriage?
(Are there roles & responsibilities for the home?)
 Of rearing children? (“train up a child in the way he should go…” Which way is that?)
 To organize a church, evangelize, or make disciples?
(Who qualifies for church leadership?)
 What about sex? Are there defined boundaries as to when, where and with whom such activity is
to occur?
 To enter Heaven or Eternal Life? Is Jesus Christ really the only way? If so why?
Are we bigoted or chauvinistic to insist that there is one true Faith? Or to believe that
Christianity is superior to all other religions?
While we certainly believe and most of us would die for the right of everyone to have freedom of
choice as to which god they will follow or which faith they will believe, we believe and have the
God-given right to believe that Jesus Christ is the Truth and the only Savior of mankind.
1. Without Truth, anything goes (there are no rights & wrongs, no ethics & morals)
Pr 29:18 “Where there is no vision, the people perish” This means: “where there is no
revelation from God the people go unrestrained” Where there is no truth, the people go
off the deep end.
Note: America’s general rejection of God (He is no longer allowed in our public schools
or public life) has become the catalyst behind much of the chaos, confusion, disorders
we find today in family life, education, the legal system (court system etc.), etc.
 If there is no God (and we are a product of chance or evolutionary cause, as Darwinism)

 Then there is no Lawgiver to whom we are accountable.
 If there is no Lawgiver then there is no law or standard by which to measure right &
wrong.
 If there is no Law or standard by which to measure right & wrong, there is no absolute
truth.
 And if there is no absolute truth, there is no basis for morality.
 If there is no basis for morality, each individual can feel free to determine the “rules for
life” and man can be his own god.
The problem with this is this: If everyone can make his own rules for life, then when my
rules and your rules conflict, there is no structure to society to determine how to resolve
the issue.
Each will be out for what he wants at the expense of anyone else’s property or life.
There is no basis for common law, if there is no basis for truth. If God is “dead” or non-
existent then everything becomes permissible.
Interestingly enough, God said “lawlessness” would mark the last days, prior to Christ’s return.
And the Antichrist will be called the “lawless” one as he will embody the lawless spirit that will
engulf the world in the end times. (2 Th. 2:8 – “Wicked one” = anomos; lit. without law). The
stage is being set today for his arrival.
Our culture is committed to attaining it’s vision of radical liberation from all authority. Authorities
are viewed by many as the enemy of individual freedom. There is an underlying current today, to
do away with all authority structures. Whether it be authority in the home, church, or government.
Authority is a bad word today. It flies in the face of humanism (man being the measure of all
things) and relativism (anything goes). Therefore any Authority, such as a supreme God or The
Bible must be eradicated from society.
“Preachers are tolerated so long as they stick to therapeutic messages of enhanced self-esteem,
and resisted whenever they inject divine authority or universal, absolute truth claims in their
sermons.” (David Burggraff, p.7)
2. Without Truth, there is no way of knowing anything for sure

Proverbs 29:18 – “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy
is he.”
Absolute truth is the fundamental moral category in the universe. Without it people
perish. In Proverbs 29:18 – Solomon spoke of a need for a "vision.” This “vision” is
"revelatory vision" or truth from God). The point is this: Individuals, cultures and entire
civilizations unravel at the seams when they are subjected to a truth-deprivation. (Doug
McLachlan)
Beliefs directly affect morals. What you believe determines how you behave.
When you believe a Lie, you will live a lie and tell a lie. Those of false religions are
prone to telling lies because they are believing a lie. Lies beget lies. Satan is the father
of such lies (John 8:44).
The Lord Jesus Christ said in John 8:44,

“Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from
the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a
lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.”
 Truth is not determined by popular opinion. (There was a time when the majority of the
world believed that the earth was flat; they were wrong)
 Truth is not determined by the five senses. (Our sense of sight for example might
mistake a mirage for water) Truth is not apparent reality (what seems to be real), but
reality itself.
 Truth is not relative but absolute (It is often said “what is true to you may not be true to
me”; But we are not the measuring stick by which truth is determined);
It must be recognized that we live in a pluralistic society. “Pluralism is simply recognition that
different cultures believe different things. But pluralism is also the harmful ideology that heralds
the message that all truth is relative and all religious beliefs -- even those that flatly contradict
each other – deserve equal respect. Pluralism is best distilled in the popular mantra: “that may
be your truth, but it’s not my truth.” (David Burggraff)
There exist many enemies of those who hold to absolute truth. Though they believe in no
absolutes, they are absolutely sure that those who believe in absolutes are absolutely wrong for
doing so. Radical relativism is a direct challenge to the Christian Gospel.
Enemy # 1 to many people are those who hold to a “one way” to God belief system.
 Truth does not change with time. (As a Fundamental Law, what was true 2,000 years
ago remains true today)
 Truth does not change with culture or custom (What is true in Africa is true in America).
Lying is wrong in any culture; the same goes for stealing; committing adultery etc.
 Truth is not invented it is discovered (Man cannot create truth, he can only discover truth;
Man can discover truth whether that truth is locked away in something in the physical universe or
whether it is a law or principle that God uncovers for man to comprehend, as Christians believe
He has done for us in the Bible)
* In these days of lies and deception, we need to know what the TRUTH is.
A. Truth is embodied in God
All truth must be tested by a standard, and there is no standard beyond God. He is the
perfect and ultimate source and standard of truth.
--Truth is not invented by man.
--Truth does not evolve from society's mores (customs, traditions, or way of life).
God not only tells the truth, He is the truth. Truth is part of the essence of God.
1. God the Father is the truth.

Jn. 5:32
Jesus said of the Father: "He that sent me is true" (Jn. 7:28; 8:26.
Jesus came that we might know the "only true God" (Jn. 17:3; cp. I Jn. 5:20).
The Thessalonians turned from idols to serve the living and true God (I Thes. 1:9).
2. Jesus Christ is the truth.

EX: John 14:6 - "I am the way, the truth, and the life."
It is said of Jesus that He was "full of grace and truth" (Jn. 1:14); "grace and truth came by
Jesus Christ" (Jn. 1:17).
 Pilate didn't realize it, but when he stood before Jesus Christ, he was staring truth in the
face--yet he said, "What is truth" (Jn. 18:38).
 The Bible says that: "The truth is in Jesus" (Eph. 4:21).

 Jesus is so true, He is called "the Amen, the faithful and true witness" (Rev. 3:14).
 Jesus is called true - Rev. 19:11 - "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse;
and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge
and make war."
3. The Holy Spirit is the truth.

Jn. 14:17, 15:26 - He is called the "Spirit of truth."
Because the Holy Spirit is truth, He never guides anyone into error, but only in the truth (Jn.
16:13 - "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he
shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will
shew you things to come."
The Holy Spirit's job is to tell the truth about Christ - "It is the Spirit that beareth witness,
because the Spirit is truth" (I Jn. 5:6).
God's essence is truth - in contrast to false gods (idols which cannot think,
act, etc.).
Absolute truth corresponds to the Divine Nature of God. This nature of Truth has been
revealed to man in Christ (the living Word), and specifically though His Written Word.
B. Truth is knowable
“Absolute truth is marked by objectivity and know-ability. We are neither agnostics nor Athenians.
The Athenians, according to Luke, built an altar to "the unknown God" (Acts 17:22, 23). But the
God of truth is not unknown or unknowable, because He has revealed Himself to us. And this is a
revelation which is both objective – personified in Jesus (who has now gone to heaven) and
deposited in Scripture (which we hold in our hands) – and knowable – through the quickening and
illuminating influence of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-16) and the accurate exegesis of a text
(2 Timothy 2:15).” (Doug McLachlan)
In this postmodern day, truth is viewed as inaccessible. “As postmodern philosopher Richard
Rorty asserts, truth is made rather than found; all truth is socially constructed. That is, social
groups (such as Christians, for example) construct their own “truth” in order to serve their own
interests. Thus, the role of the intellectual is to “deconstruct” truth claims in order to liberate
society. (cited by David Burggraff)
God has revealed the truth (He has made it known and knowable)
Ask God t reveal His truth to you.
The Lord Jesus Christ said: John 17:17

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
Accept the Bible as God’s Word and you will know the truth
John 8:31-32 - Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word,
then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you
free.
John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
C. Truth is the basis for morality
Psalm 119:142
Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.
1 John 1:8
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
Why would truth be discarded? The answer is simply this: John 3:19 And this is the
condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light,
because their deeds were evil.
One reason why men do not believe the truth is because they love their sin.
II Thes. 2:12 - "That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in
unrighteousness."
Cp. II Tim. 3:7, 8 - "Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as
Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of
corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith."
People avoid truth to preserve their sin. Mankind’s basic self-centered nature will very often
ignore truth, deny truth, or even fight the truth in order to gain or maintain some pleasure or
selfish ambition.
The question lurking in most hearts today is not: “What is True?” but “What makes me feel good?”
The issue for most people in our society today is not: “What is right”, but “I want my rights.”
“The “feel good” religions are replacing the “negativity” of offensive biblical texts, and thus the
Bible is dispensed altogether.” (David Burggraff, p.6)
D. Truth is available to all
God has revealed some aspects of Himself via creation

(many suppress “hold down” that truth in unrighteousness; Romans 1:18-20
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of
men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; [19] Because that which may be known of God is
manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the
creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his
eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”
God has sent His Gospel throughout the world

Romans 10:18 - But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth,
and their words unto the ends of the world.
Psalm 100:5
For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and
his truth endureth to all generations.
John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
E. Truth is not for sale
Truth must be held to with tenacity. Truth is not for sale no matter how high the price!
“Solomon was right to say: "Buy the truth and sell it not" (Proverbs 23:23). We need a whole new
generation of believers who refuse to sell the truth, whomever the highest bidder may be.
Whatever kingdom, empire or salary, whatever name or fame may be offered, we are responsible
to affirm that truth is not for sale, and make certain that we hold tenaciously to it whatever the
cost may be.” (Doug McLachlan)
F. Truth must be proclaimed with conviction
All truth must be shared courageously and compassionately.

Today, is no day for wimps. If you hold to truth, then it is “over your dead body” that you move
from that truth.
2 Timothy 4:2-5 - Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort
with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch
thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
“Absolute truth matters profoundly to serious-minded, deeply-committed Christians. Such

Christians pay attention to the epistolary mandates – all those commands in the New Testament
epistles which require that we guard the gospel, hold fast the faithful word, continue steadfastly in
the apostles’ doctrine and contend earnestly for the "once-for-all" delivered faith. More than that,
serious-minded Christians are prepared to draw lines, set limits, erect boundaries and refuse
concessions based solely on obedience to biblical absolutes.” (Doug McLachlan)
When it comes to preaching God’s Word, we need to deliver a precise, unexaggerated,
unembellished reflection of the passage we are preaching. We don’t add or take away from what
God said and what He meant by what He said. The precept, principle or message we deliver
from God’s Word must follow the discipline of hermeneutical law and conform to the context of
the passage. Our preachment should be an accurate reflection of the grammar and syntax of the
passage we are proclaiming.
.
G. Truth shall set you Free!
See: John 8:30-32
“As he spake these words” – While Jesus taught about His equality with God the Father and
the Father’s authentication of His Son, many of the Jews believed in Him. They came to trust His
Person while they listened to His words.
This is exactly how “faith” comes into a person’s life – by their hearing the Word of God (Rom.
10:17). You cannot have faith in Christ apart from the Word of God. Faith and the Word cannot
be separated. To have faith apart from God’s Word is to have a faith without a solid foundation.
Therefore, whenever you witness, always give the Word of God.
At the very least these people made an outward profession of faith (Rienecker, citing Morris &
Schnackenburg in the Linguistic Key to the Greek New Testament).
There is a belief which is not a true saving faith (Acts 8:13-24; Ja. 2:19; 1 Cor. 15:2).
The “belief” was perhaps “nominally at any rate, as in John 2:23” (Robertson Word Pictures V, p.
148).
“Many believed. Yet before long they were picking up stones to cast at him (8:59). It is the old
story of pseudo faith” (The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, Peiffer & Harrison, Moody Press, p.
1091).
v. 31
Some might profess to be believers (or true disciples) but the real test is whether or not they
remain committed to the Word of Christ.
Jesus now singles out those whose faith has been ignited upon hearing His Words.
“Continue” = to remain or abide in the Word of Christ

