Worldview Teacher Manual samples - Summit Ministries

Building 

on the 

Rock 

A Biblical Christian Worldview and Bible Survey Curriculum for Grades 1-6 

“The wise man built his house on rock.” Matthew 7:24b ICB 

by 

John F. Hay, Jr. 

A World of Worldviews 

An Introduction to Biblical and Unbiblical Beliefs About Truth, 

God, Human Beings, the Universe, and Values 

Teacher Manual 

Volume 1 

Level 6 

® 

A Summit Ministries® Curriculum 

For more information please visit www.summit.org or call: 719-685-9103

Credits 

Editors 

Nancy Hay 

Amanda Lewis 

Illustrators 

Pat Edwards 

Justin Hotz 

Vance Warwick 

Design Layout 

Joel Putnam 

Chris White 

Video 

Todd Cothran 

Worldview Model Design 

Steven Myasato 

Go Organic India 

Music Composition and Recording 

Brad Nyght 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®. Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible 

Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 

Scriptures marked ESV are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a 

division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 

Scriptures marked God's Word are taken from God's Word. God's Word is a copyrighted work of God's Word to the Nations 

Bible Society. Quotations are used by permission. Copyright 1995 by God's Word to the Nations Bible Society. All rights 

reserved. 

Scriptures marked ICB are taken from the International Children’s Bible®. Copyright© 1986, 1988, 1999 by Tommy Nelson 

®, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 

Scriptures marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible®. Copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 

1972, 1973, 1975, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) 

Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by 

permission. All rights reserved. 

Scriptures marked NLT are taken from the New Living Translation. Copyright 1996 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by 


Artwork used with permission. ©Bill Noller International Publishing. San Dimas, CA 91773. Illustrations by Allan Parry. 

Copyright© 2009 Summit Ministries®, Manitou Springs, Colorado 

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced (with the exception of the specified Blackline Masters 

included), transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form by any means 

without the written permission of Summit Ministries, Manitou Springs, Colorado. 

ISBN 0-936163-77-1 (Volume 1) 

Published by Summit Press, P.O. Box 207, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 

Printed in India 

ii

contents 

Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................ iii 

Foreword ............................................................................................................................................................................. v 

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... vii 

General Format for the Worldview Curriculum ..................................................................................................... viii 

Materials for the Worldview Curriculum .................................................................................................................. xi 

Syllabus for Units 1-5 ................................................................................................................................................... xv 

volume 1 

UNIT 1: What in the world is a worldview? 

Lesson 1: What is a worldview? Why does it matter? 

The Definition and the Characteristics of a Worldview .......................................................................... 1 

Lesson 2: a world of worldviews 

An Introduction to Three Major Categories of Worldviews ............................................................... 29 

UNIT 2: Biblical Christianity—the True view of god and the world 

Lesson 3: god's great story 

Creation, Fall, and Redemption—A Cosmic Drama in Three Acts ............................................................ 47 

Lesson 4: the house of truth—the foundation of wisdom 

A Model of God's Great Story .................................................................................................................... 69 

Lesson 5: The house of truth—the fellowship wall 


Lesson 6: The house of truth—the image-bearing wall 


lesson 7: the house of truth—the servanthood wall 

A Model of God's Great Story .................................................................................................................. 109 

lesson 8: the house of truth—the stewardship wall 


lesson 9: the house of truth—the roof of character 


Lesson 10: "I, THE LORD, SPEAK THE TRUTH" Isaiah 45:19 

The Biblical Christian View of Truth ........................................................................................................ 149 

Lesson 11: "I AM God, and there is no other" Isaiah 46:9 

The Biblical Christian View of God—Part 1 .............................................................................................. 191 

Lesson 12: In the Name of the father, son, and holy spirit Matthew 28:19 

The Biblical Christian View of God—Part 2 ............................................................................................ 231 

Lesson 13: "let us make man in our image" Genesis 1:26 

The Biblical Christian View of People—Part 1 ........................................................................................ 267 

Lesson 14: "for the glory of god" 1 Corinthians 10:31 

The Biblical Christian View of People—Part 2 ....................................................................................... 299 

iii

Lesson 15: "for by him all things were created" colossians 1:16 

The Biblical Christian View of the Universe ........................................................................................... 321 

Lesson 16: "Be holy, because i am holy" 1 peter 1:16 

The Biblical Christian View of Moral Laws and Values ........................................................................ 353 

iv

FOREWORD 

Opinions vary about Christian schools and the educational movement of which they are a part. From a negative 

perspective, Christian schools are regarded as reactionary institutions attempting to cocoon students from the 

perceived corrupting influences and problems of modern society. From a positive perspective, however, Christian 

schools can be models for educational excellence preparing students to enter society with a distinctively Christian 

worldview through which they can integrate their faith and academic knowledge. An integrated approach 

to education enables students not only to remain firm in their faith, but also to make valuable contributions to 

society throughout their lives. 

The goal of fusing students’ Christian faith with a commitment to action in the marketplace of life is not easy to 

achieve, even for Christian schools committed to such an ideal. Three factors seem to inhibit students from developing 

an integrated Christian worldview. The first factor Christian schools are working against is the popular 

belief that both truth and the activities of life are either sacred or secular. This dichotomous view of truth and life 

is so culturally entrenched that students are unable to develop a holistic view of life and for life. They act out 

their daily routines in one or both of two distinct realms, the public secular arena and/or the private sacred arena, 

rather than pursuing all activities with an understanding of the integrity of all dimensions of reality. 

A second factor inhibiting students from developing an integrated Christian worldview comes from within the 

Christian school curriculum itself. It is a failure to develop a cohesive approach to the academic subjects and 

the religious subjects in the curriculum. The “spiritual dimensions” such as Bible study and chapel services are 

deemed sufficient in and of themselves to instill the right worldview and motivate students to Christian action. 

This lack of an integrated curriculum further entrenches dichotomous sacred/secular thinking. 

A third factor inhibiting students from developing a distinctively Christian worldview results from the previous 

two: without an ability to think Christianly, students influenced by cultural and philosophical pluralism develop 

an eclectic worldview. Without a definitive worldview, students incorporate not only the predominate worldview 

of the culture, but also elements of other views found in the global marketplace of ideas. 

In his book Subversive Christianity, Brian Walsh confronts this inability to think Christianly when he writes that 

“our consciousness, our imagination, our vision have been captured by idolatrous perceptions and ways of life. 

The dominant worldview, the all-pervasive secular consciousness, has captured our lives.” 1 Harry Blamires, a 

Christian apologist, echoes the same thought in his book The Christian Mind when he says that “except over a 

very narrow field of thinking, chiefly touching questions of strictly personal conduct, we Christians in the modern 

world accept, for the purpose of mental activity, a frame of reference constructed by the secular mind and a set 

of criteria reflecting secular evaluations.” 2 

Regretfully, the observations of Walsh and Blamires are confirmed by the fact that many Christian school students 

and graduates cannot articulate or apply the Biblical Christian worldview in their daily lives. Many waver in 

their faith when confronted with the carefully articulated arguments for secular humanism, Marxism, pantheism, 

and other non-Christian views. 3 Swayed by popular culture, they have been taken “captive through hollow and 

deceptive philosophy which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on 

Christ” (Colossians 2:8 NIV). 

Aware of this intense spiritual warfare for the minds of children and youth, Summit Ministries is committed to 

developing curricula that can help students articulate and apply the Christian worldview to every aspect of reality. 

A key strategy in this battle for the mind is the development of Building on the Rock, a worldview and Bible 

survey curriculum for children ages 6 to 12 that cohesively presents the affirmations of the Christian worldview 

within the historic biblical truths of creation, fall, and redemption. My prayer is that those who embark on this 

educational endeavor will find it not only rewarding, but will know that their investment in the children they teach 

will not return void, either in this world or in the world to come. 

John Hay 

Summit Ministries 

January 2009 

v

Notes 

1. Brian Walsh, Subversive Christianity (Bristol: Regis Press, 1992), p. 28. 

2. Harry Blamires, The Christian Mind (1963, Ann Arbor, Servant Books, reprinted., 1978), p. 4. 

3. Gary Railsback, An Exploratory Study of the Religiosity and Related Outcomes Among College Students: 

A Ph.D. Dissertation (Los Angeles: UCLA, 1994). 

vi

introduction 

Summit Ministries 

Established in 1962, Summit Ministries exists to train Christian leaders to understand our times and to know 

what it means to think Christianly in every area of life. A key strategy for training has been the development 

of comparative worldview curriculum materials, including the centerpiece, Understanding the Times (revised 

2nd edition) by Dr. David Noebel. This comprehensive text for older teens and adults examines ten academic 

disciplines within a framework of six worldviews including Marxism, Secular Humanism, Cosmic Humanism, 

Postmodernism, Islam, and Biblical Christianity. Curriculum materials for the one-year course include the student 

text and study guide, a teacher’s guide, and videotapes related to contemporary issues. 

For younger teens, Lightbearers provides an introduction to comparative worldview studies using an abridged edition 

of Understanding the Times. This one-year curriculum also includes videos and supplemental materials. 

Building on the Rock is designed for students 6 to 12 years old. The purpose of this unique curriculum is to 

help children begin to formulate and apply a biblical worldview at an early age. It lays the groundwork for later 

comparative worldview studies at the secondary and higher levels of education. 

The Rationale 

Children form beliefs and values early in life and bring these to school and into the classroom. These foundational 

beliefs and values influence how students interpret knowledge and govern how they act. Building on the Rock 

is designed to help students interpret knowledge and build foundational beliefs and values from a Christian 

perspective. In an age of competing worldviews, this curriculum will help young students formulate a biblical 

perspective of the world and then live accordingly. 

The Goals 

The goals for Building on the Rock are based on the understanding that no worldview curriculum can or should 

provide an exact model for Christian thinking and action. Rather, a worldview curriculum must present a framework 

of biblical truth and values, encourage students to reflect upon it, and provide opportunities in various formats 

for them to apply what they have learned. Ultimately, students must individually embrace biblical truth and act 

on it as they are enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit. Within these parameters, the goal of this curriculum 

is to help young students begin to develop a cohesive Christian worldview through which they can interpret the 

world around them and respond biblically to it in their thinking and doing. 

The Design 

A Correlated Worldview and Bible Survey Curriculum 

A common concern among many Christian school Bible teachers is that after several years of religious education 

or biblical studies, students neither understand the relationships between the Bible facts they have memorized, 

nor can they link them with a clearly defined Christian worldview. Bible stories such as the exodus, David and 

Goliath, and Paul’s missionary journeys remain unrelated to real-life issues. This disjointed perspective reinforces 

the sacred/secular dichotomy and inhibits the development of a Christian worldview. Building on the Rock is a 

correlated worldview and Bible survey curriculum that examines the major events and truths of the Bible holistically 

within the Christian worldview. The worldview component is designed to be taught in the first two-thirds of the 

school year, providing the framework for the Bible survey, designed to be taught in the last third. 

A correlated worldview and Bible survey curriculum accommodates the limited time slots Christian schools have 

for incorporating Bible or religious studies into schedules already filled with state required subjects. Schools that 

already offer a Bible survey course and want to add specific worldview studies often encounter a time factor 

dilemma. The correlated approach of Building on the Rock, which can be taught in a single time slot, provides 

a workable solution. 

vii

General Format for the worldview curriculum 

The SIX Sections of building on the rock 

The worldview curriculum for Levels 1 through 6 is divided into six Sections designed to help students understand 

the essential affirmations of the Biblical Christian worldview within a framework of the four relationships of 

creation—our relationship with God, with self, with others, and with the earth. The worldview study for Level 6 is 

packaged in two Teacher Manuals entitled A World of Worldviews, Volume 1 and A World of Worldviews, Volume 

2. The worldview study is designed to be taught first, usually within the first six months of the school year. The 

Bible Survey for Level 6 is packaged in one Teacher Manual entitled God's New Family: The Birth and Early 

History of the Church, Volume 3 and is designed to be taught during the last three months of the school year. 

Section 1, entitled Wisdom (Level 1), lays the foundation for the curriculum by presenting the biblical perspective 

of God and truth, emphasizing the relational nature of God and the personal nature of truth as expressed in 

Christ. 

Sections 2 through 5, entitled Fellowship (Level 2), Image-Bearing (Level 3), Servanthood (Level 4), and Stewardship 

(Level 5) focus on the four relationships of creation. Each section contains four Units of study developed within 

the biblical framework of creation, fall, and redemption. The first two Units within each Section address God’s 

creational intent for the relationship. The third Unit focuses on the effects of the fall on the relationship, and the 

fourth on the redemption and restoration of the relationship through the atoning work of Christ. 

Section 6, entitled A World of Worldviews (Level 6), introduces students to the essential components of all 

worldviews, laying the groundwork for Lightbearers in the middle grades and further comparative worldview 

studies. 

Below is an overview of Building on the Rock's content for Sections 1-5 (Grade Levels 1-5). Section 6 (Grade 

Level 6) is a stand-alone curriculum in that it does not review Sections 1-5 systematically. 

