Preface to “This Present Time”

A Biblical Worldview:

It Does Make A Difference What I Believe!

1-1-2023

Our mission statement:

The Mission of the Christian Life family is to

create environments in which people encounter God,

resulting in purpose-filled lives based on a Biblical worldview.

What is a “worldview”? The beliefs that my life is built upon. These beliefs shape my actions, priorities, and goals.

1. What are some typical worldviews?

► Materialism

Luke 12:15 New International Version Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

► Narcissism

Matthew 16:25 NIV For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.

► Hedonism

Proverbs 21:17 NIV He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.

► Pragmatism

Proverbs 14:12 NIV There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

2. As Christians, we are called to develop and live out a worldview with its roots in the teachings of the Bible.

Colossians 1:16 NIV For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth,visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.

3. How important are our beliefs?

► My worldview shapes my life.

Proverbs 4:23 New Living Translation Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

► My worldview determines the level of blessing in my life.

Proverbs 29:18 NLT When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful.

► “Sincerity” alone cannot justify our lifestyle.

4. What are the initial steps to establishing a Biblical worldview?

► Fill your life with God’s truth.

John 8:32 NIV Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

Proverbs 23:23 NIV Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.

► Develop a discernment that exposes what is false.

1John 4:1 NIV Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits tosee whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

► Embrace the process of a transformed life.

Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

1 Corinthians 14:20 NIV Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.

► Commit your life to the establishing of God’s Kingdom.

Matthew 6:33 NIV But seekfirst his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well