The grand mark of a true disciple of Christ is continuity in His Gospel message.
A true disciple is one who holds on to the truth and never lets go. There is no apostasy for a true
disciple; there are no defectors from genuine Christianity; there is no true child of God who will
ever abandon his/her faith in the word of Christ.
“Then are ye” – Jesus uses His words carefully. He does not say “then will ye be.”
He is not saying that continuing in His Word will make you a disciple, but rather that continuing in
His Word reveals that you “are” a true disciple.
“My disciples indeed” – A disciple is one who has come under the spiritual teachings and
disciplines of His master (the word discipline and disciple are related terms).
The word “disciple” refers to one who has been trained in such a way that he mimics, imitates, or
copies the lessons and lifestyle of his teacher.
That is why the first-century Antiochian believers were called “Christians,” because others noticed
how much they resembled Christ (in their actions and reactions, in their attitudes and
motivations).
“Disciples indeed” – the word “indeed” means truly. It is the same word as the word “truth” in v.
32.
A disciple “indeed” refers to a true, bonefied, real or genuine disciple. The statement then does
not refer to a good disciple or a better disciple (as if some might assume that Jesus is implying
that one might be a disciple but not a good one, unless He continues in His Word).
Here, Jesus is referring to a real disciple (is a real Christian) as opposed to a false one.
Jesus is saying: “Your future loyalty to My teaching will prove the reality of your present
profession. . . continuance in the word (teaching) proves the sincerity or insincerity of the
profession. It is the acid test of life” (R.W.P. p. 149).
True Spiritual Freedom can be yours, if you go to the right place to get it!
“Ye shall know the truth” – Here, the term “truth” is linked to the term “word” in v. 31. It
is interesting that Christ, who is the living “word” (logos – Jn. 1:1, 14) and who is the living
“truth” (Jn. 14:6), is the one who gave us His written word which is written truth (Jn. 17:17
– “Thy word is truth”).
“Knowing the truth” is inseparably connected to continuing in Christ’s Word (v. 31).
Therefore, your relationship with God’s Word will determine your knowledge of the truth
which will in turn determine whether or not you are “free” from sin.
Question: How much time have you spent in God’s Word this week?
Truth is the engine or driving force of the Christian’s life.
Apart from the truth we dwell in the realm of lies, deceit, darkness, and death!
A good definition of truth: Truth (aletheian) is reality; it comes to us as reality that has
been revealed, unveiled, unsealed, or opened up. When God’s revelation opens up
before our eyes, we come to see and know reality. The fog and mist of Satan’s lies is
lifted and the reality of Jesus Christ and His will becomes clear to us.
He is the truth (Jn. 14:6) because He not only tells us reality, but He is reality. He is
really God. He is in fact God in visible form. He is the personification of everything that
is real.
“You will know” – future middle – meaning: you will come to know for yourself. You
will be personally enlightened or illuminated to the truth.
‘The truth shall make you free” –
***“the” truth -
Truth is exclusive (truth is not relative; ex. What is true for you may not
be true for me)
Truth is not optional, where you can pick any set of beliefs and turn out
okay
***”shall make you”
Truth is powerful
***”shall make you free” –
Truth is liberating
The word “free” means to be released from enslavements; to be unshackled from that
which held you captive.
“Free” – free from what?

Free from enslavement of sin (v. 34)
Free from the lies of Satan (v. 44-45)
“Freedom *intellectual, moral, spiritual) is only attainable when we are set free from
darkness, sin, ignorance, superstition and let the light of the world shine on us and in us”
(RWP, p. 149).
The precious theme of freedom from condemnation of the Law and from the enslavement
of sin is found in verses such as:
Romans 6:18
Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Romans 8:2
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin
and death.
2 Cor. 3:17
Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
Galatians 5:1
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not
entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
1 Peter 2:16
As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of
God.
Knowing the truth about . . .
 God sets you free from the lie and enslavement of idolatry
 Man sets you free from the lie and enslavement of humanism
 Creation sets you free from the lie and enslavement of evolution
 Salvation sets you free from the lie and enslavement of false
religion
 Love sets you free from the lie and enslavement of self-centeredness
 Marriage sets you free from the lie and enslavement of divorce and
adultery
 Church sets you free from the lie and enslavement of the cults
There is one main truth for all. The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
John 8:36 - If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Because God is truth. We must:
1. Love the truth -

Prov. 8:7 - "For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abonomination to my lips."
We are to "buy the truth and sell it not" (Prov. 23:23); we are to "love the truth" (Zech. 8:19).
2. Always tell the truth -

Eph. 4:15 - "Speak the truth in love."
God's truthfulness never ends (Ps. 11:5, 117:2); neither should ours.
3. Tell the truth, no matter what the cost -

EX: Peter's lying in his denial - Mt. 26:69-74. God hates lying - Zech. 8:16, 17.
4. Tell the truth, even when others do not want to hear it -

Gal. 4:16 - "Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?"
5. Tell the truth to your children -

Is. 38:19 - "The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall
make known thy truth."
6. Live your life according to the truth - Ps. 86:11

"I will walk in thy truth" -- II Jn. 4; III Jn. 4.
7. Keep your word -Do what you say you will do.
8. Be sincere (genuine, not a hypocrite)

Josh. 24:14 - "Now therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth."
I Sam. 12:24 - Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great
things He hath done for you."
Ps. 51:6 - "Behold thou desirest truth in the inward parts."
Jn. 4:24 - Worship in "spirit and in truth."
9. Every Bible believing church must uphold the truth.

We are the "pillar and ground of the truth" (I Tim. 3:15).
10. Come to the Truth – Jesus Christ

John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the
Father, but by me.
V. What is my Purpose on Earth? Why Am I here?

The Christian’s World-view as to the purpose of life, and of the reason for his
existence is three fold:
We are on earth. . .
1. To know God
2. To please God
3. To glorify God
We were made for God:
Proverbs 16:4 The LORD hath made all things for himself
Isaiah 43:21 This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.
Romans 11:36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for
ever. Amen.
Hebrews 2:10 ¶ For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things,
in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through
sufferings.
Colossians 1:16 For by him [Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that
are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or
principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
"For" - because - giving a reason why Christ is the preeminent "firstborn." (v.15)
Jesus is Creator:
John 1:3 - "All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was
made."
Eph. 3:9 - "And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the
beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ."
Heb. 1:2 - "Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir
of all things, by whom also he made the worlds."
Jesus created everything.

1) All beings and things "in heavens and in earth"
2) All that is material and immaterial
3) All laws, governing authorities and powers
"In Heaven" - Jesus created the angelic realm (the host of angels including Michael and
Gabriel; the cherubim and seraphim, etc.)
"In earth" - everything from the Swiss Alps to the Islands of Hawaii; every kind of plant, tree,
fruit, vegetable; every animal, fish, reptile and insect. And the crown of His creation -
mankind - was made by and for Jesus Christ.
No wonder the elements obeyed His voice; and the demons trembled in His presence and
respected Him. He is LORD of all, Creator of all!
It does not matter where it is (location); or what it is (essence); or how it is ("the powers that
be") -- Jesus made it all.
The powers that be are ordained of God (Rom. 13:1) particularly of Jesus Christ!
"By ("dia") Him and for ("eis") him" - Christ is the beginner and benefactor of
creation; He is its source and goal. He did it, and is to be glorified by it. He is Creation's
author and finisher. He is the architect and owner!
You were created by Jesus and for Jesus.
He made you for Himself; to glorify Him, to live for Him.
A. We are created and redeemed that we might KNOW God
1Jo 5:20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an
understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true,
even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the
fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
"That I may know Him" = means much more than knowing about Christ.
"To know" = to personally come to know through experience (an active knowledge)
As opposed to mere conceptual knowledge; to know in theory, to know in the brain.
I Cor. 13:12 - in Heaven we shall know Him even as we are also known.
Does He know you?? The most dreadful words any one could ever hear are the words:
"I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Mt. 7:23)
Tit 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being
abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. {reprobate: or, void
of judgment}
John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of
itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
“Abide” – the key verb in this context. The word “abide” means to remain or
dwell (as in Jn. 14:2 where the noun form has the meaning of an abode or
dwelling place).
The word means to stay with; to continue in close proximity (Mt. 26:38); to stay
put and not move (Mt. 10:11); or to dwell in something (as in a house) (Acts
16:15).
What Jesus is saying is this: Stay connected with Me (not in relationship, for that
issue is God’s doing and it is settled, but in fellowship).
In other words, Jesus is saying: “Stay close.” “Stick with Me; your abundant life
depends on it.”
Are we close to Jesus when we don’t:

Talk to Him?
Think about Him?
Love Him?
Obey Him?
“Abide in Me and I in you” – the connection is a mutual one.
“The symbolism of the Vine and branches is similar to that of the head and the
body: we have a living relationship to Christ and belong to Him” (Wiersbe, p.
355).
“Of itself, a branch is weak and useless. . . the branch cannot produce its own life;
it must draw that life from the vine. . . [We as believers must] recognize our own
weakness and confess our need for His strength” (Wiersbe, p. 355).
No branch can produce fruit if it is detached from the vine, and no Christian can
who is detached from the fellowship of Christ.
The Blessings of Staying Close to the Lord Jesus Christ
a. Remaining Close to Jesus makes Fruit-Bearing POSSIBLE (v.4-5)
b. Remaining Close to Jesus makes Fruit-Bearing INCREASE (v.2-3)
c. Remaining Close to Jesus Avoids the Risk of Being Rendered

USELESS (v.6)
d. Remaining Close to Jesus is the Secret to Receiving ANSWERS TO
PRAYER (v.7)
e. Remaining Close to Jesus Results in God being GLORIFIED by your
Fruitfulness (v.8a)
f. Remaining Close to Jesus Makes You a Real DISCIPLE (v.8b)
B. We are created and redeemed that we might PLEASE God
Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and
power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure [for Thy desire]
they are and were created.
God created all things for himself.
Romans 11:36
For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever.
Amen.
"The prayer of the upright is His delight" (Prov. 15:8)
"Pleasure" - will or desire"
God created man (and all of creation) to bring pleasure to Himself (We accomplish
his by fulfilling His will - I Th. 5:18)
Why please God? It’s not that there is some motion in God that needs to
be satisfied; but when we speak of pleasing God, we speak of fulfillment of
His will and desire.
All creation exists presently ("they are" - present tense) to fulfill God's desires.
Make this your goal!
If the heavens declare God's glory (Ps. 19:1), why shouldn't God's people?
Cp. Triumphal Entry (Lk. 19:37-40) - "The stones would immediately cry out"
Ps. 50:23 - "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me."

Heb. 13:15 - "The sacrifice of praise"
Due to our selfish sin nature, we are prone to live for pleasure rather than
to please God
1. Those who live for pleasure are self-centered

(all wrapped up in self)
Isaiah 47:8a Therefore hear now this, thou that art given to pleasures, that dwellest
carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me;
“Mark it down: There are only two cookies on the shelf – pleasing God or pleasing self.”
Must choose one.
2. Those who live for pleasure will not bear fruit

Luke 8:14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go
forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to
perfection.
3. Those who live for pleasure will not love God

2 Timothy 3:4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
4. Those who live for pleasure make pleasure their master and
themselves its servants
Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving
divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
5. Those who live for sin’s pleasures will do so only for a short season
Hebrews 11:25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy
the pleasures of sin for a season;
Examples of pleasure seekers?
Those who live for selfish pleasure have lives that are …
 too Cluttered (jam-packed) to spend time with God in prayer & the Word
 too preoccupied (busy & therefore tired) to expend energy serving God in
a ministry
 too lazy to be faithful to all regular church services
Are you a pleasure Seeker?