Section 1: WISDOM (Purple) 

Building the Foundation of My Life on God, My Rock, by Knowing, Loving, and Obeying 

Him 

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10 

“Everyone who hears my words and obeys them is like a wise man who built his house on rock.” Matthew 7:24 NCV 

Key Themes 

The nature and apprehension of truth 

The revelation of truth 

The attributes and character of God 

The Trinity 

God the Creator 

The aspects and nature of creation 

Section 2: FELLOWSHIP (Red) 

Building a Relationship of Harmony With God When I Believe Jesus Is God’s Son and My 

Savior 

. . . the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God has God 

living inside, and that person lives in God. 1 John 4:14-15 NCV 

And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3 

Key Themes 

The origin of people 

The purpose of people 

The finite, dependent nature of people 

The nature of fellowship with God 

viii

The fall and fellowship 

The moral nature of people 

The origin and nature of sin 

The consequences of sin 

Redemption and fellowship 

The meaning and purpose of the atonement 

The nature of the new birth and fellowship with God 

Section 3: IMAGE-BEARING (Yellow) 

Building a Relationship of Harmony With Myself as I Become More Like Jesus 

We all show the Lord's glory, and we are being changed to be like him. 2 Corinthians 3:18 ICB 

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him. Genesis 1:27 

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges 

that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. 1 John 4:14-15 

Key Themes 

People as image-bearers of God 

The worth and dignity of people 

The basis of self-worth 

The nature of our relationship with self 

The fall and image-bearing 

The nature of our marred image 

The consequences of sin on our relationship with self 

Redemption and image-bearing 

The positional characteristics of the new creation in Christ 

The renewing and maturing of the new creation in Christ 

Section 4: SERVANTHOOD (Blue) 

Building a Relationship of Harmony With Others as I Serve Them in Love 

“. . . whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Mark 10:43 

“. . . serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13 

Key Themes 

The social nature of people 

The family 

The government 

The nature of the social/servant relationship with others 

The fall and servanthood 

The characteristics of broken relationships with others 

The family and the nation as affected by the fall 

Redemption and servanthood 

The origin and nature of the church 

The role of the church including the Great Commandment and the Great Commission 

Section 5: STEWARDSHIP (Green) 

Building a Relationship of Harmony With God's Creation as I Appreciate It and Rule Over 

It 

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” Genesis 1:28 

You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet. Psalm 8:6 

Key Themes 

The dimensions and nature of the creation 

God’s sustaining relationship with creation 

The cultural mandate and stewardship 

The fall and stewardship 

ix

The effects of the fall on nature 

The sin nature of people and stewardship of the earth 

Redemption and stewardship 

The nature of the atonement in relation to the earth 

The role of people in the redeemed order prior to the return of Christ 

The glorified order and the restoration of nature 

Section 6: A WORLD OF WORLDVIEWS 

An Introduction to Biblical and Unbiblical Beliefs About God, the Universe, Human Beings, 

Truth, and Values 

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition 

and the basic principles of the world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 

Key Themes 

The meaning of worldview 

Biblical Christianity as the true view of God and the world 

Islam as an unbiblical view of God and the world 

Naturalism as an unbiblical view of God and the world 

The New Age as an unbiblical view of God and the world 

A Five-Year Spiral Curriculum Sequence 

Designed to coordinate with the first six years of primary American education (ages 6-11), Building on the Rock 

includes six Sections of study in both the Worldview and Bible Survey components. A spiral sequence for Levels 

1 through 5 assures that students receive continuing worldview and correlating Bible content at age-appropriate 

levels of difficulty. Each grade level concentrates on one of the five Sections of the curriculum and either reviews 

or introduces the other four. This approach helps students see the “big picture” of the five-year study and assures 

that concepts are developed and reinforced at each grade level. The spiral sequence also benefits students who 

enter the curriculum at different grade levels. The Level 6 introduction to worldviews stands alone and prepares 

students for Lightbearers in the middle grades and further comparative worldview studies. 

WISDOM FELLOWSHIP IMAGE- 

BEARING 

SERVANT- 

HOOD 

STEWARD- 

SHIP 

WORLDVIEW 

Level 1 FOCUS Intro Intro Intro Intro - 

Level 2 Review FOCUS Intro Intro Intro - 

Level 3 Review Review FOCUS Intro Intro - 

Level 4 Review Review Review FOCUS Intro - 

Level 5 Review Review Review Review FOCUS - 

Level 6 - - - - - FOCUS 

x

materials for the worldview curriculum 

TEACHER TRAINING DVD 

The Teacher Training DVD contains important foundational material to help you understand the philosophy, 

structure, and scope and sequence of Building on the Rock. It also includes useful teaching tips. 

THE TEACHER MANUAL 

The worldview curriculum for Level 6 is packaged in two Teacher Manuals entitled A World of Worldviews, Volume 

1 and A World of Worldviews, Volume 2. The worldview study is designed to be taught first, usually within the 

first six months of the school year. The two-volume Teacher Manual for the worldview component of Building on 

the Rock includes the following features: 

syllabus 

A syllabus or suggested timetable for teaching the worldview curriculum is included in the introductory pages 

of each volume of the Teacher Manual. The syllabus includes suggested correlating activities from the Student 

Worktext. 

Lesson Plans 

Detailed plans are included for every Lesson in Building on the Rock. Lesson plans are not scripted and include 

more material than you may be able to use; once you have internalized the concepts, feel free to use your own 

words as you teach. Lesson plans include the following helpful features to guide you: 

Lesson Number, Title, and Subtitle—an informal Title and a formal Subtitle 

Preparing to Teach—includes the following preparatory information: 

Introduction—a brief overview of the content of the lesson 

Memory Verse—a Bible verse applicable to the Lesson content 

Objectives—a list of goals specific to the lesson 

Materials—an itemized list of teaching materials you will need for each lesson, including the Worldview 

Model, Posters, Blackline Masters to duplicate, and items for you to collect or prepare before teaching 

the lesson 

Comprehension and Application Activities—a list of suggested Activity Sheets in the Student Worktext 

and suggestions for Group Activities, Discussions, and Community Extensions designed to reinforce 

comprehension of lesson content and help students apply it to real life 

Teaching the Lesson—a carefully designed sequence of visual presentations, discussion questions, and 

activities to provide guidance for an orderly presentation of the lesson concepts. The lesson sequences 

frequently include the following prompts: 

Explain . . . allowing you to use your own words to bring understanding to a concept 

Lead the discussion to focus on . . . allowing you to direct student responses toward an 

essential concept being presented 

xi

Ascertain students’ understanding . . . allowing you to use certain activities and questions to 

determine students’ readiness for learning a concept 

Note: The lesson outline is not intended to be a verbatim teacher script. 

Lesson presentation includes the following organizational features: 

Getting Started—Includes general background information for the teacher and student activities to 

set the stage for the lesson content 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussions—Follows the content of the Student Worktext topic by topic 

and includes Suggested Discussion Questions for each section 

Background for the Teacher—Includes background information and explanations not included in the 

Student Worktext 

THE STUDENT WORKTEXT 

The Worldview Student Worktext that accompanies Building on the Rock includes instructional material and 

Activity Sheets for developing comprehension and applying the concepts emphasized in each Lesson. Activity 

Sheets include student directions. 

The Worldview Student Worktext includes the following: 

Getting Started—Includes general background information for the student and activities intended to set 

the stage for the lesson content 

Topics—Lesson content written for students to read and study independently or as a class; includes definitions 

of key words and phrases and the Lesson Memory Verse; Topics (or groups of Topics) are followed by 

learning activities to be completed independently, in small groups, or as a class after you develop the lesson 

concepts (Teacher Manual and Student Worktext work in tandem with each other) 

The Main Points—activities to reinforce lesson concepts 

Scripture Search— activities to reinforce lesson concepts specifically through Scriptures 

Hiding God’s Word—activities to reinforce memorization of Bible verses 

Thinking About It—activities to promote personal application of lesson concepts 

Writing About It—writing prompts to elicit personal application of lesson concepts 

THE STUDENT WORKTEXT ANSWER KEY 

An answer key for Student Worktext Activity Sheets is provided in a separate spiral binder. 

The following Visual Aids are provided: 

VISUALS 

Blackline Master (BLM) Memory Verse Cards—photocopying masters for the Lesson Memory Verse 

xii

Blackline Master (BLM) Word/Phrase Cards—photocopying masters for key vocabulary words 

Blackline Master (BLM) Definition Cards—photocopying masters for key definitions 

Note: For large classes, overhead transparencies may be created from the Visual Aid Cards. 

THE WORLDVIEW MODEL 

The basic framework of biblical thought within the Christian worldview contends that God interacts personally 

with His creation. Based on this framework, Building on the Rock emphasizes the relationships expressed in 

the doctrines of God, creation, the fall, and redemption. The relational unity of the Godhead is reflected in the 

integrity of all aspects of creation. This unity is experienced personally in the harmonious relationships God 

ordained us to have with Him, with self, with others, and with nature. As a result of the fall, each of these personal 

relationships is marred. In redemption, each relationship is restored in harmony as God’s shalom and healing 

is channeled through the atoning work of Christ. 

The Worldview Model or House of Truth that accompanies Building on the Rock is designed to portray the 

essential tenets of Christian belief within the context of relationships. Specifically it is designed to illustrate God’s 

creational intent for each relationship, the effects of the fall on each relationship, and the effects of redemption 

on each relationship. The Worldview Model, when used properly, will enable students to “see” representationally 

the essential affirmations of the Christian worldview. 

The Worldview Model is designed as a house that you and your students will build together. Each component of 

the house represents one or more affirmations of the Biblical Christian worldview. Students are encouraged to 

follow Wise William as he constructs his House of Truth upon the Rock of Truth, God and His Word. As you teach 

each Section of Building on the Rock, you will build parts into the House of Truth. The blocks are color-coded to 

correspond to the Section color. You are encouraged to allow your students to work with Wise William’s House 

of Truth not only during the lesson, but also at other times of the day when appropriate. The Teacher Manual 

and Curriculum Kit provide instructions for assembling and caring for the Worldview Model. 

The Worldview Model includes the following building blocks: 

The Rock of Truth Representing God and His Word—Gold (1 piece) 

The Rock is the foundation upon which Wise William builds his house. 

The Foundation of Wisdom Representing the Nature and Character of God—Purple (5 blocks) 

One block defines Wisdom, and four blocks representing Biblical Truths 1 through 4 display truths about God. 

The Fellowship Wall Representing Our Relationship With God—Red (6 blocks) 

The base block defines Fellowship. Two pillars representing Biblical Truths 5 and 6 display truths about 

God’s design for our relationship with Him. A third pillar representing Biblical Truth 7 describes the effects 

of the fall on fellowship. A fourth pillar representing Biblical Truth 8 describes the effects of redemption. The 

header block includes the curriculum theme verse, Matthew 7:24. 

The Image-Bearing Wall Representing Our Relationship With Self—Yellow (6 blocks) 

The base block defines Image-Bearing. Two pillars representing Biblical Truths 9 and 10 display truths about 

God’s design for our relationship with self. A third pillar representing Biblical Truth 11 describes the effects of 

the fall on image-bearing. A fourth pillar representing Biblical Truth 12 describes the effects of redemption. 

The header block includes the curriculum theme verse, Matthew 7:24. 

The Servanthood Wall Representing Our Relationships With Others—Blue (6 blocks) 

The base block defines Servanthood. Two pillars representing Biblical Truths 13 and 14 display truths about 

God’s design for our relationship with others. A third pillar representing Biblical Truth 15 describes the effects 

of the fall on servanthood. A fourth pillar representing Biblical Truth 16 describes the effects of redemption. 


xiii

The Stewardship Wall Representing Our Relationship With the Earth—Green (6 blocks) 

The base block defines Stewardship. Two pillars representing Biblical Truths 17 and 18 display truths about 

God’s design for our relationship with the earth. A third pillar representing Biblical Truth 19 describes the 

effects of the fall on stewardship. A fourth pillar representing Biblical Truth 20 describes the effects of redemption. 


The Roof of Character—Gold (1 piece) 

The roof bears the names of the Twenty Character Traits learned in conjunction with the Twenty Biblical 

Truths presented throughout Building on the Rock. 

SYMBOL CARDS 

Twenty laminated Symbol Cards represent the Twenty Biblical Truths presented in Sections/Grade Levels 1-5 of 

Building on the Rock. The nature of God and truth and the concepts of harmony, disharmony, and the restoration 

of harmony within the four relationships of creation are depicted by musical note symbols. Symbol Cards are 

color-coded to correlate with the Section in which they are taught. 

Section 1—Wisdom: Four purple-bordered Symbol Cards representing Biblical Truths 1-4 

Section 2—Fellowship: Four red-bordered Symbol Cards representing Biblical Truths 5-8 

Section 3—Image-Bearing: Four yellow-bordered Symbol Cards representing Biblical Truths 9-12 

Section 4—Servanthood: Four blue-bordered Symbol Cards representing Biblical Truths 13-16 

Section 5—Stewardship: Four green-bordered Symbol Cards representing Biblical Truths 17-20 

Instructions for using the Symbol Cards are included in the Teacher Manual. As you construct the Worldview 

Model or House of Truth during the term, you are encouraged to allow students to match the Symbol Cards with 

the respective building blocks of the Model. Symbol Cards can be reproduced and mounted on the four walls 

of the classroom, corresponding to the four walls and foundation of the Model, thus creating a visual reminder 

of the essential affirmations of the Biblical Christian worldview. As students explore concepts in other subjects 

of the school curriculum, they can begin to interpret and integrate them into the framework of the Christian 

worldview. 

