“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1
O.S. Hawkins’ says “The simple fact is that one’s worldview can be determined by one’s response to the first five words of the Bible…. If we believe these five words, then we will view our world through the lens of Scripture that does not change. If we do not, then we will continue to view our world through the lens of culture that continually changes.”
So what exactly is a worldview? A worldview comprises one’s collection of presuppositions, convictions and values from which a person tries to understand and make sense out of the world. It is basically a working philosophy of life.
Let’s take a quick look at these words…
“In the beginning” – Long before what we refer to as the “beginning”, the glory of God existed. “Now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had before the world was.” (John 17:5) We were created for the glory of God. Believing this should have a huge impact on our life.
“God” – This is the Hebrew word Elohim, which appears in its plural form – hinting to us in the initial verse of the Bible that God is pictured as three: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The doctrine of the Trinity is one of the great truths and great mysteries of the Bible. It is the Father’s creating work, the Son’s saving work, and the Spirit’s sanctifying work that enables us to know and enjoy Him.
“created” – The Hebrew word here carries with it the connotation that something is created out of nothing. The physical universe was spoken into existence by God Himself. We are not products of time and chance (evolution). We were created with intentionality and and for a purpose.
If this verse defines your worldview then you have the beginnings of a great foundation upon which to base your life brick by brick. If, however, you let the culture we live in define how you view the world then you are basing your life on shifting sand. And you would have good reason not only to worry but to be scared.