 You will not gain pleasure by seeking pleasure
 True pleasure is the by-product (result) of bringing God pleasure
John 13:17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
God is not against us receiving pleasure; rather, He desires that we

obtain true pleasure in His time and in His way.
True pleasure is from God:

Job 36:11 If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity,
and their years in pleasures.
Psalms 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy;
at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Live for the “Well Done”

Matthew 25:21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant:
thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:
enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Be a God-pleaser, not a people-pleaser:
Galatians 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I
yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel,
even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
What Pleases God?
The Work of His Son: Jesus Christ:

Isaiah 53:10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou
shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days,
and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand
Isaiah 53:11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his
knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
1. God is pleased by our adoption as children
Psalms 149:4 For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.
Ephesians 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will,
2. God is pleased by our deep, reverential respect for Him

Psalms 147:11 The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
3. God is pleased by our spiritual understanding of His plan

Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure
which he hath purposed in himself:
4. God is pleased by the uprightness of heart

1 Chronicles 29:17 I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness.
As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I
seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.
5. God is pleased by the public proclamation of His Gospel

(preaching pleases God)
He is pleased to save men by preaching.
1 Corinthians 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased
God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
6. God is pleased by obedience to parental authority

Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
7. God is pleased by a practice which matches with our position

Colossians 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good
work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
8. God is pleased by our obedience to His Word

1 John 3:22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and
do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
9. God is pleased by every church member fulfilling his/her role in the

Body
1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath
pleased him.
10. God is pleased by our sacrificial giving

Hebrews 13:16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well
pleased.
Our life should be about “Proving what is acceptable (well-pleasing) unto the Lord”
Ask yourself a Question:

Is God pleased with my conduct,
attitudes,
speech,
dress,
entertainment/amusements, music, TV,
my relationships,
my present service for Him?
C. We are created and redeemed that we might GLORIFY God
What is the Believer’s overall guiding principle for determining how he/she
should live?
1Co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do

all to the glory of God.
The Ultimate Question is:

Will it GLORIFY GOD?
“The glory of God" - We ought to do everything so that God would shine;

that He would be magnified; that His principles, precepts, and program
would be credited, praised, and honored.
What does it mean to glorify God?

Does He shine (in the minds of men) as a result of my attitudes or actions.
Mt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
You were created to glorify God.

You were saved to glorify God.
The degree to which we glorify God reflects the degree to which we fulfill
God’s purpose for our lives.
* The overruling principle that should guide our attitudes and

actions must be: “Do all to the Glory of God”
1. The Principle of Glorifying God governs the Christian

Liberty areas of our life
(“Whether therefore…”)
Note the previous context of areas of liberty that believers are conscientious
about for the sake of weaker brothers.
2. The Principle of Glorifying God governs the Mundane (Everyday)

areas of our life (“eat or drink..”)
3. The Principle of Glorifying God governs Each Individual area

of our life (“Whatsoever ye do…”)
"Whatsoever" - Includes every activity we do; every place we go;

everything we partake of.
"Do all" - Nothing excluded; there ought not to be a distinction between the
secular and the sacred for the Christian, for "all ground is holy ground."
--Does my attitude toward my children or spouse today glorify God?

--Are my thoughts glorifying God?
--Will this decision glorify God?
--Will this purchase glorify God?
--Is my language glorifying God?
--Are my actions glorifying God?
Should any area of our lives be "off limits" to God?
If not, then we should not mind if He has front row seats to every activity we
do!
4. The Principle of Glorifying God governs Every area of our life

(“Do All to the glory of God”)
When making choices, which choices would bring the most glory to God?
God is glorified when we make . . .

--The right choice (a decision based on righteousness as revealed in
Scripture)
--The unselfish choice (a decision based on how others, not merely self
would be benefited)
--The difficult choice ((difficult due to the effort required; difficult due to
the low popularity of the choice)
Is God glorified by divorce?
Is God glorified by mistreating your spouse or children?
Is God glorified by dishonesty?
Is God glorified by laziness?
Is God glorified by His people viewing wickedness? (on TV, pornography,
etc.)
Is God glorified by gossip?
Is God glorified by poor performance on the job?
A question which should be continually popping up in our minds throughout

every minute of every day is the question, "Does this glorify God?"
To glorify God, you must have a right view of self and a right view of God.
You must have…
1) Humility – To humbly acknowledge Him as the giver of life, talents,

opportunities, and blessings.
The proud do not glorify God. We cannot glorify self and God at
the same time.
2) Dependency – In the power of the flesh, no one glorifies God. It is

only as He evidently (in an obvious way) works in us and through
us that He receives glory.
Such dependency involves trust; a moment-by-moment walk of
faith. Phil. 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ…”
--Who do you give the credit to for the successes of your life?
--How do you handle applause?
--Where do we want the spotlight to shine?
--Where do we want the credit to go?
Herod Agrippa was judged because in the moment of opportunity when

he should have denied the people’s acclaim of deity to him, he did not.
“He gave not God the glory.”
[NOTE: If the greatest thing we can do is glorify God, then the greatest sin
is to steal His glory for ourselves]
Note: Acts 12:20-24-Acts 12:20-24
How can we glorify God?
1. Praising Him
"Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me" (Ps. 50:23)
2. Calling upon Him

When trouble comes, God delivers us (when we call upon Him) so that we
would glorify Him (Ps. 50:15 - "And call upon me in the day of trouble: I
will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."
3. Shining for Him

By letting our light shine and doing good works, God will be glorified.
Will others have a better view of God by the picture they see of His working
in our lives? (Mt. 5:16 - "Let your light so shine before men, that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.").
VII. The Christian’s Perspective of the WORLD

What is the believer’s viewpoint of the world? What perspective does God want us to
have?
A. We are to be good stewards of the World (The physical Earth)
Genesis 1:28 - And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the
earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every
living thing that moveth upon the earth.
“Dominion over” - rule over; control over; stewardship over; man was to govern
the elements and species of the world.
This dominion expresses God’s desire and design that people be regarded as
superior to the rest of the animal world and it explains why people have a natural
tendency toward fishing, hunting, taming animals, utilizing domesticated animals
for man’s benefit, etc.
God owns the Earth and everything on it:

Psalms 24:1 - The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
1 Corinthians 10:26 - For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.
Since God is Creator, we should:
--Not worship God’s creation (but the Creator - cp. Rom. 1:25)
--Respect God’s creation

(Don’t abuse the earth - be a good steward; God’s people should never
intentionally harm creation nor it’s creatures (Pr.12:10); Littering, wastefulness,
marring and polluting God’s creation is a sin.)
--Glorify God for His creation

--His power (which created and constructed it so vast and yet so detailed)
--His wisdom (which planned it so well; it is ordered, balanced, and purposeful)
--His authority (which rules over it)
A steward does not own that which he takes care of, he

simply manages it for his Master; Let’s manage well.
Psalm 8:4-9 - 4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:
All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and
whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all
the earth!
B. We are in the world but are not of the world (We don’t belong to the world nor
will we permanently remain here)
 John 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I
have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
 John 17:14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world,
even as I am not of the world.
 John 17:16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
John 15:18-19
“The world” – kosmos – people devoid of God’s Spirit (Jn. 14:17) who are part of a
Satanic arrangement, who think and act in a manner which is opposite that of God’s
standard.
--Their minds are blinded by the “god” (Satan) of this world” (2 Cor. 4:4).
--Their philosophy is that of humanism (man being the measure of all things) (Col. 2:8)
--Their wisdom is considered by God as foolishness (1 Cor. 3:19)
--Their actions are dictated by demonic spirits and are characterized by disobedience (Eph. 2:2) and self-
centered lust of the flesh and of the mind (Eph. 2:3)
--They have been injected (as it were) with a Satanic anesthetic and passively lie helpless in the lap of the
wicked one (1 John 5:19)
For the comfort that it’s worth, the persecuted believer can take encouragement in
knowing that he/she is not the first to be wrongly attacked.
“It hated Me before it hated you” – the world’s ultimate object of attack is not the
Christian, but the Christ of Christians. This prior hatred of Christ is as old as sin. Satan’s
ultimate attack is made against the Lord Jesus.
“It hated Me” – Perfect, active indicative verb – “has hated and still hates” (Robertson, p.
261).
The precious Lord Jesus has been a target of attack throughout history.
--His holy Name is blasphemed as people use the name “Jesus Christ” as a curse word
when angry or upset. His name is constantly uttered in vain.
Why is He the object of ridicule, rejection, and slander? Because He is the “way, the
truth, and the life,” and Satan knows it and demons know it. “We know who You are [they
said], the Holy One of God.” Therefore, Satan’s ultimate attack is against the Lord Jesus
Christ and anything connected to Him.
v. 19
“If ye were of the world” – if you belonged to the world; if you were on the same side or
same team as the world, you would be loved by the world.
“I have chosen you out of the world” – out of the millions of people in the world, Jesus
Christ has selected a remnant by grace to belong to Himself.
Believers have been “called out” from the world; therefore, the world “church” (eklesia)
literally means “the called out ones.”
When someone believes in Christ, they are “translated out of the kingdom of this world
into the kingdom of His dear Son."” There is immediately a change of lifestyle, love, and
lordship. This change of allegiance, this change of sides is what makes you a target of
attack. “All who live Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”
“Therefore the world hateth you” – the world knows that a born-again Christian is “not
one of us” anymore. In most cases, they will leave you like the plague;
C. We are not to be conformed to the world (not pressed into it’s mold)
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that
ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
"Be not conformed" - stop allowing yourselves to be put into a mold or form
(present, passive imperative).
Evidently, some of the Roman Christians were being influenced by the pagan
Roman society, hence the present imperative calls for a stopping of a lifestyle
already in progress.
"Conformed" - cookie cutter or mold
"This world" - lit. this "age" (aion) in contrast to the coming one.
This age is called an "evil age." (I Cor. 2:6, 8; Gal. 1:4)
Beware of the New Age Movement.
Is your thinking like this age?
If all of our calculations, plans, ambitions, decisions, etc., are determined by what
falls within life here, then we are thinking like children of this age.
God is calling on us to not allow ourselves to be cloned into the spiritual and moral
characteristics of the times in which we live.
Whether you realize it or not, the world (instigated by spiritual wickedness &
demonic forces) is specifically trying to mold (structure) your mind (your way of
thinking) - via the media (TV, radio, movies, magazines, books, etc.)
Don't be deceived into thinking that you have to match the world's fashions,
thinking, planning, speaking, etc.
We are not to be like the world - READ Eph. 4:17-19
Love not the world (Cosmos) - I John 2:15-17
Being salt and light (Mt. 5:13-16), we are to be distinct from the world.
Don't be like a chameleon, which takes its color from its surroundings.
Believers must learn to swim against the tide (drift) of this age.
We must be willing to cut across the grain of this contemporary world-view. Even if
it means standing alone.
D. We are to love the people of the world.
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not
perish, but have everlasting life.
Mark 6:34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them,
because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.
Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Love others the way the good Samaritan loved his neighbor (Luke 10:33–f)
Love people enough to share the Gospel with them (Mark 16:15-16)
Love people enough to do good unto them (Gal.6:10)
E. We are not to love the world’s system (arrangement and philosophies which
are contrary to God’s ways)
1 John 2:15-16
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father
is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is
not of the Father, but is of the world.
“Love not” - (me agapate) - Make a decision to stop your allegiance to and dedication
to this old cosmos.
The New Testament uses two primary words translated “world.”