POSTERS 

The following laminated poster sets are included in the curriculum package: 4 Worldview Posters; 11 Days of 

Creation posters; 5 Books of the Bible posters; and 1 Cross and Crown poster. Suggestions for their use are 

included in the Teacher Manuals. 

BIBLICAL TRUTH COUPLETS CD 

Each curriculum package contains a CD of the Twenty Biblical Truth Couplets set to music to aid in student 

memorization. 

3 IN ONE, A PICTURE OF GOD 

Joanne Marxhausen's book is provided to supplement instruction on the Trinity. 

TUNING FORK 

A tuning fork is provided to illustrate the attributes of God and the concepts of harmony and disharmony in the 

relationships of creation. Suggestions for its use are provided in the Teacher Manual. 

xiv

A WORLD OF WORLDVIEWS 

Syllabus Days 1-50 

UNIT 1: WHAT IN THE WORLD IS A WORLDVIEW? 

Lessons 1-2 

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 

TEACHER MANUAL 

STUDENT WORKTEXT 

AND ACTIVITIES 

1 

1 

1 

Preparing to Teach: pp. 1-3 

Getting Started: pp. 3-9 

Unit 1 Title Page: p. 1 


The Main Points: pp. 5-6 

Thinking About It: pp. 7-8 

Group Activities & Discussions: TM p. 3 

2 

1 

1 

Topic 1: pp. 9-12 

Topic 2: pp. 12-13 

Topic 3: pp. 14-16 

Topic 1: p. 9 

Topic 2: p. 10 

Topic 3: pp. 11-12 

Thinking About It: p. 13 

The Main Points: p. 14 

Writing About It: pp. 15-16 

3 

1 

1 

Topic 4: pp. 16-19 

Topic 5: pp. 19-22 

Topic 4: pp. 17-18 

Topic 5: pp. 18-20 

Writing About It: p. 21 


4 

1 

1 

Topic 6: pp. 22-28 

Topic 6: pp. 23-26 

Lesson 1 Memory Verse: p. 26 



Hiding God's Word: pp. 31-32 

5 

1 

2 




Group Activities & Community 

Extensions: TM p. 31 

6 

1 

2 

Topic 1: pp. 35-40 

Topic 1: pp. 36-39 


7 

1 

2 

Topic 2: pp. 41-43 

Topic 3: pp. 43-46 



Topic 3: pp. 44-45 




xv

UNIT 2: BIBLICAL CHRISTIANITY— 

THE TRUE VIEW OF GOD AND THE WORLD 

Lessons 3-16 

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




8 

2 

3 



Topic 1: pp. 52-55 

Topic 2: pp. 55-59 

Unit 2 Title Page: p. 51 


Topic 1: pp. 54-55 

Topic 2: pp. 56-57 


9 

2 

3 

Topic 3: pp. 59-63 

Topic 4: pp. 63-67 

Topic 3: pp. 58-59 

Topic 4: pp. 60-62 



10 

2 

3 

No TM Material 





11 

2 

4 



Topic 1: pp. 72-74 

Topic 2: pp. 74-75 

Topic 3: pp. 75-81 

Getting Started: pp. 69 



Topic 3: pp. 71-73 



Scripture Search: p. 76 


Group Activities: TM pp. 70-71 

12 

2 

5 



Topic 1: pp. 85-87 

Topic 2: pp. 87-96 

Getting Started: p. 79 


Topic 2: pp. 80-84 




Group Activities: TM p. 84 

13 

2 

6 


Topic 1: pp. 98-100 

Topic 2: pp. 100-108 


Topic 2: pp. 90-94 





xvi

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




14 

2 

7 


Topic 1: pp. 110-112 

Topic 2: pp. 112-121 


Topic 2: pp. 100-104 






15 

2 

8 


Topic 1: pp. 124-126 

Topic 2: pp. 126-136 

Topic 1: p. 109 

Topic 2: pp. 110-115 





16 

2 

9 


Topic 1: pp. 139-140 

Topic 2: pp. 141-142 

Topic 3: pp. 143-144 

Topic 1: p. 121 

Topic 2: pp. 122-123 

Lesson 9 Memory Verse: pp. 122, 124 

Topic 3: pp. 124-125 



17 

2 

9 

Topic 4: pp. 145-146 

Topic 5: pp. 147-148 

Topic 4: pp. 126-127 

Lesson 9 Memory Verse: pp. 126, 128 

Topic 5: pp. 128-129 




18 

2 

10 



Topic 1: pp. 154-159 


Topic 1: pp. 139-142 



19 

2 

10 

Topic 2: pp. 159-164 

Topic 3: pp. 165-167 

Topic 2: pp. 145-148 

Lesson 10 Memory Verse 1: p. 148 

Topic 3: pp. 149-150 




Hiding God's Word: p. 154 


20 

2 

10 

Topic 4: pp. 168-177 

Topic 4: pp. 155-162 



21 

2 

10 

Topic 5: pp. 177-186 

Topic 5: pp. 165-171 

Scripture Search: pp. 173-174 



xvii

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




22 

2 

10 

Topic 6: pp. 186-189 

Topic 6: pp. 177-178 





23 

2 

11 

Preparing to Teach: pp. 191--193 


Topic 1: pp. 195-201 


Topic 1: pp.181-185 





24 

2 

11 

Topic 2: pp. 201-206 

Topic 2: pp. 191-194 



25 

2 

11 

Topic 3: pp. 206-209 

Topic 4: pp. 209-211 

Topic 3: pp. 197-198 

Topic 4: pp. 199-200 




26 

2 

11 

Topic 5: pp. 211-213 

Topic 6: pp. 213-218 

Topic 5: pp. 203-204 

Topic 6: pp. 205-208 




27 

2 

11 

Topic 7: pp. 219-226 

Topic 7: pp. 211-216 



28 

2 

11 

Topic 8: pp. 226-230 

Topic 8: pp. 219-221 



29 

2 

12 



Topic 1: pp. 236-239 


Topic 1: pp. 226-228 




30 

2 

12 

Topic 2: pp. 239-243 

Topic 3: pp. 243-246 

Topic 2: pp. 231-233 

Topic 3: pp. 234-235 



xviii

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




31 

2 

12 

Topic 4: pp. 246-251 

Topic 4: pp. 239-242 






32 

2 

12 

Topic 5: pp. 251-255 

Topic 5: pp. 247-250 



33 

2 

12 

Topic 6: pp. 255-262 

Topic 6: pp. 253-257 


Group Activities: TM p. 233-234 

34 

2 

12 

Topic 7: pp. 262-266 

Topic 7: pp. 261-264 



35 

2 

13 


Before Getting Started: pp. 269-270 


Topic 1: pp. 272-277 

Before Getting Started: p. 267 


Topic 1: pp. 268-272 






36 

2 

13 

Topic 2: pp. 277-286 

Topic 2: pp. 277-282 






37 

2 

13 

Topic 3: pp. 286-289 

Topic 4: pp. 289-294 

Topic 3: pp. 287-288 

Topic 4: pp. 289-291 




38 

2 

13 

Topic 5: pp. 294-297 

Topic 5: pp. 295-296 




39 

2 

14 



Topic 1: pp. 303-306 


Topic 1: pp. 299-302 



xix

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




40 

2 

14 

Topic 2: pp. 307-311 

Topic 2: pp. 305-308 





41 

2 

14 

Topic 3: pp. 311-315 

Topic 3: pp.311-313 



Group Activities: TM p. 300-301 

42 

2 

14 

Topic 4: pp. 315-319 

Topic 4: pp. 317-320 





43 

2 

15 



Topic 1: pp. 324-328 


Topic 1: pp. 325-327 





44 

2 

15 

Topic 2: pp. 328-334 

Topic 2: pp. 333-338 





45 

2 

15 

Topic 3: pp. 334-343 

Topic 3: pp. 343-350 



46 

2 

15 

Topic 4: pp. 343-346 

Topic 5: pp. 347-352 

Topic 4: pp. 353-354 

Topic 5: pp. 355-357 






47 

2 

16 



Topic 1: pp. 358-363 


Topic 1: pp. 364-369 



48 

2 

16 

Topic 2: pp. 363-369 

Topic 2: pp. 373-376 



xx

DAY 

UNIT 

LESSON 




49 

2 

16 

Topic 3: pp. 370-376 

Topic 3: pp. 379-383 




50 

2 

16 

Topic 4: pp. 377-383 

Topic 4: pp. 389-392 

Lesson 16 Memory Verses: p. 392 




xxi

xxii

LESSON 1 

what is a worldview? why does it matter? 

The Definition and Characteristics of a Worldview 

Introduction 

PREPARING TO TEACH 

All people observe, interpret, and respond to life and the world based on deeply 

held beliefs or presuppositions. These beliefs are so internalized they are seldom 

thought about, much less analyzed. They are like eye glasses in that they are seldom 

if ever thought about by those who wear them, yet they bring visual objects in the 

world into focus. In the same sense, our presuppositions interpret or bring the world 

into a particular focus. How we see or perceive the world in turn gives rise to our 

values and ultimately to our choices and actions. 

The set of complex, deeply held (and diverse) beliefs by which people interpret life 

and the world and that in turn determine their behavior is called a worldview. When 

we observe cultures and human behaviors around the world we see that people do 

not all embrace the same worldview. People do not see the world and the various 

aspects of reality in the same way. People see life and the world differently because 

their deeply held beliefs or presuppositions are not all the same. Throughout the 

span of history, divergent and deeply held worldviews have led not only to diverse 

cultures, but also to cultural conflict within and between nations and conflict between 

individuals within nations. 

Lesson 1 introduces students to the concept of worldview and the powerful role 

worldviews play in their lives. They will learn the essential questions all worldviews 

ask and why truthful answers to these questions are of such vital importance. 

Throughout the lessons of A World of Worldviews, students will explore the diversity 

of beliefs among the major and most influential worldviews. They will see that 

worldviews shape individual behaviors as well as the corporate behaviors of nations. 

In essence, they will come to understand that worldviews matter a great deal and 

that ideas do, indeed, have consequences. 

Teacher’s Notes 

Suggested timetable for 

Lesson 1: 4 days 

See Syllabus, p. xv 

Teacher Manual and Student 

Worktext pages to cover each 

day are noted within each 

lesson. 

Suggestions for Teaching 

1. Get the big picture of the 

lesson by surveying its major 

topics. 

2. Refer to the Syllabus for a 

suggested timetable for each 

topic within the lesson. 

3. Read the background information 

for each topic in the 

lesson. 

4. Select visual aids, demonstrations, 

discussion questions, and 

any worktext activities you wish 

to use to develop the concepts of 

each topic. Feel free to use some 

or all of the material suggested 

in the Teacher Manual and/or 

develop your own material. 

Remember: A teacher manual 

is only a guide to help you teach 

creatively in response to your 

particular setting and the needs 

of your students. 

lesson 1 Memory Verse 

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, 

which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather 

than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 

Objectives 

• Students will study optical illusions to see how people's visual perceptions differ 

as an introduction to the different ways people perceive the meaning of life and 

the world. 

The World of Worldviews 

1

Unit 1 Lesson 1 


• Students will identify five major categories of questions people ask and beliefs 

they hold regarding their interpretation of life and the world. 

• Students will identify the relationship between beliefs and behaviors and incorporate 

the relationship into a definition of worldview. 

• Students will identify the major means by which people acquire their worldviews. 

• Students will explain why worldviews are difficult to articulate and difficult to 

change. 

• Students will identify three reasons why worldviews matter. 

• Students will identify four major influences that consciously and unconsciously 

affect their worldview and give examples of each. 

Materials 

Teacher Made or Procured 

Getting Started: Two or three pairs of inexpensive plastic sunglasses, 

each with different colored lenses 

Topic 5: Small yellow pound cake or miniature cup cakes 

Blackline Masters (Photocopy only. Do not cut or use originals in class.) 

Lesson 1 Memory Verse Colossians 2:8 

Definition 1a 

Worldview: The set of beliefs through which we 

view and interpret life and the world and that 

guides our choices and behaviors 

Select from the worktext activities 

suggested here or create 

your own to support the topics 

and concepts developed in the 

lesson. 

Consider spending time in creative 

group activities and discussions 

in addition to independent 

worktext activities. 

Some worktext activities may be 

suitable for individual assessment 

of student comprehension 

and application of lesson 

concepts. 

A Student Worktext Key is 

provided in a separate spiral 

binder. 

comprehension and application Activities 

Student Worktext Activities for Independent Work and Review 

Getting Started 



Topics 1, 2, and 3 




Topics 4 and 5 



Topic 6 




2 The World of Worldviews

What Is a Worldview? Why Does It Matter? 

Group Activity 

Worldviews in Advertising: Display several advertisements that promote 

various products (with discretion). Have students identify what each ad 

is appealing to in order to sell the product. Have them identify values and 

attitudes portrayed in the ads. Have them give reasons for agreeing or 

disagreeing with the values and attitudes portrayed. 


Group Discussions 

Cultural Influences: Have students discuss the impact on their lives of TV, 

films, internet web sites, music, and various kinds of printed materials. 

Have them identify specific influences (i.e., sports teams, music groups, 

movies, books, etc.) and share whether these influences have been positive 

or negative. 