1. Aion - this world’s present time. The present age (with its degenerate
moral characteristics) as opposed to God’s future kingdom.
2. Kosmos - This world’s present program. The Satanic inspired,
humanistic system that is alienated from and in opposition to God.
Kosmos - used 79 times in John and 23 times in I John.
What “Love not the world” does not mean:

1. John is not saying that we should despise the planet (globe) upon which
we live (that which God created was called good; we should not worship the
creation, however.).
2. John is not saying that we shouldn’t love people (mankind) (God loves
the world in this sense and so should we - John 3:16).
“World” - Cosmos (cp. Cosmetics) - speaks of an adornment or an arrangement of

things.
The “world” of which he speaks is not of the world order as God originally established, but
of the world order which has been twisted and perverted by sin and Satan.
The word “world” refers to the world’s organized system (in its lust for material
possessions and personal status) as headed by Satan (“the god of this world”. . . “the
prince of the power of the air”); a system which ignores God, glorifies the temporal, and
opposes God’s righteous ways.
The “world” is simply that system of man which has God left out (the worst thing about
TV and movies is that they depict life without God as normal).
When John speaks of not loving the world, he is referring to a world order and mindset
that is at enmity with god, lost in sin, wholly at odds with anything divine.
Worldliness is a “radical individualism” that displays a kindly attitude toward Satan’s evil
world system and manifests itself in self-centeredness, self-advancement, and autonomy
(Jon Trainer citing Chuck Colson).
“Neither the things that are in the world” - speaks of a materialistic mindset.
All believers must use the things in this world, but when we love them in place of God
(when they become the center of our attention), we abuse their use (I Cor. 7:31 - “And
they that use this world, as not abusing it, for the fashion of this world passeth away”).
God promises to meet our needs for certain “things” when we seek first the kingdom of
God (Mt. 6:33).
We ought to seek the “things” which are above (Col. 3:1-2 - “If ye then be risen with
Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth”).
In the 1990’s America had approximately 40,000 missionaries on the foreign field (over half were
over 60 years old!). America had approximately 40,000 students in “Bible colleges” and less than
400 would go to the foreign mission field. The greatest major in Bible colleges and universities
today (sad to say) is Business not Bible! (Ron Brooks, Baptist World Mission).
What is the reason for such worldly priorities? They learned it at home.
Many times we are worldly and don’t even realize it.

--We adopt worldly standards
--We adopt worldly views of husband and wife roles
--we adopt worldly views on child discipline
--We adopt worldly views on dating and marriage
--We adopt worldly views on church growth
--We adopt worldly views on handling problems
--We adopt worldly views on planning our future
Why should believers not love the world?

1. Worldliness is INCONSISTENT for anyone who is saved
(v.12-14) Love for the world’s system & things is unfitting for someone who knows God and His
Word)
2. Worldliness is DANGEROUS to your closeness to God (v.15)
(Love for the world’s system & things forfeits your capacity to love God as you should)
3. Worldliness is a VANITY that does not have it’s origin in God (v.16)
(Love for the world’s system & things stems from a worldly (satanic) deception)
A. The lust of the flesh - The world’s vain pleasure
B. The lust of the eyes - The world’s vain possessions
C. The pride of life - The world’s vain prestige
4. Worldliness is FOOLISH because of the transient (temporary) nature of the
world (v.17)
(Love for the world’s system & things is unwise because the world and it’s things are here today and
gone tomorrow)
F. We are to use the things of the world but not worship them or love them
1 Corinthians 7:31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth
away.
When you "use" the things of this world, do you seek to fully use them to the utmost,
to the point that they absorb all your time, thought, and energy?
We ought to use the resources God gave this world, but we must never become
obsessed (engrossed) with material things so that we abuse them.
*How much are your distracted by the STUFF of this life?
EX: Being in India and seeing poor Christians who --because of their poverty--
were not as distracted in serving Christ as we are in America.
--Drive your car; don't worship your car

--Wear your clothes; don't worship your clothes
--Comb your hair; don't worship your hair (I Pet. 3)
--Mow your lawn; don't worship your lawn
--Clean your house; don't worship your house
This kosmos in its present form ("fashion") is going to pass away!
The Lord (through Peter) addressed the transiency of this world in II Peter 3:10-13).
Our affection must be set on things above (Col. 3:1-2 - "If ye then be risen with
Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of
God. Set your affection on things above, not on things of the earth.")
Question: What does it mean to be Worldly and how can I overcome the temptation
to be Worldly?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my appearance and dress (attire)?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my amusements?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my priorities?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my music?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my ethics & morals?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my treatment of others?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my money management?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my speech and mannerisms?
How does worldliness reflect itself in my view of material “things”?
VIII. Practical Principles Resulting from a Christian World-

View
The true Christian World-view is based preeminently upon the teachings of the Bible.
The Bible has much to say regarding the practical ramifications of being a regenerated,
born-again Christian.
What does a true Christian, who sees life from God’s perspective think like and act like.
What are the resultant effects of seeing life through God’s eyes (as revealed in Sacred
Scripture)? This question alone would demand a course in itself. We will look at a few
of the practical results of a Christian World-view.
A. A Christian’s life is not his own; He/she belongs to God

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which
ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore
glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
B. What one Believes will directly affect How one lives

(In other words, what you do, reflects what you believe)
James 2:18
Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy
works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
James 2:20
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
C. God’s Truth is worth defending in the world

Jude 1:3
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was
needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the
faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
D. The Christian, asks not, what can the world do for me, but what can I do for
the world (We exist for the hope and help of others, and ultimately for God and
His purposes and plan)
Philippians 2:4
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
E. The Christian lives for the eternal, not the temporal

2 Corinthians 4:18
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for
the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Matthew 6:20
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt,
and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Colossians 3:1
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on
the right hand of God.
F. Life on earth has purpose and meaning because of God

John 4:34
Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his
work.
John 6:38
For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.
We, like Christ, are on this earth for the purpose of knowing God’s will and doing it
(the result of this will bring pleasure and glory to God and contentment and happiness
to ourselves)
G. The Christian is to have a lifestyle that is uniquely different than the world
Matthew 5:13-14
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be
salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot
of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Deuteronomy 14:2
For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to
be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.
Titus 2:14
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify
unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of
darkness into his marvellous light:
1. The Christian has a unique lifestyle in his/her family relationships
a. In a Christian home, husbands love their wives and lead their

families
Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and
gave himself for it;
b. In a Christian home, wives honor their husbands and allow

them to provide for the families need for finances, safety,
direction, and Biblical instruction.
Ephesians 5:22-24
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For
the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the
church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is
subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every
thing.
c. In a Christian home, parents love their children, discipline

them, and train them, and children obey and honor their
parents
Ephesians 6:1-4
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy
father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That
it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye
fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the
nurture and admonition of the Lord.
2. The Christian has a unique lifestyle in his/her ethics & morals
Truth (righteousness) and moral purity (holiness)
Ephesians 4:24
And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and
true holiness.
3. The Christian has a unique lifestyle in his/her standards for conduct

and appearance
1 Peter 3:3-5
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of
wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the
heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet
spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old
time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in
subjection unto their own husbands:
4. The Christian has a unique lifestyle in his/her recreational and

entertainment choices
Psalms 101:3
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn
aside; it shall not cleave to me.
This principle applies to what one allows to enter via his eye gate or ear
gate. (T.V. Internet and Music are issues to be considered here)
Psalms 40:3
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall
see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.
H. God works in and through the believer in the world
Philippians 2:12-13
Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now
much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is
God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
I. God is the giver and taker of Life on Earth
Therefore, The Christian believes in respecting other people (James 3:9-10)and

their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. (Galatians 5:13)
1 Peter 2:17
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
Taking the life of others, is not the right of the individual, but is the prerogative of God.
(Note: God has ordained Government, to exert force so as to provide for a peaceful
society; Capitol punishment (by the Government) does have Divine Approval – Genesis
9:6; Romans 13; Government in such cases functions as the arm or tool of God)
IX. A Comparison and Contrast of the Major Religious

World Views
A. ISLAM
1. Islam’s Origin
"Islam" = An ancient Arabic word meaning "manliness" (heroic and brave

in battle); later the meaning was altered to mean "submission" (Robert
Morey, The Islamic Invasion, p. 36-37).
Muslim belief: Islam came down from Heaven via God’s Revelation to
Muhammad.
Historical evidence: Islam stems from pre-Islamic tribal Arabian culture.
Muhammad was born in A.D. 570 in Mecca to Abdullah (Abd-Allah) and

Aminah. He was born into the Quraysh tribe, which was in control of the
city of Mecca and which acted as the custodian of the Kabah and of the
religious worship centered about it (Morey, p. 69).
At age 40 Muhammad claimed that Allah called him to be a "prophet" and

an "apostle."
The source of Muhammad's revelations: epileptic seizures or demonic

possession?
"Early Muslim tradition records the fact that when Muhammad was about
to receive a revelation from Allah, he would often fall down on the ground;
his body would begin to jerk; his eyes would roll backward; and he would
perspire profusely." (Morey, p. 71).
Muhammad himself, suffering from deep depression, initially worried

about the possibility that he was demon-possessed. He attempted
suicide, but his wife prevented him (Morey, p. 72).
"Allah" - from the pre-Muhammad Arabic word - Al = "the"; Ilah = "god."

Although ignorant Muslims would deny this, the Arabic moon god was
called "Allah" (note: the crescent moon symbol associated with the
Muslim mosques and flag).
To appease pagan mobs in Mecca (Sura 53:19), Muhammad wrote the

famous "Satanic Verses," which stated that it was perfectly proper to pray
to and worship the three daughters of Allah: Al-Lot, Al-Uzza, and Manat
(after Muhammad's death, the "Satanic Verses" were not included in the
text of the Koran) (Morey, p. 79).
"The cult of the moon god which worshipped Allah was transformed by
Muhammad into a monotheistic faith" (Morey, p. 62).
"Muhammad took the Arab culture around him, with all its secular and
sacred customs, and made it into the religion of Islam" (Morey, p. 22).
Aspects of the Arabian culture

--The Sabeans - An astral religion which worshipped the Heavenly

bodies.
The moon = male deity

The sun = female deity
Together, they produced the stars.
Religious rites and fastings are regulated by the phases of the

moon.
--A Bloody Culture

(vengeance and violence justified)
(Morey, p. 37, 39)
--Tribal Loyalty
(It was wrong to kill a member of your kin-group or allied
group; all other cases were justifiable; in many cases, it was a
sacred duty)
--The Kabah in Mecca

("Kabah" = Arabic for cube, a square stone temple in
Mecca was a focal place for worshipping idols from all over the
world. (Morey, p. 40-41)
"Islam is a 'deification' of seventh-century Arabian culture" (Morey, p. 20) -

- A mixing of seventh-century Arab culture and religion raised to a status
of divine law.
In Islamic countries (which do not have freedom of religion), any criticism

of the Koran or Muhammad is considered a criminal offense punishable
by death by Islamic law.
Islam cannot handle negative criticism of its religion without striking out in
militant retaliation (any religious group which must rely on militant
retaliation [bloodshed] to sustain itself gives evidence by this response
that the don't have confidence in the ability of the truth which they teach
to defend itself).
2. Islam’s Source of Authority (Book or Teachings)
Muslims believe that God (Allah) has revealed himself through the
Prophets of old (such as Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, and Finally
Muhammad) The Bible is given credence, but the full and final revelation
of God is in the Quran.
To the Muslim, the Quran, is the final authority for faith and life. The
Quran is viewed as “the culmination of what was only begun in the Bible.”
(The Spirit of Truth and the Spirit of Error (2) – A Comparative Pamphlet
Compiled by Steven Cory, Moody Press)
Muhammad did not write the final manuscript of the Quran. When
Muhammad fell into one of his unpredictable trances, his revelations were
written (by others usually) on bones, leaves, stones, or whatever was
available (much of this was collected after his death) (The Concise
Encyclopedia of Islam)
The Quran consists of a jumbled and confused ordering of 114 individual