The Big Questions: Review and discuss the major categories of questions 

related to all worldviews. Have students identify, if they are able, how they 

have come to acquire the beliefs they hold in each category. 

about the student worktext 

The Student Worktext for Level 6 is designed to be used in tandem with teacher 

directed instruction. Text from the Student Worktext is included in the Teacher Manual 

and is printed in color to distinguish it from teacher material, which is printed in black. 

Keep in mind that worktext text and pictures in the Teacher Manual do not appear 

exactly as they do in the Student Worktext. Thumbnail pages are exact replicas. 

Suggested discussion questions are highlighted within a tinted box. 

TEACHING THE LESSON 

DAY 1 (Syllabus Day 1) 

Teacher Manual: pp. 3-9 Student Worktext: pp. 1-8 

getting started—Looking at the world 

Background for the Teacher 

A common analogy for a worldview is a pair of glasses. People's beliefs and 

presuppositions are like a pair of glasses through which they see life and the world. 

Their "belief glasses" help them make sense of life and the world and determine their 

behavior. Just as a correct lens prescription is essential to seeing the physical world 

clearly and navigating safely through it, so, too, correct beliefs about all aspects of 

reality are essential for understanding life and the world and responding correctly. 

Although people who wear only rose-colored glasses may insist on and defend their 

belief that everything in the world has a rosy tint, their perception of the colorful 

diversity of the world would be incorrect. And while people with less than 20/20 

vision may insist on and defend their belief that the world is actually fuzzy, they, 

too, would be incorrect. In order to see the shapes and colors of the world correctly, 

people must have 20/20 vision and remove their tinted glasses. 


3



Most people in all cultures see the physical world correctly. There is little argument 

that a banana is a banana and that its peel is yellow when ripe. But people striving 

to make sense of the world and their lives probe more subjective questions about 

reality than what a banana looks like. They probe for answers to questions about 

God, the cosmos, humanity, truth, and moral and aesthetic values. They strive to 

understand how all dimensions of life and the cosmos and God (if they believe in 

God) interrelate. The core beliefs and presuppositions they come to hold deeply 

and usually unconsciously become the pair of glasses through which they interpret 

life and the world around them. How they interpret life and the world around them 

in turn determines their choices and resulting behaviors. 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT p. 1) 

1 

UNIT 1 

WHAT IN THE WORLD 

IS A WORLDVIEW? 

Have students turn to the Unit 1 title page (SWT p. 1). Have them study the title 

and icon for Unit 1. Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. 

Suggested Discussion Questions: 


1 

What kind of view of the world might the man in the picture have? 

Could another person standing on the same rock and looking in the 

same direction get a different view of the world? How? 

What kind of view might a person standing at the bottom of the rock 

and looking in the same direction have? 

Why can people looking in the same direction at the same world see 

it differently? 

What in the world do you think a worldview is? 

Explain that Unit 1 explores the answer to the last question. 

LESSON 1 



Getting Started--Looking at the World 

Optical Illusions: People often don’t see or un- 

Did everyone see a young girl first? Or did everyone 

see an old lady first? Can you now see both? 

derstand things the same way others do. Even 

when two people are looking at exactly the same What had to happen before you could see both 

thing, each one may see it differently. For example, a 

young girl and an old lady? Did someone have 

look at Picture 1 below. What is the first thing you to 

help you see both? 

see? On the line under the picture, write what you 

see first. 

Repeat this activity by looking at Picture 2 below. 

On the line under the picture, write what you see 

first. r 

1 

2 

2 

 

Have students turn to Getting Started (SWT p. 2). Have them read the first 

paragraph of Optical Illusions and identify what they see first in Picture 1. 

Optical Illusions: People often don’t see or understand things the same way 

others do. Even when two people are looking at exactly the same thing, each 

one may see it differently. For example, look at Picture 1 below. What is the first 

thing you see? On the line under the picture, write what you see first. 

Next, discuss the picture to find out what your 

classmates saw first. Write their responses and the 

number of each response on the lines below. What My Classmates Saw First Number 

__________________________ 

_______ 

What My Classmates Saw First Number 

__________________________ 

_______ 

__________________________ _______ 

__________________________ _______ As 

you can see from this activity, our eyes often 

play tricks on us. Pictures like the ones above are 

2 The World of Worldviews 

 

Help students tally the class responses to the first picture. 

Next, discuss the picture to find out what your classmates saw 

first. Write their responses and the number of each response on 

the lines below. 

 

What My Classmates Saw First 

__________________________ 

__________________________ 

Number 

_______ 

_______ 



 

The following questions are in the SWT. Use these or create your own. 

Did everyone see a young girl first? Or did everyone see an old lady first? Can 

you now see both? What had to happen before you could see both a young girl 

and an old lady? Did someone have to help you see both? 

Have students identify what they see first in Picture 2, and then tally the class 

responses. 


Optical Illusions: People often don’t see or understand 

things the same way others do. Even 

when two people are looking at exactly the same 

thing, each one may see it differently. For example, 

look at Picture 1 below. What is the fi rst thing you 

see? On the line under the picture, write what you 

see fi rst. 

LESSON 1 



Getting Started--Looking at the World 

Did everyone see a young girl first? Or did everyone 

see an old lady first? Can you now see both? 

What had to happen before you could see both 

a 

young girl and an old lady? Did someone have 

to 

help you see both? 

Repeat this activity by looking at Picture 2 below. 

On the line under the picture, write what you see 

first. r 

2 

1 

 

Repeat this activity by looking at Picture 2 below. On the line under 

the picture, write what you see first. 

2 

Next, discuss the picture to fi nd out what your 

classmates saw first. Write their responses and the 


Number 

number of each response on the lines below. 


__________________________ 

Number 

_______ 


__________________________ 

__________________________ 

Number 

_______ 

_______ 

__________________________ 

_______ 

As 

you can see from this activity, our eyes often 

play tricks on us. Pictures like the ones above are 

 

__________________________ 

__________________________ 

_______ 

_______ 


Have students read the rest of Optical Illusions and discuss as needed (SWT 

pp. 2-3). 

 

As you can see from this activity, our eyes sometimes play tricks on us. Pictures 

like the ones above are called optical illusions. We can see them in more than 

one way, depending on how our eyes focus on the picture. In the case of optical 

illusions, the object one person sees is just as right as the object another 

person sees. 

 

Have students read A World of a Different Color (SWT p. 3). 

A World of a Different Color: Optical illusions are fun to look at. Even though 

some see one thing and others see something else, everyone can agree to 

disagree since what each person sees is right. However, there are ways of 

looking at things in different ways that are not optical illusions. In these cases, 

how a person sees and describes something may be right, or it may be completely 

wrong. 

Imagine, for example, people who always wear only green, yellow, 

or pink sunglasses. Do they see the world the same way 

you see it? How do they describe the world they see? 

3 


called optical illusions. We can see them in more 

is filled with many beautiful colors. 

than one way, depending on how our eyes focus 

on the picture. In the case of optical illusions, 

A World Out of Focus: Have you ever had an 

the object one person sees is just as right as the 

eye exam? Were you able to read all the letters 

object another person sees. 

on 

the eye chart, or 

were some blurry or 

A World of a Different Color: Optical illusions 

out of focus? Did your 

are fun to look at. Even though some see one 

eye exam reveal that 

thing and others see something else, everyone 

you needed glasses? 

can agree to disagree since what each person If so, do your glasses 

sees is right. However, there are ways of looking 

now bring everything 

at things in different ways that are not optical il- 

you see into focus? 

lusions. In these cases, how a person sees and 

describes something may be right, or it may be 

Until people who 

completely wrong. 

need glasses wear 

them, they don’t real- 

Imagine, for example, 

ize 

they’re seeing the 

people who always wear 

world out of focus. But 

only green, yellow, or 

after they get their 

pink sun glasses. Do 

first pair, they are likely to exclaim, “Wow! I didn’t 

they see the world the 

know everything in the world was so sharp and 

same way you see it? If 

clear. Now I’m seeing the beautiful world as God 

so, how do they describe 

created it!” 

it? 

Making Sense of Life and the World: Most 

Now think about people people see the physical world correctly. Without 

who wear clear eye glasses 

or who have perfect distinguish clearly between people and horses, 

colored glasses and with good vision, they see and 

vision and don’t wear mountains and prairies, trees and flowers, and 

glasses at all. Do they see rivers and lakes. And they can accurately describe 

the world the same way the colors of a rainbow. But making sense of life 

you see it? If so, how do they describe it? and the world we live in involves much more than 

being able to see and describe everything in the 

Whose description of the real world is correct--the physical world correctly. Making sense of life and 

people wearing colored glasses or the people the world requires finding answers to questions 

wearing clear glasses or no glasses? Why? much more difficult and important than “What color 

is a pine tree, and what does one look like?” T o 

Even though the people wearing colored glasses make sense of life and the world, people want 

see the same world as the people wearing clear 

and need to know answers to many questions 

glasses or no glasses, they don’t see the world 

like the ones on the next page. As you read each 

with all of its true colors. They see the world and 

question, think about what you believe is the true 

everything in it as green, yellow, or pink. Not until 

answer. 

they take off their colored glasses will they see the 

truth about the real world--the truth that the world 

Now think about people who wear clear eye glasses or who have 

perfect vision and don’t wear glasses at all. Do they see the world 

the same way you see it? If so, how do they describe it? 


3 

Whose description of the real world is correct—the people wearing colored 

glasses or the people wearing clear glasses or no glasses? Why? 

Even though the people wearing colored glasses see the same world as the 

people wearing clear glasses or no glasses, they don’t see the world with its 

true colors. They see the world and everything in it as green, yellow, or pink. 

Not until they take off their colored glasses will they see the truth about the real 


5



world—the truth that the world is filled with many beautiful colors. 

DISPLAY pairs of sunglasses with different colored lenses. Allow students to 

try on different pairs and observe things inside the room and outside through 

the windows. 


Which pair of sunglasses did you prefer looking through? Why? 

Through which pair of glasses did you see things inside the room 

and outside as they really are? 

Which do you prefer—seeing the world through colored glasses or 

with no glasses? Why? 

If a friend of yours wore dark green sunglasses all the time, do you 

think you could convince him or her that the world was full of different 

colors? Why? Why not? 

What would have to happen for your friend wearing dark green sunglasses 

to see the real world of multiple colors? 

3 


Have students read A World Out of Focus (SWT p. 3). 

called optical illusions. We can see them in more 

is filled with many beautiful colors. 

than one way, depending on how our eyes focus 

on the picture. In the case of optical illusions, 

A World Out of Focus: Have you ever had an 

the object one person sees is just as right as the 

eye exam? Were you able to read all the letters 

object another person sees. 

on 

the eye chart, or 

were some blurry or 

A World of a Different Color: Optical illusions 

out of focus? Did your 

are fun to look at. Even though some see one 

eye exam reveal that 

thing and others see something else, everyone 

you needed glasses? 

can agree to disagree since what each person If so, do your glasses 

sees is right. However, there are ways of looking 

now bring everything 

at things in different ways that are not optical il- 

you see into focus? 

lusions. In these cases, how a person sees and 

describes something may be right, or it may be 

Until people who 

completely wrong. 

need glasses wear 

them, they don’t real- 

Imagine, for example, 

ize 

they’re seeing the 

people who always wear 

world out of focus. But 

only green, yellow, or 

after they get their 

pink sun glasses. Do 

first pair, they are likely to exclaim, “Wow! I didn’t 

they see the world the 

know everything in the world was so sharp and 

same way you see it? If 

clear. Now I’m seeing the beautiful world as God 

so, how do they describe 

created it!” 

it? 

Making Sense of Life and the World: Most 

Now think about people 

people see the physical world correctly. Without 

who wear clear eye glasses 

or who have perfect distinguish clearly between people and horses, 

colored glasses and with good vision, they see and 

vision and don’t wear mountains and prairies, trees and fl owers, and 

glasses at all. Do they see rivers and lakes. And they can accurately describe 

the world the same way the colors of a rainbow. But making sense of life 

you see it? If so, how do they describe it? and the world we live in involves much more than 

being able to see and describe everything in the 

Whose description of the real world is correct--the 

physical world correctly. Making sense of life and 

people wearing colored glasses or the people 

the world requires finding answers to questions 

wearing clear glasses or no glasses? Why? 

much more difficult and important than “What color 

is 

a pine tree, and what does one look like?” T o 

Even though the people wearing colored glasses 

make sense of life and the world, people want 

see the same world as the people wearing clear 

and need to know answers to many questions 

glasses or no glasses, they don’t see the world 

like the ones on the next page. As you read each 

with all of its true colors. They see the world and 

question, think about what you believe is the true 

everything in it as green, yellow, or pink. Not until 

answer. 

they take off their colored glasses will they see the 

truth about the real world--the truth that the world 


3 

 

A World Out of Focus: Have you ever had an eye exam? Were you able to 

read all the letters on the eye chart, or were some blurry or out of focus? Did 

your eye exam reveal that you needed glasses? If so, do your glasses now 

bring everything you see into focus? 

Until people who need glasses wear them, they don’t realize they’re seeing the 

world out of focus. But after they get their first pair, they are likely to exclaim, 

“Wow! I didn’t know everything in the world was so sharp and clear. Now I’m 

seeing the beautiful world as God created it!” 

Lead a discussion about eye exams and vision correction. 


How many of you have had an eye exam? Why? 

What did the eye doctor do? What did he or she find out about your eyes? 

How can our vision be corrected if necessary? 

Would anyone who wears glasses like to share how you saw the 

world before you began wearing glasses or contacts and afterward? 

Do all people see everything in the world clearly in focus? Why not? 

What would have to happen so that all people in the world could see 

everything in it as clearly as it really is? 

 

Have students read Making Sense of Life and the World (SWT pp. 3-4). 

Making Sense of Life and the World: Most people see the physical world 

correctly. Without colored glasses and with good vision, they see and distinguish 

clearly between people and horses, mountains and prairies, trees and 

flowers, and rivers and lakes. And they can accurately describe the colors of a 

rainbow. But making sense of life and the world we live in involves much more 



than being able to see and describe everything in the physical world correctly. 

Making sense of life and the world requires finding answers to questions much 

more difficult and important than “What color is a pine tree, and what does one 

look like?” To make sense of life and the world, people want and need to know 

answers to many questions like the ones on the next page. As you read each 

question, think about what you believe is the true answer. 


Questions About God 

Does God exist? 

If God exists, what is He like? 

Can I have a relationship with God? 

Do I have a responsibility to God? 

Questions About the Universe 

Where did the universe come from? 

Has it always existed? 

Will it always exist? 

Where did our planet Earth come from? 

Why does the earth experience natural disasters? 

Lesson 1 








Has the universe always existed? 

Will the universe always exist? 


Why does the universe experience natural 

disasters? 

Questions About People 

Where did we come from? 

Why are we here? 

Why do we have to die? 

What happens to us after we die? 

What is our responsibility and relationship 

to the earth? 

Questions About Truth 

Is there such a thing as truth? 

How can I know if something is true or not? 

Questions About Right and Wrong 

Are there such things as right and 

wrong? 

What is right? What is wrong? 

Why is there so much evil in the world? 

Are there solutions to all the problems and 

evil in the world? 

Different Ways of Viewing the World: Imagine 

that people’s beliefs about the correct answers to 

questions about life and the world are like a pair 

of glasses. We could call these glasses “belief 

glasses.” People look at their lives and the world 

through their “belief glasses,” trying to bring everything 

into focus to make sense of it. For example, 

suppose some people’s belief glasses include the 

idea that God does not exist. How do you think 

they would answer the question Where did the 

universe come from? How might they answer the 

questions Where did I come from? and Why am I 

here? Would their answers be the same as your 

answers? How would your belief glasses differ 

from theirs? How would your answers to these 

questions differ from theirs? 

All people wear a 

pair of “belief glasses” 

to help them 

make sense of their 

lives and the world. If 

their beliefs are true, 

then the glasses they 

wear are like clear 

ones that provide a 

focused or true view 

of life and the world. 

But if their beliefs are 

not true or only partly 

true, the glasses 

they wear are like 

colored or broken ones. These belief glasses, of 

course, give people only a blurry or untrue view 


What kind of belief glasses are you wearing? Are 

your lenses perfectly clear? Or are you wearing 

colored glasses or even broken ones? Are the 

beliefs you hold about life and the world true? Do 

you see the world in focus as it truly is? 

Exploring the World of Beliefs: This year you 

will explore some of the beliefs that people hold 

about life and the world. You will study how people’s 

beliefs and views of the world differ. And you will 

find out why different beliefs lead people to behave 

and make choices about life in different ways. Most 

importantly, you will compare what people believe 

is true about life and the world with what God says 

is true. For it is God’s truth as He reveals it to us 

in His Word, the Bible, that provides us with the 

perfect pair of belief glasses for rightly viewing, 

understanding, and living in the world. 


4 


From where did we come? 




What is our responsibility and relationship to the earth? 





Are there such things as right and wrong? 



Are there solutions to all the problems and evil in the world? 

Before discussing the questions in each category, lead a discussion related to 

the major categories of questions. 


Do you think most people agree or disagree about what they see 

when they look at the physical world? Why? Why not? 

What five major categories of questions do all people ask as they try 

to make sense of life and the world? 

Do you think all people answer the questions in these five categories 


7



in the same way? Why? Why not? 

Choose and discuss as many questions from each category as time allows. 

Have students listen to the responses of classmates in order to identify the 

spectrum of beliefs and/or understanding. Encourage students to raise other 

questions related to each category. 

Explain that biblical and unbiblical answers to these questions will be explored 

throughout the units of study in A World of Worldviews. 

Lesson 1 

















to help them 


Where did our planet Earth come from? make sense of their 

Why does the universe experience natural lives and the world. If 

disasters? 













What is our responsibility and relationship not true or only partly 

to the earth? 











Are there such things as right and your lenses perfectly clear? Or are you wearing 

wrong? 























is 

true about life and the world with what God says 



idea that God does not exist. How do you think perfect pair of belief glasses for rightly viewing, 

they would answer the question Where did the understanding, and living in the world. 


4 

 

Have students read Different Ways of Viewing the World (SWT p. 4). Have them 

think about how they would answer the questions raised in the reading. Discuss 

the questions as a class after students complete the reading. 

Different Ways of Viewing the World: Imagine that people’s beliefs about the 

correct answers to questions about life and the world are like a pair of glasses. 

We could call these glasses “belief glasses.” People look at their lives and the 

world through their “belief glasses,” trying to bring everything into focus to make 

sense of it. For example, suppose some people’s belief glasses include the 

idea that God does not exist. How do you think they would answer the question 

Where did the universe come from? How might they answer the questions 

Where did I come from? and Why am I here? Would their answers be the same 

as your answers? How would your belief glasses differ from theirs? How would 

your answers to these questions differ from theirs? 

All people wear a pair of “belief glasses” to help them make sense of their lives 

and the world. If their beliefs are true, then the glasses they 

wear are like clear ones that provide a focused or true view of 

life and the world. But if their beliefs are not true or only partly 

true, the glasses they wear are like colored or broken ones. 

These belief glasses, of course, give people only a blurry or 

untrue view of life and the world. 

What kind of belief glasses are you wearing? Are your lenses 

perfectly clear? Or are you wearing colored glasses or even 

broken ones? Are the beliefs you hold about life and the world 

true? Do you see the world in focus as it truly is? 


What do we mean when we say that all people try to make sense of 

the world by looking at it through a pair of belief glasses? 

Do all people wear the same kind of belief glasses? 

If someone's beliefs include the idea that God does not exist, how 

might they answer the questions "Where did the earth come from?" 

"Where did I come from?" and "Why am I here?" 

How would your answers to these three questions differ from those 

of someone who does not believe in God? 

In order to see and understand life and the world correctly, what kind 

of belief glasses do people need? 



How do you think the boy in the picture on page 4 sees and understands 

life and the world? 


What kind of belief glasses do you think you're wearing? 

Do you think the way you see and interpret life and the world is correct? 

Why? Why not? 

 

Have students read Exploring the World of Beliefs (SWT p. 4). Discuss briefly. 

Exploring the World of Beliefs: This year you will explore some of the beliefs 

that people hold about life and the world. You will study how people’s beliefs and 

views of the world differ. And you will find out why different beliefs lead people 

to behave and make choices about life in different ways. Most importantly, you 

will compare what people believe is true about life and the world with what 

God says is true. For it is God’s truth as He reveals it to us in His Word, the 

Bible, that provides us with the perfect pair of belief glasses for rightly viewing, 


If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign The Main Points (SWT pp. 

5-6) and Thinking About It (SWT pp. 7-8). If you prefer, create comprehension, 

application, and enrichment activities of your own. 

Lesson 1 











Why does the universe experience natural 

disasters? 






What is our responsibility and relationship 

to the earth? 





Are there such things as right and 

wrong? 













idea that God does not exist. How do you think 

they would answer the question Where did the 









to help them 

make sense of their 

lives and the world. If 








not true or only partly 







your lenses perfectly clear? Or are you wearing 











is true about life and the world with what God says 



perfect pair of belief glasses for rightly viewing, 


4 




topic 1. what is a worldview? 


Beliefs give birth to behaviors. People's beliefs are expressed in their individual 

choices and actions, which are collectively expressed as diverse global cultures 

and subcultures. Stated simply, beliefs have consequences. What and how people 

think determine how they perceive, develop, and live in the world around them. 

Writers and philosophers have used many words and phrases to identify the 

various systems or frameworks of beliefs that affect people's behavior, including 

life perspective, confessional vision, life convictions, lifeview, world and lifeview, 

system of values, and ideology. Some casually refer to a person's philosophy of 

life, but a philosophy is a highly academic way of thinking about life and the world 

and one that few people actually develop, much less articulate. For this study, we 

will use the term worldview, which is the term commonly used today to denote the 

set of beliefs that affect a person's behavior. 

As we will see later, the basic framework or system of foundational beliefs that 

people hold and through which they view life and the world is not a comprehensive 

accumulation of doctrines or philosophical positions. Rather, the core beliefs people 

hold are the most foundational, presuppositional beliefs from which they later discover 

and develop more comprehensive and well-defined beliefs. 


9



A worldview serves two primary functions in our lives. First, our worldview provides 

the framework through which we interpret and describe the world around us. 

Second, based on our interpretation of life and the world, our worldview prescribes 

or determines our system of values and subsequently our behaviors. For example, 

if a person does not believe in God as Creator, he or she will necessarily have to 

conclude that the universe is essentially eternal or it is a cosmic accident. This latter 

belief, if adhered to honestly, must lead to the conclusion that people, likewise, are 

part of the cosmic accident. And because accidents have neither purpose nor value, 

the person (again, if he or she is honest) must reach the conclusion that neither 

people nor the world around them has value. Thus without a belief in the value 

of life or the earth, this person may show little respect for either and may adopt a 

nihilistic view of all life, including his or her own. Interestingly, few people, including 

atheists, follow their presuppositions to such an ultimate conclusion. Nonetheless, 

ideas have consequences. Our worldview both interprets and assigns value to life 

and the world and in turn prescribes our choices and behavior toward both. 


Have students turn to Topic 1 (SWT p. 9). Have them read the title. Remind 

them of the Getting Started activity they completed earlier. Have them share 

their thoughts about what a worldview is. Write some of their answers on the 

board. Have students create a concise definition before they read Topic 1. After 

reading Topic 1, they will compare their definition with the definition in the SWT 

and revise accordingly. 

Have students read Beliefs and Behaviors (SWT p. 9). 

9 


Topic 1 

What Is a Worldview? 

Beliefs and Behavior: As you just learned, all peo- 

might have? Why might this person be pouring 

ple have beliefs about God, the universe, people, 

water into someone else’s hands? 

truth, and right and wrong. Our beliefs are important 

because they guide us in doing two things: 

First, our beliefs help us to interpret, explain, and 

define life and the world. In other words, we try to 

make sense of the world around us through what 

we believe about God, the universe, people, truth, 

and right and wrong. 

Now look at the picture below. What is happening? 

What beliefs about life and the world do you 

think the four children huddled in the group might 

have? Why might the group be rejecting the boy 

on 

the left? 

Second, what we believe about life and the world 

infl uences our actions or behavior. We make 

choices and behave in certain ways because of 

what we believe. For example, suppose someone 

believes that all people are not created equal as 

God’s image-bearers. He or she believes that 

some races or nationalities of people are better 

than others. How might that person choose to As 

you can you see from these two examples, 

behave toward someone of another race or from 

people’s b eliefs influence how they see the world 

another country? Now suppose someone else 

and live their lives. Their beliefs will influence them 

believes that all people are created equal as God’s to 

do good or to do wrong. 

image-bearers. How might that person choose to 

behave toward someone of another race or from 

Defining a Worldview: The set of beliefs through 

another country? 

which you view and interpret life and the world 

and that guide your choices and behaviors is 

Look at the picture at the top of the next column. 

called a worldview. Y o u will explore more fully 

What is happening? What beliefs about life and the 

the definition, characteristics, and main functions 

world do you think the person pouring the water 

of a worldview in the topics of this lesson. 


9 

 

Beliefs and Behavior: As you just learned, all people have beliefs about God, the 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. Our beliefs are important because 

they guide us in doing two things. 

First, our beliefs help us to interpret, explain, and 

define life and the world. In other words, we try to 

make sense of the world around us through what we 

believe about God, the universe, people, truth, and 

right and wrong. 

Second, what we believe about life and the world influences our actions or 

behavior. We make choices and behave in certain ways because of what we 

believe. For example, suppose someone believes that all people are not created 

equal as God’s image-bearers. He or she believes that some races or 

nationalities of people are better than others. How might that person choose 

to behave toward someone of another race or from another country? Now 

suppose someone else believes that all people are 

created equal as God’s image-bearers. How might 

that person choose to behave toward someone of 

another race or from another country? 

Look at the picture at the top of the next column. What 

is happening? What beliefs about life and the world 



do you think the person pouring the water might have? Why might this person 

be pouring water into someone else’s hands? 


Now look at the picture below. What is happening? What beliefs about life and 

the world do you think the four children huddled in the 

group might have? Why might the group be rejecting 

the boy on the left? 

As you can you see from these two examples, people’s 

beliefs influence how they see the world and live their 

lives. Their beliefs will influence them to do good or 

to do wrong. 

Lead a discussion to help students understand that people's beliefs about the 

origin and nature of human life determine how they behave toward others. 


What are the two most basic answers to the question, "How did human 

life on earth begin?" 