Suras (revelations)
The Quran supposedly built upon the Words God gave in the Old and
New Testaments, but a careful reading of the Quran will prove that the
Quran contradicts and errs from the Bible on many points.
 Creation took 8 days (Surah 41:9,10,12) (2+4+2 days)

 One of Noah's sons refused to go into the Ark & drowned (Surah 11:32-48)
 Abraham offered up Ishmael in sacrifice (Surah 37:100-112)
 In the Koran the order is not Abraham, Isaac & Jacob but Abraham, Ismael,
and Isaac, & Jacob. (Surah 4:163)
 Pharaoh's wife adopted Moses (Surah 28:8,9) [Bible says it was his
daughter - Exod.2:5)
 The virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus under a palm tree (Surah 19:22) [Bible:
a stable, Luke 2]
 Contradiction: "At first Muhammad told his followers to face Jerusalem in
prayer. Then he told them since God was everywhere they could face any
say the wanted. Then he changed his mind yet again and directed them to
pray toward Mecca (Surah 2:115 & 2:144)" Morey p.146.
 Jesus did not die and rise again. However, in their own book, Jesus said
that he would die and arise from the dead (Surah 19:33).
 Muslims know that Jesus Christ was holy, was to be obeyed (Surah 43:63),
and did many miracles (Surah 5:110)
The Quran is viewed as “the code of life for mankind” (The Quran,
Translation into English, by Abdullah Yusuf Ali, Tahrike Tarsile Quran,
Inc., Elmhurst, NY)
3. Islam’s View of God
Muslims believe in the existence of only one God (named “Allah” which
means “the God”). Monotheism.
“O People of the Book! Come to common terms as between us and you:

that we worship none but Allah; that we associate no partners with Him;
that we do not erect, from among ourselves, lords and patrons other than
Allah.” (Surah 3:64)
They reject the notion of the Trinity or that God has a “Son”
“They (Christians) say: (Allah) Most Gracious has begotten a son!”

Indeed you have put forth a thing most monstrous!...For it is not
consonant with the majesty of (Allah) Most Gracious that He should beget
a son.” (Surah 19: 88,89,92)
The primary attribute of Allah is Justice. Therefore, Allah is viewed as a

God who must punish wicked people and show mercy to those who do
good works as prescribed by the Quran.
4. Islam’s View of People and the Universe
“Muslims see the universe as created by the deliberate act of a personal,

omnipresent God…Man is considered a sort of vice-regent in charge of
creation under the authority of God. His purpose—and the goal of
Islam—is to make a moral order in the world. Man is endowed with taqwa,
a sort of divine spark manifested in his conscience that enables him to
perceive the truth and to act on it. Conscience is thus of the greatest
value in Islam…Man may cultivate his taqwa and so live according to the
way of Allah, or he may suppress it. Man thus deserves or is undeserving
of God’s guidance.” (Steven Cory)
Men are superior over women

--Men receive twice the inheritance
--A men's evidence carries twice the weight of a woman's in court
--A woman is forced to submit by being beaten (Sura 4:34)
“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has
given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support
them from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly
obedient, and guard in (the husband's) absence what Allah would have
them guard. As to those women on whose part ye fear disloyalty and ill-
conduct, admonish them (first), (next), refuse to share their beds, (and last)
beat them (lightly); but if they return to obedience, seek not against them
means (of annoyance): For Allah is Most High, Great (above you all).”
(Surah 4:34)
Although Surah 2:256 teaches that “there is no compulsion in religion”

(meaning there should not be forceful conversions to Islam but allow for
religious freedom and tolerance); the Quran itself contradicts this teaching
with statements which justify the killing of infidels and the destruction of
Jews and Christians.”
Surah 9:3-5: “And an announcement from Allah and His Apostle, to the
people (assembled) on the day of the Great Pilgrimage, --that Allah and
His Apostle dissolve (treaty) obligations with the Pagans. If, then, ye
repent, it were best for you; but if ye turn away, know ye that ye cannot
frustrate Allah. And proclaim a grievous penalty to those who reject Faith.
(But the treaties are) not dissolved with those Pagans with whom ye have
entered into alliance and who have not subsequently failed you in aught,
nor aided any one against you. So fulfill your engagements with them to
the end of their term: For Allah loveth the righteous. But when the
forbidden months are past, then fight and slay the Pagans wherever ye
find them, and seize them, beleaguer them, and lie in wait for them in
every stratagem (of war); but if they repent, and establish regular prayers
and practice regular charity, then open the way for them: For Allah is Oft-
Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
Surah 9:12-14 – “But if they violate their oaths after their covenant, and
taunt you for your Faith, --fight ye the chiefs of Unfaith: For their oaths are
nothing to them: That thus they may be restrained. Will ye not fight
people who violated their oaths, plotted to expel the Apostle, and took the
aggressive by being the first (to assault) you? Do ye fear them? Nay, it is
Allah Whom ye should more justly fear, if ye believe! Fight them, and
Allah will punish them by your hands, cover them with shame, help you
(to victory) over them, heal the breasts of Believers, And still the
indignation of their hearts. For Allah will turn (in mercy) to whom He will;
and Allah is All-Knowing, All-wise.”
Surah 9:29,36 – “Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day,
nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His
Apostle, nor acknowledge the Religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the
People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and
feel themselves subdued…. fight the Pagans all together as they fight you
all together.”
5. Islam’s View of Morals and Ethics
“Islam presents a “straight path” of clear-cut duties and commands.

Islamic morals are a combination of genuine acts of love and justice on
the one hand and legalistic performances on the other.” (Cory)
 Islam emphasizes externals (clothing, diet, ritual)
o --Long desert clothes and veils (for modesty in women)
o --Must pray five times per day toward Mecca
 Coercion and enforced compliance to Allah’s way of life.
 Seeks to transform culture into seventh century Arabia
 Dictates every area of life (no liberty on any issue)
 No separation of mosque and state
 Promotes dictatorships (under a sheik [chief] with despotic rule and no
civil and personal rights (no freedom of religion, assembly, or press)
6. Islam’s View of Salvation and the Afterlife
Muslim’s reject the notion of a Savior dieing to pay sin’s penalty and
reject the N.T. teaching of salvation by grace through faith.
“Salvation depends on a man’s actions and attitudes. However, tauba

(“repentance” can quickly turn an evil man toward the virtue that will save
him. So Islam does not hold out the possibility of salvation through the
work of God but invites man to accept God’s guidance. The final day of
reckoning is described in awesome terms. On that last day every man
will account for what he has done, and his eternal existence will be
determined on that basis.” (Cory)
“Every man’s fate We have fastened on his own neck: on the Day of
Judgment We shall bring out for him a scroll, which he will see spread
open. (It will be said to him:) “Read Your (own) record: sufficient is your
soul this day to make out an account against you.” (Surah 17:13-14)
Heaven is a place of pleasure with plenty of wine and women (Suras 2:25;
4:57; 11:23; 47:15), and Hell is a place of fire and torment (47:15b).
7. Islam’s View of Worship
In Islam “Muhammad is not worshipped; only God is. Because of the

strict rules against depictions of human forms in art there is a strong
impetus against idolatry or saint-worshipping in Islam. Allah is extolled in
hymns that depict his power and majesty. But even Allah cannot be
ultimately leaned on for salvation, because salvation is man’s
responsibility…Acts of worship is Islam are embodied in the “five pillars”:
A Muslim must (1) recite the basic creed, “There is no God but Allah, and
Muhammad is His Prophet”; (2) recite prayers in praise of Allah five times
daily while facing Mecca: (3) give money to the poor; (4) fast for one
month a year; and (5) make a pilgrimage at least once during his lifetime
to Mecca, the city where Allah revealed the Koran to Muhammad.” (Cory)
8. Islam’s World-View (in Summary)
 The world must be conquered for Allah (Any enemy of Islam must be
subdued into submission) in order to have a God-honoring society.
 There is no salvation outside of Islam.
 The means of salvation is obedience to the Laws of Allah.
 There can be no assurance of salvation, until the judgment day.
 All of life must be structured around the principles and precepts of the
Quran
 Those who “reject faith” may claim to want to make peace on earth, but
really want to make mischief (Surah 2:11-12)
B. Hinduism
1. Hinduism’s Origin
“Hinduism” – The name comes from a Sanskrit term meaning “dwellers by

the Indus River” (India’s earliest known civilization)
The oldest of World Religions (outside of Judaism) dating back more than
3,000 years.
“During the fourth century B.C. Aryans –- the same people that developed
Greek culture—conquered much of present-day India. Their pantheon of
gods, similar to that of the Greeks, combined with indigenous Indian
traditions of meditation to form a loose combination of beliefs and
practices that came to be known as Hinduism” (Steven Cory)
Hinduism has no single:

Founder (Hinduism is passed on by tradition)
Holy Book
Doctrine (very diverse in belief and practice)
90% of the World’s Hindus live in India (or are from Indian descent)
2. Hinduism’s Source of Authority (Book or Teachings)
Hinduism has no one Holy Book (as does Christianity, Judaism, and
Islam) but is a Religion passed on by Tradition with several different
stories (Holy Books), and several different Gurus who carry the message
(Mahatma Gandi, being the most influential 20th century figure, whose
mission was to end British colonialism in India).
3. Hinduism’s View of God
Hinduism is a religion which worships many different “gods” all of which

are generally viewed as aspects or manifestations of the one absolute,
supreme and unknowable god called “Brahman”.
“Brahman is seen by many Hindus as a personal, loving God who desires

the salvation of all men. More usually, however, he is described as a
supreme, impersonal being completely above all creation and uninvolved
with life on earth.” (Cory)
Hinduism’s ultimate “god” – Brahman is manifested or expressed by other

deities, the most popular being: Vishnu, Shiva, and Shakti.
1. Vishnu – The protector and preserver of the world incarnates
himself many times through history in order to bring the message of
salvation to man.
Vishnu’s incarnations include:
a. Rama, a benevolent king.
b. Krishna, an impetuous, violent, and erotic
figure.
c. Other Deities
2. Shiva – “A fierce figure representing both the creative and

destructive sides of divinity as well as the ideal of yogic
meditation” (Cory) Shiva, a Sanskrit word meaning “auspicious
one,” is a more remote god than Vishnu. Shiva is a more difficult
god to understand than is Vishnu. He is regarded as both
destroyer and restorer.
3. Shakti – The mother goddess. Like Shiva, she can be either

beneficial or fierce, depending on her form. As Parvati she is
depicted as a beautiful woman in the middle age. As Kali she is a
giantess with black skin, a blood-red tongue, and large tusks. Kali
carries an assortment of weapons and wears a garland of human
skulls around her neck. The mother goddess thus stands for all
aspects of nature from birth to death.
4. Hinduism’s View of People and the Universe
“The material universe is not the creation of a personal God but is rather
a sort of unconscious emanation from the divine.” (Cory)
As such it is:
1) Beginningless: and some would say endless;

2) Unreal: an illusion because the only true reality is Brahman.
3) Recylical: the universe “pulsates” in a huge series of repeated
cycles
“Each human soul is also beginningless and has gone through a series of
reincarnations. Hinduism “solves” the problem of the existence of
suffering and evil in a fairly neat manner: all present suffering, it says, is
exactly deserved, being the paying back of one’s “karma,” the
accumulation of deeds done in the past lives; and all present evil will be
exactly repaid in the form of suffering in future lives.” (Cory)
This constant recycling of souls due to one’s “karma” and deeds is the
reason for different life forms on earth. To many Hindus, other life forms
are to be regarded because they are “souls” as humans are but housed in
a different body due to the sins or graces of their ancestors. The “holy
Cow” is revered as one such reincarnation.
It is believed that some Hindus - due to their lineage and geneology -

reached higher levels of spirituality. This view resulted in what is known
as the “caste” system. In its most ancient period, Indian society was
divided into four classes (castes):
1. Priests (or Brahmins)
2. Warriors
3. Merchants
4. Servants
These classes, or castes, have since been subdivided into thousands of
sub-castes, ranging from the Brahmins at the top to the Untouchables at
the bottom. These groups have traditionally been hereditary and have
married only among themselves.
5. Hinduism’s View of Morals and Ethics