If the universe and human life on earth began from an accidental explosion 

in space, can there be a design and purpose for life? Why? 

Why not? 

If human life resulted from an accident with no plan or purpose, can 

human life have real value? Why? Why not? 

If human life is the result of an accident and has no value, how might 

people behave toward others? Why? 

Do people sometimes value certain kinds of people more than others? 

If so, give examples. 

Why do you think the four children in the picture are whispering 

about the child on the left? 

Are these children's beliefs determining their behavior? 

If the universe and human life on earth were designed and created 

by God, do you think they have a purpose? What do you think their 

purpose is? 

If human life is created by God and has a purpose, do you think it 

has value? Why? 

If human life has value, do you think all humans are equally valuable? 

Why? 

If all human life is valuable, how should people behave toward others? 

Why do you think one person is pouring water into the hands of 

another person? 

Are this person's beliefs determining his or her behavior? 

Have students review their definition of worldview on the board. Have them 

revise the definition based on the preceding discussion. 

Have students read Defining a Worldview (SWT p. 9). 


11


Lesson 1 


12 

think of some of the things you have been taught creating. If you’ve ever looked up at the stars on 

that are now a part of your worldview? 

a very dark night, what thoughts went through 

your mind? Did seeing the majesty of the universe 

Through Personal Study: You have developed or prompt your mind to ask diffi cult questions? If so, 

acquired many of your worldview beliefs simply what did you think and ask? Did this experience 

by reading and studying on your own. Of course, shape your beliefs about the creation or God or 

it’s important to know whether the things you even yourself? 

read are true or not. This is why it’s important to 

compare what you read and hear with what God’s Everyone acquires 

Word says or to ask trusted authorities if what you worldview beliefs 

have read or heard is really true. Can you think of through reasoning 

a book you have read that influenced your view and imagining, but 

of life and world? 

like beliefs acquired 

through all other 

means, they need 

to be compared to 

the truth of God’s 

Word. Sometimes 

our imaginations 

lead us to beliefs 

that are only fantasy 

or completely 

wrong. Still, reason- 

ing and imagining are important ways people 

Through reasoning and imagination: When God develop their worldviews. 

created people as His image-bearers, He gave 

them a mind capable of thinking, reasoning, and 

Worldview 

 

Defining a Worldview: The set of beliefs through which you view and interpret 

life and the world and that guides your choices and behaviors is called a 

worldview. You will explore more fully the definition, characteristics, and main 

functions of a worldview in the following topics of this lesson. 

Have students compare the class's definition of a worldview with the definition 

in the SWT. The definition is displayed at the end of Topic 3 (SWT p. 12). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 1a, Worldview: The set of beliefs through 

which we view and interpret life and the world and that guides our choices and 

behaviors. 

The set of beliefs through which we view and 

interpret life and the world and that guide our 

choices and behaviors 


topic 2. what kinds of beliefs 

are included in a worldview? 


It is essential to understand that by its very definition a worldview is an all-inclusive 

set of beliefs. It is a view toward every dimension of the world and reality, including 

God, the universe, humanity, truth, and values. People who wear glasses never look 

at only part of the world through them, nor do they wear a different prescription to 

view the world differently on different days. Their lenses are ground to allow a clear 

and consistent perception of reality every day and for each event. However, just as 

some lenses, especially tinted ones, do not reveal a true view of the physical world, 

neither do all worldviews truthfully interpret the meaning of reality as evidenced by 

the diverse behaviors of individuals and cultures. Nevertheless, whether Hindu, 

atheist, or Christian, a worldview includes core beliefs related to God, the universe, 

humanity, truth, and values, and these beliefs prescribe choices and actions. 


Have students turn to Topic 2 (SWT p. 10). Have them read the title. Ascertain 

students' understanding of the categories of beliefs common to all worldviews. 

Write some of their responses on the board. Have them read Topic 2 to verify 

and clarify their responses. 

Lesson 1 

Topic 2 

What Kinds of Beliefs Are Included in a Worldview? 

You know what it means to include or exclude 

The Universe: All people 

someone from a group. If your group of friends 

have beliefs about the universe. 

They have beliefs 

is exclusive, that means it rejects or excludes 

certain people from being a part of it. However, 

about where the universe 

if your group is inclusive, that means it includes 

came from, how old it is, 

everyone who would like to be a part of it. When 

and how long it will exist. 

we say that worldviews are inclusive, we mean 

They have beliefs about why 

that all worldviews include certain categories or 

the earth often experiences 

types of beliefs. Whether people are Christians, 

natural disasters. And they 

atheists, Muslims, or Hindus, each of their worldviews 

includes five categories of beliefs about the responsibility to the earth. 

have beliefs about their relationship with and 

world that affect their behaviors. 

Truth: All people have beliefs 

about truth. They have 

God: All people have beliefs 

about God. They may believe 

that there is only one 

and what is not. They have 

beliefs about what is true 

true God or that there are 

beliefs about where truth can 

many gods. Or they may not 

be found and how or if they 

believe that God or any gods 

can even know truth at all. 

exist at all. If they believe 

Some people believe that 

that God or gods do exist, 

what is true for one person 

then they also have specific may not be true for another and that people can 

beliefs about what God or the gods are like. And create their own truth. 

if they believe in God or many gods, then they 

have beliefs about what kind of relationship they 

Right and Wrong: All people 

may or may not have with them. 

have beliefs about what is 

right and what is wrong. 

People: All people have 

They have beliefs about 

beliefs about human beings. 

what is good and what is 


evil. They hold beliefs about 

where they come from and 

why evil exists in the world 

why they even exist at all. 

and what can be done to 

They have beliefs about how 

solve the problem of evil. 

they should live their lives 

and whether all people are As 

you already know, all people do not have the 

equal as individuals. And 

same beliefs about God, the universe, people, 

perhaps most important, people have beliefs about 

truth, and right and wrong. For this reason, people 

what happens to them after they die. If they believe do 

not behave or act in the same way. But regardless 

of what people believe or how they behave, 

in heaven or hell after death, their worldview may 

include beliefs about how to be saved. 

their worldviews are always inclusive. 


10 

 

You know what it means to include or exclude someone from a group. If your 

group of friends is exclusive, that means it rejects or excludes certain people 

from being a part of it. However, if your group is inclusive, that means it includes 

everyone who would like to be a part of it. When we say that worldviews are 

inclusive, we mean that all worldviews include certain categories or types of 

beliefs. Whether people are Christians, atheists, Muslims, or Hindus, each of 

their worldviews includes five categories of beliefs about the world that affect 

their behaviors. 

God: All people have beliefs about God. They may believe that there 

is only one true God or that there are many gods. Or they may not 

believe that God or any gods exist at all. If they believe that God or 

gods do exist, then they also have specific beliefs about what God 



or the gods are like. And if they believe in God or many gods, then they have 

beliefs about what kind of relationship they may or may not have with them. 


Lesson 1 

10 

People: All people have beliefs about human beings. They have beliefs about 

where they come from and why they even exist at all. They have beliefs about 

how they should live their lives and whether all people are equal 

as individuals. And perhaps most importantly, people have beliefs 

about what happens to them after they die. If they believe in heaven 

or hell after death, their worldview may include beliefs about how 

to be saved. 

The Universe: All people have beliefs about the universe. They 

have beliefs about where the universe came from, how old it is, 

and how long it will exist. They have beliefs about why the earth 

often experiences natural disasters. And they have beliefs about 

their relationship with and responsibility to the earth. 

Topic 2 

What Kinds of Beliefs Are Included in a Worldview? 

You know what it means to include or exclude 

someone from a group. If your group of friends 

is exclusive, that means it rejects or excludes 

certain people from being a part of it. However, 

if your group is inclusive, that means it includes 

everyone who would like to be a part of it. When 

we say that worldviews are inclusive, we mean 

that all worldviews include certain categories or 

types of beliefs. Whether people are Christians, 

atheists, Muslims, or Hindus, each of their worldviews 

includes fi ve categories of beliefs about the 

world that affect their behaviors. 

God: All people have beliefs 

about God. They may believe 

that there is only one 

true God or that there are 

many gods. Or they may not 

believe that God or any gods 

exist at all. If they believe 

that God or gods do exist, 

then they also have specifi c 

beliefs about what God or the gods are like. And 

if they believe in God or many gods, then they 

have beliefs about what kind of relationship they 

may or may not have with them. 

People: All people have 

beliefs about human beings. 


where they come from and 

why they even exist at all. 

They have beliefs about how 

they should live their lives 

and whether all people are 

equal as individuals. And 

perhaps most important, people have beliefs about 

what happens to them after they die. If they believe 

in heaven or hell after death, their worldview may 

include beliefs about how to be saved. 

The Universe: All people 

have beliefs about the universe. 

They have beliefs 

about where the universe 

came from, how old it is, 

and how long it will exist. 

They have beliefs about why 

the earth often experiences 

natural disasters. And they 

have beliefs about their relationship with and 

responsibility to the earth. 

Truth: All people have beliefs 

about truth. They have 

beliefs about what is true 

and what is not. They have 

beliefs about where truth can 

be found and how or if they 

can even know truth at all. 

Some people believe that 

what is true for one person 

may not be true for another and that people can 

create their own truth. 

Right and Wrong: All people 

have beliefs about what is 

right and what is wrong. 


what is good and what is 

evil. They hold beliefs about 

why evil exists in the world 

and what can be done to 

solve the problem of evil. 

As 

you already know, all people do not have the 

same beliefs about God, the universe, people, 

truth, and right and wrong. For this reason, people 

do 

not behave or act in the same way. But regardless 

of what people believe or how they behave, 

their worldviews are always inclusive. 


Truth: All people have beliefs about truth. They have beliefs about 

what is true and what is not. They have beliefs about where truth 

can be found and how or if they can even know truth at all. Some 

people believe that what is true for one person may not be true for 

another and that people can create their own truth. 

Right and Wrong: All people have beliefs about what is right and 

what is wrong. They have beliefs about what is good and what is 

evil. They hold beliefs about why evil exists in the world and what 

can be done to solve the problem of evil. 

As you already know, all people do not have the same beliefs about God, the 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. For this reason, people do not 

behave or act in the same way. But regardless of what people believe or how 

they behave, their worldviews are always inclusive. 


What do we mean when we say worldviews are inclusive? 

What five categories of beliefs do all worldviews include? 

Would an atheist's worldview include beliefs in all five categories? 

Would a Muslim's worldview include beliefs in all five categories? 

Continue the discussion by asking students to share some of the diverse beliefs 

people with different worldviews hold in each of the five categories. 

Encourage students to recall behaviors or customs they have observed or are 

aware of through media in cultures, subcultures, and individuals (dress, worship, 

art, government, laws, festivals/holidays, etc.). Have them identify specific worldview 

beliefs they think may contribute to or influence these diverse behaviors 

and customs. See Teacher's Notes at right for an example. 

Example: Cows roam the streets 

and villages of India because 

they are considered sinless and 

sacred. The highest Hindu gods 

are present "spiritually" within 

cows. They are worshiped as 

a means to achieving human 

perfection and because they 

provide essential products 

(excluding meat) for life. 


13



topic 3. how do we develop or Acquire our worldview? 


Worldviews are formed unconsciously. Though they may be refined and even changed 

through deliberate study at some point in life, we acquire our beliefs beginning at 

birth by absorbing the culture into which we are born. This cultural absorption or 

enculturation occurs through observing the traditions and behaviors of our culture. 

It occurs through direct and indirect teaching of cultural norms and values by others 

we perceive to be authorities in our lives. As we grow older, our perceptions or 

beliefs about our culture may be shaped by personal study and exploration as we 

delve into the riches of literature, history, the arts, the sciences, philosophy, religion, 

and other fields of knowledge. And with mental maturity, our way of viewing and 

understanding life and the world is shaped through reason and even imagination as 

we consciously process the vast amounts of information we have absorbed over time. 

However, we're not consciously aware that we even have a worldview much less 

how we acquired it until we systematically process and categorize what we believe 

about life and the world. In fact, we seldom think about what we believe is true and 

valuable until we encounter a different culture with different values and behaviors. 

When this happens, we may exhibit cultural pride or ethnocentrism, believing that 

our way of viewing life and the world is the most logical, and, therefore, the best. 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT pp. 11-12) 

Have students turn to Topic 3 (SWT pp. 11-12). Have them read the title. Ascertain 

students' understanding of how they acquired their worldview. Write 

some of their responses on the board. Have them read Topic 3 to verify and 

clarify their responses. 

11 


Topic 3 

How Do We Develop or Acquire Our Worldview? 

What if someone were to ask you, “So tell me, 

As you grew older, you were (and still are) like a 

when did you develop your worldview? You do sponge. You absorb many things about your world 

have one, don’t you?” How would you respond? just by living in it. And this happens without any 

If you are like most 

daily or official worldview lessons. Y o u may see 

people, you might stammer 

and stutter a bit, not 

Slowly, you begin to understand and form beliefs 

your parents pray or listen to them read the Bible. 

quite sure what to say. 

about God. You may see arguments and fi ghts 

Most people never had 

and come to understand that these behaviors are 

a “worldview lesson” 

harmful to everyone, even without anyone telling 

while sitting on their parents’ 

or grandparents’ 

observe and learn worldview lessons by watching 

you they are. In today’s technological world, you 

laps. Your mother never 

television and movies, by listening to music, and by 

said, “Now sit down and 

surfing the web on a computer--even though you 

listen. Today, I’m going 

may never hear anyone say the word “worldview.” 

to teach you your first 

In Topic 5, you will explore further how what you 

worldview lesson.” So 

observe and hear through the means of modern 

this raises another question: Just how do people technology influences the development of your 

acquire or develop a worldview--their beliefs about worldview. 