Morals and ethics are very important to Hindus because what you do in
this life determines whether or not you reach union with Brahman. If you
fail to reach this highest of goals, you can at least, by your good deeds be
reincarnated as a higher life form in the next life.
6. Hinduism’s View of Salvation and the Afterlife
“The final goal of salvation in Hinduism is escape from the endless round
of birth, death, and rebirth. That can mean an eternal resting place for
the individual personality in the arms of a loving, personal God, but it
usually means the dissolving of all personality into the unimaginable
abyss of Brahman.” (Steven Cory)
“In Hinduism, union is sought between the Universal Soul
(Brahman) and the individual soul (Atman) to bring about a oneness just
as a raindrop becomes one with the ocean.” (New Dictionary of Theology,
Intervarsity Press, Edited by Sinclair B. Ferguson, David F. Wright and J.I. Packer, p. 112)
Four Yogas, or ways of reaching such salvation, are described:

1. Jnana Yoga, the way of knowledge, employs philiosophy and the mind
to comprehend the unreal nature of the universe;
2. Bhakti Yoga, the way of devotion or love, reaches salvation through
ecstatic worship of a divine being;
3. Karma Yoga, the way of action, strives toward salvation by performing
works without regard for personal gain; and
4. Raja Yoga, “the royal road,” makes use of meditative yoga techniques.
Raja yoga is usually viewed as the highest way, but for the majority of
people, who cannot become wandering monks, the other ways are
considered valid.
Four tenets of Hinduism:

1. Monism - All is one
2. Pantheism - All is God
3. Maya - All is illusion
4. Reincarnation - All is recycling (to reach karma)
Most Hindus consider that they have many incarnations ahead of them before
they can find final salvation, although some sects believe that a gracious divinity
will carry them along the way more quickly.” (Cory)
7. Hinduism’s View of Worship
“Hindus have a magical and legalistic notion that one can acquire spiritual
“points” through contact with all manner of holy objects and persons; that
is by and large the Hindu notion of grace. At least among the uneducated
an image of a family god is kept in the house, and villages generally have
their local icon as well. Animals such as cows, monkeys, and snakes are
revered. Certain rivers—the Ganges in particular—are thought holy, and
bathing in them is thought to improve one’s karma.
Even among more intellectual Hindus certain portions of scriptures are

memorized and chanted, sacred stories are acted out in plays and songs,
and gods are prayed to in an ecstatic manner. Holy men are highly
revered, and in serving them Hindus hope that some of their holiness will
rub off and aid them to salvation.” (Cory)
8. Hinduism’s World-View (in Summary)
 Inclusive of other religions (rather than exclusive) [for example many

Hindus worship Jesus and view Him as a “god” along with all of their
other gods.
 Very Superstitious (assuming that contact with holy things, places, or

people helps one earn divine “points” so as to aid one to reach Brahman.)
 The lifestyles of people generally reflect the characteristics of the “gods”

they worship.
 A Hindu’s view toward the future is generally bleak, with no assurance of

reaching union with Brahman.
 The uniqueness of each individual soul is a non-factor, because all

people are viewed as a recycled form of another person or animal.
 The law of “sowing and reaping” is the Hindu’s salvation. Salvation is

achieved by the accumulation of “good works” over time.
 Hinduism offers a confused counterfeit of the true God and of His only
manifestation – Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:15)
 Hinduism has many offshoot philosophies and religious ideas such as

the “New Age Movement”
 According to the Bible, behind every false “god” or idol is a demon (1 Cor.
10:20), who perhaps performed a miracle or a series of amazing
wonders to gain people’s attention and a following toward that particular
Hindu “god” (compare Rev.16:14).
C. BUDDHISM
1. Buddhism’s Origin
Siddhartha Gautama was born a prince in India during the 6th century BC.
His father shrouded Siddhartha in comfort, preventing him from seeing
human suffering. When Siddhartha grew to manhood, he saw diseased
and elderly people, as well as corpses. After encountering a monk, he
realized that life is full of pain. Disillusioned, he vowed to seek ultimate
truth, forsook his luxuries, and became a wandering monk. He practiced
austerity to achieve enlightenment. He learned, however, that neither
present severity nor previous pleasures could give him inner peace. He
decided to travel what is known in Buddhism as the Middle Way – a life
devoid of both self-affliction and physical indulgence. While meditating
under the bodhi-tree, he attained enlightenment and became a Buddha,
or “Enlightened One” (New Dictionary of Theology, Intervarsity Press,
Edited by Sinclair B. Ferguson, David F. Wright and J.I. Packer, p. 112)
2. Buddhism’s Source of Authority (Book or Teachings)
Buddhism does not have a single source of authority or book but has
several different schools of Buddhist philosophy stemming from the
religion’s founder, Siddhartha Gautama.
“The Buddha did not claim divinity or even a divine source for his
teachings. He saw himself as only an example to fellow monks and
compared his teachings to a raft that should be left behind once the other
side o f the river has been reached.” (Steven Cory)
“Buddhism became a great missionary religion and eventually all but died
in its native India.” (Cory)
 The Mahayana school, which calls itself “the Great Vehicle” has many
adherents who revere the Buddha almost as a “god” and is to be
found in China, Korea, and Japan;
 The Therevada school, which holds more strictly to the letter of the
doctrine of “the elders” views the Buddha as merely a great teacher
and flourishes in Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Burma, and southeast Asia.
 The Amida Buddhists follow the teachings of Shinran, the founder of
Jodo-shinshu, and believe that faith in Amida Buddha’s compassion
will secure them a place in paradise.
 Zen Buddhism emphasizes spiritual techniques (like meditation) as
being more important than simple faith.
3. Buddhism’s View of God
“There is no absolute God in Buddhism, although many have interpreted

Buddhism as a search for God. The Buddha did not deny the existence
of God outright but said that the question of His existence “tends not to
edification.” That is, those seeking enlightenment need to concentrate on
their own spiritual paths themselves rather than relying on an outside
support…Many Buddhists believe the existence of suffering and evil in
the world is evidence against belief in God” (Steven Cory)
4. Buddhism’s View of People and the Universe
In Buddhism there is no creator “god” and no sovereign one who is

holding the universe together. Both the beginning and the ultimate nature
of the world are left unexplained by the Buddha because those questions
are not helpful to consider (Steven Cory)
The universe and all creatures, including man are illusions which really do
not exist. In Buddhism there is “really no “self,” only a series of
occurrences that appear to be individual persons and things. All of what
we perceive to be reality is really a phantom.
5. Buddhism’s View of Morals and Ethics
Although Buddhism has no “God” and therefore no ultimate lawgiver, the

religion does have several tenants of “truth”
1) Life is full of sorrow. Every person is born, becomes old, and dies.
Suffering marks an endless cycle of lives. Therefore, reincarnation is a
curse.
2) The origin of suffering is ignorance. People are ignorant of who

they are and what life is. From ignorance proceeds desire for immaterial
and material things.
3) A Person can break this cycle of rebirths by realizing that the

essence of all things, including the soul, is emptiness. The great doctrine
of Buddhism is anatta, “no soul”…In Buddhism, there is no soul. Rather,
a consciousness is reborn and needs to be extinquished just as a candle
flame is blown out. This consciousness is not a soul but it is the causal
result of ignorance, and it is extinguished when one realizes the
emptiness of its existence.
4) The path which leads to the cessation of suffering. This has eight
steps:
Right views,
Right aspirations,
Right speech,
Right conduct,
Right mode of living (i.e. free from luxury),
Right effort,
Right awareness,
Right concentration.
By walking the eightfold path, a person will eventually (after many

successive reincarnations) receive enlightenment. Though the Buddhist
doctrine of extinction may seem nihilistic to Christians, living a pure life to
end a cycle of lives full of suffering is understood to be idealistic rather
than fatalistic. (New Dictionary of Theology, Intervarsity Press, Edited by
Sinclair B. Ferguson, David F. Wright and J.I. Packer, p. 112)
6. Buddhism’s View of Salvation and the Afterlife
By following the right path of good works over successive reincarnated

lives one can through concentration (meditation) come to the point of
“enlightenment” (as the Buddha did). When you finally reach this point of
seeing that there is really “no self” and therefore no pursuit of selfish gain,
you achieve Western Paradise (a state of Bliss) in this life and “Nirvana”
(or extinction or annihilation) upon death, thus ending the repeated cycle
of suffering on earth.
“Nirvana literally means “blowing out,” as with the flame of a candle. That
is, nothing can be said about it except that it is a transcendent, permanent
state.” (Cory)
7. Buddhism’s View of Worship

In Buddhism there is no god to worship.
“In most cases what looks like worship before a statue or image is really a
sort of paying respects. The Buddha is revered as an example of a
saintly life and as the one who broght the teachings of Buddhism;
Buddhists are taught that they must themselves overcome the obstacle of
ignorance.” (Cory)
Meditation is Buddhism (with it’s focus on breathing technique) is a way to

clear one’s mind and to empty oneself from a craving for things and to rid
the mind of any sense of “self” thus leading to “enlightenment” and the
abolishment of ignorance.
8. Buddhism’s World-View (in Summary)
 Buddhism denies the existence of God.
 Buddhism denies the existence of the Human Soul.
 Buddhism believes in the cycle of reincarnation and repeated lives

of suffering that must be ended. The cessation of life is salvation.
 Buddhists do not have an optimistic view of life or death.
o Life on earth is all that there is; and even this is an illusion.
o There is no purpose to life, because there is no ultimate

designer.
o “Salvation” is viewed as escape from conscious existence.
 Buddhism has no satisfactory answers to life’s big questions:

Who am I? Who made me? And Why am I here?
D. JUDAISM
1. Judaism’s Origin
Judaism is a term used to generally describe the religious beliefs and practices of
the Jews. Judaism technically had its origin with God’s call of Abram (later
renamed “Abraham” meaning “father of many nations” born in 2,165 B.C.). He was
to grow up in a wealthy, populated, and sophisticated pagan city - called Ur of the
Chaldeans (220 miles south of Baghdad in southern Mesopotamia). He was to
become the father of the Jewish nation, an example of faith to all people, and was
called “a friend of God”. Abraham’s genealogy is traced in Genesis 11:10-32
establishing his lineage back to Shem.
“Ur of the Chaldees” -

Abraham's native city in southern Mesopotamia; an important metropolis of the ancient world
situated on the Euphrates River. Strategically situated about halfway between the head of the Persian Gulf and
Baghdad, in present-day Iraq, Ur was the capital of Sumer for two centuries until the Elamites captured the
city. The city came to be known as "Ur of the Chaldees" after the Chaldeans entered southern Babylonia after
1000 B. C.
Abraham lived in the city of Ur <Gen. 11:28,31> at the height of its splendor. The city was a
prosperous center of religion and industry. Thousands of recovered clay documents attest to thriving business
activity. Excavations of the royal cemetery, from about 2900 to 2500 B. C., have revealed a surprisingly
advanced culture, particularly in the arts and crafts. Uncovered were beautiful jewelry and art treasures,
including headwear, personal jewelry, and exquisite china and crystal.
The Babylonians worshiped many gods, but the moon god Sin was supreme. Accordingly, the city of
Ur was a kind of theocracy centered in the moon deity. Ur-Nammu, the founder of the strong Third Dynasty of
Ur (around 2070-1960 B. C.), built the famous ZIGGURATS, a system of terraced platforms on which temples
were erected. The Tower of BABEL <Gen. 11:3-4> was a seven-story ziggurat made of brick. It is a miracle of
God's providence that Abraham resisted Ur's polluted atmosphere and set out on a journey of faith to Canaan
that would bless all mankind.
Ur's glory was suddenly destroyed about 1900 B. C. Foreigners stormed down from the surrounding
hills and captured the reigning king, reducing the city to ruins. So complete was the destruction that the city
was buried in oblivion until it was excavated centuries later by archaeologists.
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) (Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)
In Genesis 12:1-3 God made three faithful promises to Abraham
A. God promised Abraham a LAND (v.1)
This call to move out came to Abraham while in Ur of the Chaldees (Acts
7:2); Abraham obeyed the call; however, when he moved, his family
moved out with him. They went as far as Haran (11:31-32). God’s
intention was for Abraham and Sarah to leave all family because God
was to begin a new race of people just with Abraham. The Jewish race
was about to be born.
God is here calling upon Abraham to leave: 1) “country” 2) “kindred”