God, the universe, people, truth, and right and 

wrong? Let’s look at four primary ways. 

Through Teaching: Although you acquire much 

of your worldview just by living and observing life 

Through Observation: Infants don’t ask questions, and the world, you also learn it through teaching. 

but they’re still very interested in learning about Your parents, pastors, and teachers have taught 

their new world. They are very observant, taking you many things about understanding life and the 

in colors, sounds, shapes, smells, and textures. world. They have taught that some things are always 

right and that some things are always wrong. 

They hear language 

being spoken. They And although they may never have spoken the 

see laughter, anger, word “worldview,” much of what they have taught 

joy, and fear in those you has become part of your worldview. Can you 

around them. They begin 

to learn that some 

things are good or right 

to do because they are 

praised. And, of course, 

they begin to learn that 

some things are wrong 

or harmful because they 

experience discipline or 

painful consequences for doing them. 


11 

 

What if someone were to ask you, “So tell me, when did you develop your worldview? 

You do have one, don’t you?” How would you respond? If 

you are like most people, you might stammer and stutter a bit, 

not quite sure what to say. Most people never had a “worldview 

lesson” while sitting on their parents’ or grandparents’ laps. Your 

mother never said, “Now sit down and listen. Today, I’m going 

to teach you your first worldview lesson.” So this raises another 

question: Just how do people acquire or develop a worldview— 

their beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and 

wrong? Let’s look at four primary ways. 

Through Observation: Infants don’t ask questions, but they’re still very interested 

in learning about their new world. They are very observant, 

taking in colors, sounds, shapes, smells, and textures. They hear 

language being spoken. They see laughter, anger, joy, and fear 

in those around them. They begin to learn that some things are 

good or right to do because they are praised. And, of course, 

they begin to learn that some things are wrong or harmful because 

they experience discipline or painful consequences for 

doing them. 



As you grew older, you were (and still are) like a sponge. You absorb many things 

about your world just by living in it. And this happens without any daily or official 

worldview lessons. You may see your parents pray or listen to them read the 

Bible. Slowly, you begin to understand and form beliefs about God. You may see 

arguments and fights and come to understand that these behaviors are harmful 

to everyone, even without anyone telling you they are. In today’s technological 

world, you observe and learn worldview lessons by watching television and 

movies, by listening to music, and by surfing the web on a computer—even 

though you may never hear anyone say the word “worldview.” In Topic 5, you will 

explore further how what you observe and hear through the means of modern 

technology influences the development of your worldview. 


Through Teaching: Although you acquire much of your worldview just by living 

and observing life and the world, you also learn it through teaching. Your 

parents, pastors, and teachers have taught you many 

things about understanding life and the world. They have 

taught that some things are always right and that some 

things are always wrong. And although they may never 

have spoken the word “worldview,” much of what they 

have taught you has become part of your worldview. Can 

you think of some of the things you have been taught 


Through Personal Study: You have developed or acquired many of your 

worldview beliefs simply by reading and studying on 

your own. Of course, it’s important to know whether the 

things you read are true or not. This is why it’s important 

to compare what you read and hear with what God’s 

Word says or to ask trusted authorities if what you have 

read or heard is really true. Can you think of a book you 

have read that influenced your view of life and world? 

Through Reasoning and Imagination: When God created 

people as His image-bearers, He gave them minds capable of 

thinking, reasoning, and creating. If you’ve ever looked up at 

the stars on a very dark night, what thoughts went through your 

mind? Did seeing the majesty of the universe prompt your mind 

to ask difficult questions? If so, what did you think and ask? Did 

this experience shape your beliefs about the creation or God or 

even yourself? 

Lesson 1 

think of some of the things you have been taught 


Through Personal Study: You have developed or 

acquired many of your worldview beliefs simply 

by reading and studying on your own. Of course, 

it’s important to know whether the things you 

read are true or not. This is why it’s important to 

compare what you read and hear with what God’s 

Word says or to ask trusted authorities if what you 

have read or heard is really true. Can you think of 

a book you have read that infl uenced your view 

of life and world? 

Through reasoning and imagination: When God 

created people as His image-bearers, He gave 

them a mind capable of thinking, reasoning, and 

creating. If you’ve ever looked up at the stars on 

a very dark night, what thoughts went through 

your mind? Did seeing the majesty of the universe 

prompt your mind to ask difficult questions? If so, 

what did you think and ask? Did this experience 

shape your beliefs about the creation or God or 

even yourself? 

Everyone acquires 

worldview beliefs 

through reasoning 

and imagining, but 

like beliefs acquired 

through all other 

means, they need 

to be compared to 

the truth of God’s 

Word. Sometimes 

our imaginations 

lead us to beliefs 

that are only fantasy 

or completely 

wrong. Still, reason- 

ing and imagining are important ways people 

develop their worldviews. 

Worldview 

The set of beliefs through which we view and 

interpret life and the world and that guide our 

choices and behaviors 


12 

Everyone acquires worldview beliefs through reasoning and imagining, but 

like beliefs acquired through all other means, they need to be compared to the 

truth of God’s Word. Sometimes our imaginations lead us to beliefs that are 

only fantasy or completely wrong. Still, reasoning and imagining are important 

ways people develop their worldviews. 


Do you remember your parents or someone close to you announcing, 

"Today you're going to have your first worldview lesson"? Why not? 


15



How did you acquire your basic beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong? 

Have students think about and share some of the beliefs they have come to hold 

through observation, teaching, personal study, and reasoning and imagination. 

Have them share why they think their beliefs are true. Use the discussion to 

ascertain the similarities and differences in students' beliefs. Explain that Unit 

2, "The Biblical Christian Worldview," will help them determine whether the 

core beliefs they have acquired are in harmony with the truths of God's Word 

as revealed in Scripture. 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Thinking About It (SWT 

p. 13), The Main Points (SWT p. 14), and Writing About It (SWT pp. 15-16). 

If you prefer, create comprehension, application, and enrichment activities of 

your own. 



topic 4. are we aware of our worldview? 


Because worldviews are not systematically or formally developed, the beliefs 

through which we interpret life and the world and that determine our behaviors are 

not easily identifiable. The beliefs of a worldview are like the ingredients in a cake 

that are blended together so that none of them is individually distinguishable in the 

end product. We don't know what goes into a cake unless we read a recipe that 

lists the individual ingredients. Similarly, we don't know the specific ingredients in 

our worldview until we read a "worldview recipe." 

Unfortunately, identifying the ingredients in a cake is much easier than identifying 

the ingredients in a worldview. This is because we don't think categorically about 

what we believe. We don't separate our "God beliefs" from our "cosmos beliefs" from 

our "ethical beliefs," etc. Not until we construct a framework of worldview thinking 

are we able to systematize or categorize what we believe. Even then probing into 

what we believe is not easy. 

As we will see later, we seldom think about what we believe until we are confronted 

with a new situation or a choice we must make. Then in response to the new set of 

circumstances, we draw from our unconscious beliefs as we act, or in some cases, 

react. To illustrate how unconscious we are of our worldview, imagine you were 

born into and have always lived in a clean air environment in a remote mountain 

region of the planet. In this environment, you never think about the air being clean. 

It's just the way air is. It's not until you travel to a crowded city with air pollution that 

you realize the difference. Suddenly, what you took for granted and never thought 

about comes to the forefront of your thinking. You now know the difference between 

clean and dirty air, and you appreciate and want to return to and preserve your 

mountain air environment. Of course, the opposite would also be true of the city 



dwellers, who travel to the mountains for the first time. Suddenly, they are aware of 

a different environmental reality, one in which they most likely would prefer to live 

if they are honest with themselves. 



DISPLAY a small yellow pound cake. Cut the cake and give each student a 

small sample to taste. Lead a whimsical discussion about what each ingredient 

tastes like. 


Consider school policy and 

possible dietary restrictions of 

some children before using this 

demonstration. You might wish 

to find a gluten free product. 

What ingredients do you think went into this cake? 

How did you enjoy the sugar? The eggs? The milk? The butter? The flour? 

Why are these questions silly or nonsensical? 

Why can't you taste each individual ingredient in a cake? 

What would you need first if you wanted to bake a cake just like this one? 

 

Have students turn to Topic 4 (SWT p. 17). Have them read the title. Discuss 

to ascertain the extent of students' awareness of their worldview. Then have 

them read Topic 4 to find out how their worldview is like a cake. 

All people have a worldview—a set of beliefs that helps them understand life 

and the world and that influences how they act or behave. But if you were to 

ask someone, “Do you have a worldview?” or “Can you tell me about your 

worldview?” he or she would probably just stare at you with a puzzled look. 

And if someone had asked you these questions before you began studying this 

lesson, you probably would have responded the same way. But why? 

As you learned earlier, you don’t develop your worldview deliberately. You absorb 

your basic beliefs about life and the world by observing your family, your 

community, and the world around you. You develop your worldview from the 

teaching of others and by your own studying, reasoning, and imagining. But 

as your worldview is being shaped, you never stop and think, “Now, let’s see. 

This belief goes with my beliefs about God. And this belief goes with my beliefs 

about people. And this new belief goes with my beliefs about the universe. And 

all of these beliefs are part of my worldview!” In other words, although you have 

a worldview, you don’t consciously think about it as you go about your daily 

activities. Just as people who wear glasses or contacts don’t think or say, “I’m 

looking at the sunset through my glasses,” people don’t think or say, “I’m looking 

at the world through my worldview and I’m making choices each day because 

of my beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong.” 

17 


Topic 4 

Are We Aware of Our Worldview? 

All people have a worldview--a set of beliefs that 

helps them understand life and the world and that 

infl uences how they act or behave. But if you were 

to ask someone, “Do you have a worldview?” or 

“Can you tell me about your worldview?” he or she 

would probably just stare at you with a puzzled 

look. And if someone had asked you these questions 

before you began studying this lesson, you 

probably would have responded the same way. 

But why? 

As you learned earlier, you don’t develop your 

worldview deliberately. You absorb your basic 

Ingredients in a Cake 

beliefs about life and the world by observing your 

family, your community, and the world around you. 

1. _______________ 3. _______________ 

You develop your worldview from the teaching of 

others and by your own studying, reasoning, and 

2. _______________ 4. _______________ 

imagining. But as your worldview is being shaped, 

you never stop and think, “Now, let’s see. This 

5. _______________ 

belief goes with my beliefs about God. And this 

belief goes with my beliefs about people. And this 

new belief goes with my beliefs about the universe. After you gather the ingredients together, do you 

And all of these beliefs are part of my worldview!” know how to make a cake? First you measure each 

In other words, although you have a worldview, ingredient according to a recipe. Then you mix the 

you don’t consciously think about it as you go ingredients together to make a batter. Next you 

about your daily activities. Just as people who 

pour the batter into a baking pan and put it in the 

wear glasses or contacts don’t think or say, “I’m 

oven to bake. When 

looking at the sunset through my glasses,” people the 

cake is done, you 

don’t think or say, “I’m looking at the world through 

let it cool, slice it, and 

my worldview and I’m making choices each day enjoy! 

because of my beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong.” 

Now suppose you 

give slices of your 

Another way of illustrating the idea that you don’t 

freshly baked cake to 

consciously think about your worldview is to compare 

a worldview with a cake. People all over the 

some friends. As they 

take their first bite, 

world bake cakes. Most cakes contain at least fi ve 

would you expect 

basic ingredients. Look at the picture of ingredients 

them to say, “Wow! 

at the top of the next column. Identify and write the 

This is delicious. I just 

ingredients on the lines below the picture. 

love the flour. And the 


17 




world bake cakes. Most cakes contain at least five 





17



 

1. _______________ 2. _______________ 3. _______________ 

4. _______________ 5. _______________ 

17 

What Is a Worldview? Why Does It Matter? 

Topic 4 

Are We Aware of Our Worldview? 

All people have a worldview--a set of beliefs that 

helps them understand life and the world and that 

influences how they act or behave. But if you were 

to ask someone, “Do you have a worldview?” or 

“Can you tell me about your worldview?” he or she 

would probably just stare at you with a puzzled 

look. And if someone had asked you these questions 

before you began studying this lesson, you 

probably would have responded the same way. 

But why? 

After you gather the ingredients together, do you know how to make a cake? 

First you measure each ingredient according to a recipe. Then you mix the 

ingredients together to make a batter. Next you pour the batter 

into a baking pan and put it in the oven to bake. When the 

cake is done, you let it cool, slice it, and enjoy! 

As you learned earlier, you don’t develop your 

worldview deliberately. You absorb your basic 

beliefs about life and the world by observing your 

family, your community, and the world around you. 

You develop your worldview from the teaching of 

others and by your own studying, reasoning, and 

imagining. But as your worldview is being shaped, 

you never stop and think, “Now, let’s see. This 

belief goes with my beliefs about God. And this 

belief goes with my beliefs about people. And this 

new belief goes with my beliefs about the universe. 

And all of these beliefs are part of my worldview!” 