(extended family) and even 3) “thy father’s house” (immediate family)
God took a man out of a pagan culture and out of an idolatrous family
(Josh. 24:2) and would use him to make a new beginning. Abram would
depart from Ur in the year 2,090 BC As a 75-year old man.
B. God promised Abraham a SEED (v.2)

God promises Abraham fertility, fortune, and fame.
“I will make of thee a great nation” – At this time Sarah was barren
(11:30). She could have no child until she would give birth to Isaac at the
age of 90; Abraham would be 100.
C. God promised Abraham a BLESSING (v.3)
“I will bless them that bless thee” – This promise was to Abraham
immediately, but also would apply to his people (the Jewish Nation)
Abraham passed this promise of blessing down to his son Isaac and it
went on from Isaac to Jacob (Gen. 27:29) and it still applies into the future.
“In thee shall all families of the earth be blessed” – Every nation on
earth would be blessed by the Jewish nation. How?
It is through the Hebrew people that we received . . .
1) The Bible (“the oracles of God”) (Rom. 3:1-2 - What advantage then hath
the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly,
because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. )
2) The Messiah (Rom. 9:4-5 - Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and
the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the
promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who
is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
2. Judaism’s Source of Authority (Book or Teachings)
The original source of authority was the written Tanakh.
The Tanakh, Judaism’s Bible, begins with the Pentateuch - the first 5 books
given by God via Moses after the Exodus from Egypt after 1445 B.C. The
Tanakh includes all of the books of the Christian Old Testament but is divided up
in a different book order [22 in all; corresponding to the 22 letters of the Hebrew
alphabet]
The Tanakh was primarily written in Hebrew (A few sections in Aramaic)

It is divided up in three major sections:

 The Torah (the Instruction; the first 5 books)
 The NEBHIIM (the Prophets)
 The KETHUBIIM (the Writings or Poetry)
Note: The word “Tanakh” is an acronym based on the initial Hebrew letters of the
Torah, Nebhiim, and Kethubiim.
After the Babylonian Captivity the Tanakh was called the Mikra or Miqra,
meaning "that which is read." The word Mikra referred to the written Tanakh that
was read out loud and is analogous to the Latin term Scriptus - a term related to
our English word - Scripture.
Perhaps one of the biggest problems of Judaism was the Legalism and Oral
Traditions that crept into the Religion and basically ended up with the effect of
nullifying the sole authority of the Tanakh (Mikra). These additional authorities
are a major reason for the fractions that exist within Judaism and for the
departure of many from a clear understanding of the written Tanakh.
Jesus Christ made these comments about the additional written and oral
traditions added by the Rabbis:
Matthew 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the
commandment of God by your tradition?
Mark 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the
washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mark 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye
may keep your own tradition.
Mark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have
delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Jewish Tradition (called “Masorah”) is reflected in the following books:
a. Mishnah (Hebrew ‫משנה‬, "repetition"), redacted around 200 CE by

Yehudah Ha-Nasi (‫ הנ י יהודה‬/ "Judah the Prince"), is the first written recording
of the oral law of the Jewish people, as championed by the Pharisees, and as
debated between 70-200 CE by the group of rabbinic sages known as the
Tannaim.
b. Talmud (Hebrew: ‫ )תלמוד‬is a record of rabbinic discussions pertaining to

Jewish law, ethics, customs and history.
c. Midrash (Hebrew: ‫ ;מדרש‬plural Midrashim) is a Hebrew word referring to

a method of exegesis of a Biblical text. The term "midrash" also can refer to a
compilation of Midrashic teachings, in the form of legal, exegetical or homiletical
commentaries on the Tanakh (Jewish Bible).
d. Kabbalah (Hebrew: ‫ ) לה‬literally means "receiving", It is a core and

identifying spiritual text of Hassidic Judaism. According to its adherents, intimate
understanding and mastery of the Kabbalah brings man spiritually closer to God
and as a result man can be empowered with higher insight into the inner-
workings of God’s creation effectively enabling prophecy and even control over
nature. Kabbalistic “secretive – mystical” knowledge was known to and

transmitted orally by the Jewish patriarchs, prophets, and sages (particularly, the
Sanhedrin). (Wikipedia.org)
3. Judaism’s View of God
Judaism is a monotheistic religion, believing in only one true, omniscient,

omnipotent, sovereign and living God who alone created and to this day sustains
the universe. The key text of Judaism is found in Deuteronomy 6:4 and is called
the Shema (meaning to “hear”). “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD” -
Deuteronomy 6:4
Judaism rejects the concept of the trinity and holds that God’s proper name is
YHWH (Yahweh or Jehovah).
4. Judaism’s View of People and the Universe
Man was created in the image and likeness of God and thereby has a moral
nature. Due to the fall, man is prone toward wickedness but has an ability to
make ethical choices. Heavy emphasis is placed on laws relating to the right
choices.
Many within Judaism view those of the seed of Abraham (via Isaac) to have a
superior standing with God by contrast to the rest of the human race.
Jesus Christ stated to the Jews of His day: “Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of
repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I
say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.” (Luke
3:8)
According to traditional Jewish Law, someone is considered to be a Jew if he or

she was born of a Jewish mother or converted in accord with Jewish Law.
(Wikipedia.org)
“History is the arena of God’s purposeful activity, and Jews often look for signs of
His approval or judgment in historical events.” (Stephen Cory, The Spirit of Truth
and the Spirit of Error, vol.2 World Religions)
5. Judaism’s View of Morals and Ethics
“Torah (“to point the way, give direction”), often translated “law,” refers in
Judaism to a total pattern of behavior, applicable to all aspects of communal and
individual life. It is to be found not only in the Old Testament Scriptures but also
in a wide variety of oral traditions, rituals, ceremonies, stories, and commentaries
on Scripture. Jews have often tried to develop rules of behavior to cover each
situation encountered in their various cultures. Thus a gigantic literature coving
codes of conduct has arisen. From time to time movements have emerged that
have tried to cut through those rules and get back to the original meaning of
Torah, but legalism has been a perennial problem of Judaism.” (Cory)
Judaism values Marriage, Children, the Family, Justice and Community.
6. Judaism’s View of Salvation and the Afterlife
“One’s eternal existence in the hereafter is determined by moral behavior and

attitudes. Although there is no Christian notion of saving grace in Judaism, it is
taught that God always offers even the most evil men the possibility of
repentance (Teshuva, “turning”). After such repentance one can atone for one’s
rebellion against God’s ways by positive action…Jews still hope for the coming of
the Messiah (Jesus is not viewed as the Messiah), who will hand out eternal
judgment and reward to all.” (Cory)
Judaism is similar to Islam in three major respects:

o God is not a triune being (there is no “Trinity”)
o Jesus is not God and is not Savior
o Salvation is based on personal works or individual merit.
As Paul wrote, “For they (Jews) being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about
to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the
righteousness of God.” (Romans 10:3)
7. Judaism’s View of Worship
In most of Judaism, formal, repetitious prayers and benedictions are very

important. Ritual and ceremony are commonplace in Judaism. Among the more
strict sects of Judaism unique clothing, head coverings, and hair styles can be
seen as distinctives.
Dietary laws or “keeping kosher” are also important to being right with God.
Since the Jewish Temple was destroyed by Rome in 70 A.D. and with it the
abolishment of the animal sacrificial system, the Synagogue is the typical
meeting place for corporate worship.
Jewish observation of Holy Days are vital to one’s spiritual life. These “holy
days” are:
a. The Sabbath Rest (“Shabbat”), the weekly day of rest lasting from shortly
before sundown on Friday night to shortly after sundown Saturday night,
commemorates God's day of rest upon the completion of creation. During
Shabbat, Jews are forbidden to engage in any activity that falls under 39
categories of work. For example, writing, carrying items in public, and lighting
fires are considered to be work. Driving is traditionally forbidden (as burning fuel
comes under the prohibition of lighting a fire), so many Jews walk to synagogue
to participate in Shabbat services.
b. Three pilgrim festivals (see Levitucus 23)
* Passover (Pesach) is a week-long holiday beginning on the evening

of the 14th day of Nisan (the first month in the Hebrew calendar), that
commemorates the Exodus from Egypt, and coincides with the barley
harvest. It is the only holiday that centers on home-service, the Seder.
Leavened products are removed from the house prior to the holiday, and
are not consumed during the holiday.
* Shavuot ("Pentecost" or "Feast of Weeks") celebrates the
anniversary of the revelation of the Torah to the Israelites on Mount Sinai,
and marks the transition from the barley harvest to the wheat harvest.
* Sukkot ("Tabernacles" or "The Festival of Booths") commemorates
the wandering of the Children of Israel through the desert. It is celebrated
through the construction of temporary booths called Sukkahs that
represent the temporary shelters of the Children of Israel during their
wandering.
c. High Holy Days
* Rosh Hashanah - Although Rosh Hashanah means "new year"

(literally, the "head [of] the year") it falls on the first day of the seventh
month of the Hebrew calendar, Tishri. It is called the Jewish New Year
because it celebrates the day that the world was created; it also marks
the beginning of the atonement period that ends ten days later with Yom
Kippur. During these ten days, one is required to apologize to everyone
whom one has wronged, and the aggrieved should forgive.
* Yom Kippur, ("Day of Atonement") is centered on redemption; a day
of atonement and fasting for sins committed individually and communally
during the previous year. Many consider this the most important Jewish
holiday. Yom Kippur is both a solemn day marked by self-scrutiny, when
Jews should "afflict" themselves (by fasting), and a celebratory day, as
Jews reflect on God's mercy.
d. Other holidays
* Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights or Festival of

Dedication, is an eight day Jewish holiday that starts on the 25th day of
Kislev (Hebrew calendar). The festival is observed in Jewish homes by
the kindling of lights on each of the festival's eight nights, one on the first
night, two on the second night and so on.
The holiday was called Hanukkah meaning "dedication" because it marks

the re-dedication of the Temple after its desecration under Antiochus IV.
Spiritually, Hanukkah commemorates the "Miracle of the Oil". According
to the Talmud, at the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem following
the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire, there was only
enough consecrated olive oil to fuel the eternal flame in the Temple for
one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days - which was the
length of time it took to press, prepare and consecrate new oil.
Hanukkah was originally a minor holiday within Judaism but in modern

times became one of the most celebrated and extravagant within the
Jewish community.
* Purim, is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance

of Persian Jews from the plot of the evil Haman to exterminate them, as
recorded in the biblical Book of Esther. It is characterized by public
recitation of the Book of Esther, giving mutual gifts of food and drink,
giving charity to the poor, and a celebratory meal (Esther 9:22); other
customs include drinking alcohol, wearing of masks and costumes, and

huge joyous and sometimes wild parties.
Jewish Denominations
Some of the more popular divisions among Judaism include:
a. Orthodox Judaism is a common traditional form of Judaism, which has a

broad adherence to historic traditions, and practices, and worship and belief in
traditional form. It holds that both the Written and Oral Torah were divinely
revealed to Moses, and that the laws within it are binding and unchanging.
b. Hasidic Judaism is a form of Orthodox Judaism based on the teachings

of Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer. Hasidic philosophy is rooted in the Kabbalah, and
Hasidic Jews accept the Kabbalah as sacred scripture. They are distinguished
both by a variety of special customs
and practices including reliance on a
Rebbe or supreme religious leader,
and for a special dress code
particular to each Hassidic group.
c. Conservative Judaism,
known as Masorti Judaism outside of
the United States and Canada,
developed in Europe and the United
States in the 1800s, as Jews reacted
to the changes brought about by the
Hasidic Jews are one part of the Haredi community, the most
Enlightenment and Jewish theologically conservative form of Judaism. Pictured here,
emancipation. It teaches that Jewish Hasidic Rebbes.
law was not static, but rather has
always developed in response to changing conditions. It holds that the Torah is
a divine document written by prophets inspired by God, but rejects the Orthodox
position that it was dictated by God to Moses.
d. Reform Judaism, called Liberal or

Progressive in many countries, originally
formed in Germany in response to the
Enlightenment. Its defining characteristic with
respect to the other movements is its rejection
of the binding nature of Jewish ceremonial law
as such and instead believing that individual
Jews should exercise an informed autonomy
about what to observe. Reform Judaism
rejected most of the ritual ceremonial laws of
the Torah while observing moral laws; and
In Reform Judaism, prayer is often conducted in the
emphasized the ethical call of the Prophets. vernacular and men and women have equal roles in
(Cited from Wikipedia.org) religious observance.
8. Judaism’s World-View (in Summary)
Judaism’s world-view can be basically summarized by their widely held principles

of faith.
Over the centuries, a number of clear formulations of Jewish principles of faith

have appeared, and though they differ with respect to certain details, they
demonstrate a commonality of core ideology. Of these, the one most widely
considered authoritative is Maimonides' thirteen principles of faith.
Today most of Orthodox Judaism holds these beliefs to be obligatory, and that
anyone who does not fully accept each one of them as potentially heretical:
1. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His Name, is the Creator and
Guide of everything that has been created; He alone has made, does make, and will make
all things.
2. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His Name, is One, and that
there is no unity in any manner like His, and that He alone is our God, who was, and is,
and will be.
3. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His Name, is not a body, and
that He is free from all the properties of matter, and that there can be no (physical)
comparison to Him whatsoever.
4. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His Name, is the first and the
last.
5. I believe with perfect faith that to the Creator, blessed be His Name, and to Him
alone, it is right to pray, and that it is not right to pray to any being besides Him.
6. I believe with perfect faith that all the works of the prophets are true.
7. I believe with perfect faith that the prophecy of Moses, our teacher, peace be upon
him, was true, and that he was the chief of the prophets, both of those who preceded him
and of those who followed him.
8. I believe with perfect faith that the entire Torah that is now in our possession is the
same that was given to Moses, our teacher, peace be upon him.
9. I believe with perfect faith that this Torah will not be changed, and that there will
never be any other Law from the Creator, blessed be His name.
10. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His name, knows all the
deeds of human beings, and all their thoughts, as it is said: “[He] that fashioned the
hearts of them all, [He] that comprehends all their actions.”
11. I believe with perfect faith that the Creator, blessed be His Name, rewards those that
keep His commandments and punishes those that transgress them.
12. I believe with perfect faith in the coming of the Messiah; and even though he may
tarry, with all this I wait every day for his coming.
13. I believe with perfect faith that there will be a revival of the dead at the time when it
shall please the Creator, blessed be His name, and exalted be His Name forever and ever.
(Cited from Wikipedia.org)
X. An Overview of various World Views
Agnosticism (There is no way of knowing for sure whether God exists)
Proponents:
T.H. Huxley
Beliefs:
(from Greek agnostos, “unknowable”), strictly speaking, the doctrine that humans cannot
know of the existence of anything beyond the phenomena of their experience. The term
has come to be equated with skepticism about religious questions in general and in
particular with the rejection of traditional Christian beliefs.
Results:
Uncertainty regarding life’s origin, purpose & destiny
Atheism (There is no God)
Proponents:
Ernest Nagel, Paul Edwards and Kai Nielsen
Beliefs:
Atheism is the disbelief in the existence of a deity or deities. It is commonly defined as
the positive denial of theism (ie. the assertion that deities do not exist), or the deliberate
rejection of theism (i.e., the refusal to believe in the existence of deities).
Results:
Anything goes; Man can make up his own rules for life; No fear of a divine
judgment.
Deism (God exists; He wound up the clock of the universe and let it run without
involvement)
Proponents:
Lord Herbert of Cherbury (d. 1648)
Beliefs:
Prior to the 17th century the terms ["deism" and "deist"] were used interchangeably with the terms
"theism" and "theist", respectively. ... Theologians and philosophers of the seventeenth century
began to give a different signification to the words.... Both [theists and deists] asserted belief on
one supreme God, the Creator.... and agreed that God is personal and distinct from the world. But
the theist taught that god remained actively interested in and operative in the world which he had
made, whereas the deist maintained that God endowed the world at creation with self-sustaining
and self-acting powers and then abandoned it to the operation of these powers acting as second
causes. In the afterlife, God will reward moral behavior and punish immoral behavior.
No “Holy Book” has been given to man by God.
Results:
God does not care and is not involved in the day to day details of life.
Dualism (Two Opposites are at work)
Proponents:
Eastern mysticism
Descartes
Beliefs:
Moral dualism is the belief of the coexistence (in eastern religions) or conflict (in western
religions) between the "benign" and the "malign". Most religious systems have some form
of moral dualism; in western religions for instance as a conflict between good, and evil.
Moral dualism simply implies that there are two moral opposites at work, independent of
any interpretation of what might be "moral"
The Universe and God are separate; Material/Non-material; Distinction between the
finite and the infinite; spirit and matter; Good and Evil.
Contrasts are evident in creation. For every positive there is a negative. For every action
there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Results:
The opposition and combination of the universe's two basic principles of Yin and Yang is
a large part of Taoist religion. Some of the common associations with Yang and Yin,
respectively, are: male and female, light and dark, active and passive, motion and
stillness.
Existentialism (Man can create his own meaning to life)
Proponents:
Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre
Beliefs:
Existentialism is a philosophical movement that negates the premise that life has an
inherent, or a priori meaning, and hence requires each existing individual to posit his own
subjective values. Questions regarding existence and subjective experience are seen as
being of paramount importance, above all other scientific and philosophical pursuits. It
emphasizes the uniqueness and isolation of the individual experience in a hostile or
indifferent universe, regards human existence as unexplainable, and stresses freedom of
choice and responsibility for the consequences of one's acts.
Results:
Existentialism tends to view human beings as subjects in an indifferent, objective, often
ambiguous, and "absurd" universe, in which meaning is not provided by the natural order,
but rather can be created, however provisionally and unstably, by human beings' actions
and interpretations.
Gnosticism (Privy to a secret knowledge about the divine)
Proponents:
Marcion; Basilides; Valentinus
Beliefs:
The term gnosis is a Greek word expressing a type of understanding or consciousness
gained through personal experience. It is through this type of transcendental experience
that followers of Gnostic belief systems seek escape from ignorance. Knowledge of a
specific kind as a central factor in this process of restoration, achieved through the
mediation of a redeemer figure. Gnosticism regards this world as the creation of a series
of evil archons/powers who wish to keep the human soul trapped in an evil physical body.
It is a religion that preaches a hidden wisdom or knowledge only to a select group as

necessary for salvation or escape from this world.
Results:
The Body is evil. Spiritual Pride.
Hedonism (Pursuit of Pleasure is Highest Aim)
Proponents:
John Stuart Mill, Jeremy Bentham, Epicureanism
Beliefs:
The basic idea behind hedonistic thought is that all actions can be measured on the basis
of how much pleasure and how little pain they produce. In very simple terms, a hedonist
strives to maximize this 'ratio' (pleasure over pain). The belief that pleasure is the
principal good, and should be the highest aim of the individual and society.
Results:
If it feels good, do it.
Humanism (Man is the measure of all things)
Proponents:
Paul Kurtz
Carl Sagan
Humanist Manifestos I & II
Beliefs:
Belief in Man rather than belief in God;
Confidence in human nature;
Truth is based on man’s experience;
Correlating beliefs: atheism, naturalism, evolution, and ethical relativism
Results:
Situation Ethics; Denial of supernatural.
Human beings "may, and do, make up their own rules... Morality is not discovered; it is
made."
Marxism (Every person governs his own life (without classes or institutions)
under communism)
Proponents:
Karl Marx
Capital: A Critique of Political Economy, more commonly known as Das Kapital (1867)
Beliefs:
The belief that we must do away with all institutions and establish a classless society.
Marx believed that the identity of a social class derived from its relationship to the means
of production (as opposed to the notion that class is determined by wealth alone, i.e.,
lower class, middle class, upper class). Marx regarded productive ability and
participation in social relations as two essential characteristics of human beings.
Results:
Marxists call for the elimination of the whole class of property owners as well as those
who own the means of production. (the source of society's problems).
The State owns everything and controls everything.
Monism
Beliefs:
The Universe is a partial manifestation of God; Creation is an appendage of God. God
transcends creation but is not truly distinct from God. God would be changed if creation
were destroyed.
Pantheism
Proponents:
Hinduistic thinking
Beliefs:
All is one and All is God; God is not different from All and All is not different from God;
There is but one substance
Results:
Self-deification (“I am god”)
Prayer is nothing more than a “pep talk”
Pragmatism (If it works, it must be right)
Relativism (There are no absolutes)

The World View

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

The World View

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

The World View

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Pilgrim Bible Baptist Theological Seminary

II. The Necessity for Divine Revelation

III. What Has God Revealed about the Origins of Life?

IV. What Has God Revealed About His Work in Creation?

V. What Has God Revealed About TRUTH

VI. What is my Purpose on Earth? Why Am I here?

VII. The Christian’s Perspective of the WORLD

VIII. Practical Principles Resulting from a Christian World-View

IX. A Comparison and Contrast of the Major Religious World Views

X. An Overview of various World Views

Everyone has a perspective of Life.

You worldview seeks to answer the big questions:

 Who (or what) made me? (Creation vs. Evolution)

 Why am I here? (Purpose & Meaning to Life)

 Where am I going? (Life after Death)

Your worldview affects how you see everything:

 How you feel about yourself and others

 How you view other people

 How you view the family

 How you view child rearing

 How you view morals & ethics

 How you prioritize your life

 How you utilize your time, talent, & treasure

 How you think, make decisions, and live

II. The Necessity for Divine Revelation

A. The Definition of Revelation: Throughout history God has

1. The term "revelation" simply describes God's communication to

To reveal Himself to man, God used natural means (creation and

2. The Biblical terminology

a. The Hebrew term "qalah" - to uncover, strip, remove

b. The Greek term, "apokalypsis" - to take a covering or

The New Testament uses the word " Mystery" to describe

B. The Necessity for Revelation

1. By nature (creation) man is unable to discover God.

a. Man cannot see God - Is. 45:15; I Tim. 6:15-16.

b. Man cannot know God - Is. 55:9; I Cor. 2:14

a. Because of sin, man now hides from God (Gen. 3:8)

b. Because of sin, man views spiritual things as

" foolishness" (I Cor. 2:14)

c. Because of sin, man is totally depraved--" dead to

When man fell in the Garden, he broke fellowship and

C. The Two Types of Revelation:

D. General Revelation (natural)

a. General revelation comes to man as man (special

b. All general revelation was established before the fall.

c. General revelation comes through the natural order of

d. General revelation comes to all rational men (All have

2. The Channels of General Revelation:

a. Creation (The objective nature of the universe)

SEE: Rom. 1:18-21

What does creation reveal?

1) The visible creation shows the invisible creator.

a) "Eternal power" - His might points to God's

b) "Godhead" - His majesty: points to God's

NOTE: from creation we do not know God, but we know

2) Creation shows man to be without excuse No

NOTE: General (natural) revelation via creation cannot

b. Conscience (the innate nature of man)

1) Man was created in the image of God