In other words, although you have a worldview, 

you don’t consciously think about it as you go 

about your daily activities. Just as people who 

wear glasses or contacts don’t think or say, “I’m 

looking at the sunset through my glasses,” people 

don’t think or say, “I’m looking at the world through 

my worldview and I’m making choices each day 

because of my beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong.” 




world bake cakes. Most cakes contain at least five 





Lesson 1 

Ingredients in a Cake 

1. _______________ 3. _______________ 

2. _______________ 4. _______________ 

5. _______________ 

After you gather the ingredients together, do you 

know how to make a cake? First you measure each 

ingredient according to a recipe. Then you mix the 

ingredients together to make a batter. Next you 

pour the batter into a baking pan and put it in the 

oven to bake. When 

the 

cake is done, you 

let it cool, slice it, and 

enjoy! 

Now suppose you 

give slices of your 

freshly baked cake to 

some friends. As they 

take their first bite, 

would you expect 

them to say, “Wow! 

This is delicious. I just 

love the flour. And the 

17 

eggs, well, they’re just fantastic. 

Can you see how a worldview 

I really like the taste of the milk. 

is somewhat like a cake? All 

And what kind of butter and sugar 

the beliefs of a worldview blend 

did you use? I’ve never tasted 

together to produce a particular 

anything like them!” Of course, no 

view of the world. People don’t 

one ever responds this way when 

think about the categories of 

eating a piece of cake. But why 

their beliefs every time they look 

not? It’s because they don’t taste 

at the world or before they act 

each ingredient by itself. All the 

in a certain way any more than 

ingredients have been blended 

they think about the ingredients 

together into a batter that when 

that make up the cake they are 

baked produces the cake with its 

eating. 

own unique taste and texture. 

But if you take time to analyze what goes into 

Now, if your friends want to bake a cake like yours your worldview, you’ll find that it’s also made up 

for themselves, what would they need? They would of ingredients--ingredients of beliefs. And like 

need the recipe that would tell them how much of cakes that people around the world make with 

each ingredient to use, how to mix the batter, and flour, sugar, butter, milk, and eggs, your worldview 

at what temperature and for how long the cake includes the ingredients of beliefs about God, the 

needs to bake. 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. 

Topic 5 

Does Our Worldview Ever Change? 

Changes: Think about some things that change. What do you see changing in the sets of pictures 

below and on the next page? Describe the change that each set of pictures represents. 

_______________________ _______________________ 

_______________________ _______________________ 

______________________ ______________________ 


18 

Now suppose you give slices of your freshly baked cake to some 

friends. As they take their first bite, would you expect them to 

say, “Wow! This is delicious. I just love the flour. And the eggs, 

well, they’re just fantastic. I really like the taste of the milk. And 

what kind of butter and sugar did you use? I’ve never tasted 

anything like them!” Of course, no one ever responds this way 

when eating a piece of cake. But why not? It’s because they don’t taste each 

ingredient by itself. All the ingredients have been blended together into a batter 

that when baked produces the cake with its own unique taste and texture. 

Now, if your friends want to bake a cake like yours for 

themselves, what would they need? They would need the 

recipe that would tell them how much of each ingredient 

to use, how to mix the batter, and at what temperature and 

for how long to bake the cake. 

Can you see how a worldview is like a cake in some ways? 

All the beliefs of a worldview blend together to produce a 

particular view of the world. People don’t think about the categories of their beliefs 

every time they look at the world or before they act in a certain way any more 

than they think about the ingredients that make up the cake they are eating. 

But if you take time to analyze what goes into your worldview, you’ll find that it’s 

also made up of ingredients—ingredients of beliefs. And like cakes that people 

around the world make with flour, sugar, butter, milk, and eggs, your worldview 

includes the ingredients of beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and 

right and wrong. 

Suggested Questions for Discussion: 

Why do you think you might get a puzzled look from someone if you 

asked, "Do you have a worldview?" or "Can you tell me about your 

worldview?" 

How is your worldview like a cake? 

What are the "ingredients" in your worldview (and everyone's worldview)? 

Why do you think it might be helpful to have a "worldview recipe?" 

Do you think you could give someone your "worldview recipe?" 



Have students share one or two beliefs in each category of "ingredients" in 

their worldview. (Review Topic 2 if necessary.) In Unit 2, "The Biblical Christian 

Worldview," students will see how the ingredients of their worldview align with 

Scripture. 


topic 5. does our worldview ever change? 


Worldviews are difficult to relinquish or change, indicating their almost innate 

nature. Formed unconsciously over years by observation, teaching, personal study, 

reasoning, and imagination, worldviews are deeply rooted within both individuals 

and cultures. However, when or if we find our worldview inadequate in explaining 

perceived or experienced realities of life, or when the values and beliefs that seem 

to hold our world together are suddenly or over time proven to be invalid, we may 

experience a deep and disturbing tearing of our emotions. When this happens, we 

must make a choice. One choice is to dig our heels in deeper and hold on to all 

facets of our worldview even against reason and our experience. Or we can choose 

to begin to release those aspects of our worldview that have proved invalid and 

allow them to change in accord with the truth of the reality we have encountered. 

Either choice is emotionally traumatic, confirming the powerful influence worldviews 

have in our lives. 

The fact that our worldview is developed in an imperfect world by imperfect people 

does not mean that it cannot give meaning to life. Nor does it mean that truth is 

relative. Rather, the fallibility of our worldview reveals that our capacity to interpret 

even revealed truth is not perfect. In fact, it would be erroneous if not presumptuous 

for even the most devout Christian who believes in the truthfulness of biblical 

revelation to declare that he or she has a perfect and complete grasp of all truth. 

Beliefs change even within the Christian worldview. Some who at one time thought 

they had a "corner on truth" have subsequently experienced painful upheavals as 

their unbiblical ideas were exposed and then relinquished when a more biblical 

understanding came to light through the illuminating work and grace of the Holy 

Spirit. 


 

Have students turn to Topic 5 (SWT pp. 18-20). Have them read the title. Discuss 

to ascertain whether or not students think worldviews can change. Then 

have them read Topic 5. 

Changes: Think about some things that change. What do you see changing 

in the sets of pictures below and on the next page? Describe the change that 

each set of pictures represents. 

Lesson 1 

eggs, well, they’re just fantastic. 

Can you see how a worldview 

I really like the taste of the milk. 

is somewhat like a cake? All 

And what kind of butter and sugar 

the beliefs of a worldview blend 

did you use? I’ve never tasted 

together to produce a particular 

anything like them!” Of course, no 

view of the world. People don’t 

one ever responds this way when 

think about the categories of 

eating a piece of cake. But why 

their beliefs every time they look 

not? It’s because they don’t taste 

at the world or before they act 

each ingredient by itself. All the 

in a certain way any more than 

ingredients have been blended 

they think about the ingredients 

together into a batter that when 

that make up the cake they are 

baked produces the cake with its 

eating. 

own unique taste and texture. 

But if you take time to analyze what goes into 

Now, if your friends want to bake a cake like yours your worldview, you’ll find that it’s also made up 

for themselves, what would they need? They would of ingredients--ingredients of beliefs. And like 

need the recipe that would tell them how much of cakes that people around the world make with 

each ingredient to use, how to mix the batter, and flour, sugar, butter, milk, and eggs, your worldview 

at what temperature and for how long the cake includes the ingredients of beliefs about God, the 

needs to bake. 


Topic 5 

Does Our Worldview Ever Change? 

Changes: Think about some things that change. What do you see changing in the sets of pictures 

below and on the next page? Describe the change that each set of pictures represents. 

18 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 



19



 

Now think about changes in your life. How have you changed since you were 

born? List some of ways you have changed. 

19 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 

Now think about changes in your life. How have 

you changed since you were born? List some of 

ways you have changed. 

Ways I Have Changed 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 

Think about some of the changes you’ve seen in 

the world during the ten or twelve years of your 

life. List some of ways the world has changed 

since you were born that you’ve observed or 

know about. 

Changes I Have Seen in the World 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 


Next, think about some of your beliefs about life 

and the world. Have you ever believed something 

that you now no longer believe? Has your understanding 

about something ever changed from 

when you were very young? Why did your beliefs 

or understanding change? Do you think they’ll 

ever change again? Why? List at least two of your 

beliefs or understandings that have changed. 

Changes in What I Believe or Understand 

_______________________ 

_______________________ 

______________________ 

Changing Worldviews: We learn new things 

throughout our lives. Through observing, teaching, 

studying, reasoning, and imagining, our worldview 

changes over time. This does not mean that truth 

changes. It means that our understanding of what 

is true and what is not true changes over time. All 

Christians grow in their understanding of God’s 

truth, and as they grow, their Christian worldview 

changes. As you study the subject of worldviews, 

you will find your own worldview changing--perhaps 

a little or perhaps a lot. 

We do not change 

our worldviews easily. 

We hold them 

deep within our 

hearts, even if we 

don’t think about 

them very often, if 

at all. For example, 

how easy would it 

be for you to change 

your beliefs about the existence of God or the 

truth that all people bear God’s image equally? 

How easy would it be for you to change your mind 

 

 

 

 

Ways I Have Changed 

(Have students list changes in their worktexts.) 

Think about some of the changes you’ve seen in the world during the ten or 

twelve years of your life. List some of ways the world has changed since you 

were born that you’ve observed or know about. 

Changes I Have Seen in the World 


Next, think about some of your beliefs about life and the world. Have you ever 

believed something that you now no longer believe? Has your understanding 

about something ever changed from when you were very young? Why did your 

beliefs or understanding change? Do you think they’ll ever change again? Why? 

List at least two of your beliefs or understandings that have changed. 


19 

 

 

Changes in What I Believe or Understand 


Changing Worldviews: We learn new things throughout our lives. Through 

observing, teaching, studying, reasoning, and imagining, our worldview changes 

over time. This does not mean that truth changes. It means that our understanding 

of what is true and what is not true changes over time. All Christians 

grow in their understanding of God’s truth, and as they grow, their Christian 

worldview changes. As you study the subject of worldviews, you will find your 

own worldview changing—perhaps a little or perhaps a lot. 

Lesson 1 

about the need to love and care for others? Would 

you accept as part of your worldview the belief 

that stealing and cheating are good behaviors? 

Why not? 

For people to change their worldview, they have 

to realize that what they believe about life and the 

world is not true. For example, if people from one 

race or nationality are taught that another race or 

nationality is inferior, they may treat people from 

the other race or nationality with little respect or 

even ignore them altogether. 

But suppose one day at work or school the prejudiced 

man or boy meets a man or boy of the race 

or nationality he’s learned to disrespect. Day after 

day, he observes the other person. He discovers 

that this person is intelligent. He has feelings 

and laughs and cries just like all people do. This 

person is friendly and does his work well. This 

person is part of a loving family with parents who 

love him and strive to teach him and provide for 

him. What do you think may begin to happen to 

the prejudiced person’s worldview? Why might it 

begin to change? 

When we realize that what we believe about life 

and the world does not really line up or agree with 

what we observe or know, we have to make one 

of 

two choices. Do you know what these choices 

are? In the example of prejudice against others, 

one choice we can make is to hold on to our 

prejudiced beliefs. We can choose to do this even 

though our worldview beliefs don’t agree with the 

truth we have come to know about people of other 

races. Another choice we can make is to admit that 

what we believe is wrong and change our beliefs. 

This is not an easy choice. It requires humility and 

a 

willingness to make changes in our worldview. 

And making changes in our worldview should lead 

to 

changes in our actions and behaviors. 

People want and need a worldview that lines up with 

or 

agrees with the truth they see about people and 

the world around them. Of course, some people 

choose not to accept the truth even when they 

see and understand it. This choice usually leads 

to 

disharmony in their minds and hearts. 


20 

We do not change our worldviews easily. We hold them deep 

within our hearts, even if we don’t think about them very often, 

if at all. For example, how easy would it be for you to change 

your beliefs about the existence of God or the truth that all 

people bear God’s image equally? How easy would it be for 

you to change your mind about the need to love and care for 

others? Would you accept as part of your worldview the belief that stealing and 

cheating are good behaviors? Why not? 

For people to change their worldview, they have to realize that what they believe 

about life and the world is not true. For example, if people from one race or 

nationality are taught that another race or nationality 

is inferior, they may treat people from the other race 

or nationality with little respect or even ignore them 

altogether. 


man or boy meets a man or boy of the race or nationality 

he’s learned to disrespect. Day after day, he observes 

the other person. He discovers that this person is intelligent. He has feelings 

and laughs and cries just like all people do. This person is friendly and does his 



work well. This person is part of a loving family with parents who love him and 

strive to teach him and provide for him. What do you think may begin to happen 

to the prejudiced person’s worldview? Why might it begin to change? 

When we realize that what we believe about life and the world does not really 

line up or agree with what we observe or know, we have to make one of two 

choices. Do you know what these choices are? In the example of prejudice 

against others, one choice we can make is to hold on to our prejudiced beliefs. 

We can choose to do this even though our worldview beliefs don’t agree with 

the truth we have come to know about people of other 



This is not an easy choice. It requires humility and a 

willingness to make changes in our worldview. And 

making changes in our worldview should lead to 


People want and need a worldview that lines up with or agrees with the truth 

they see about people and the world around them. Of course, some people 

choose not to accept the truth even when they see and understand it. This 

choice usually leads to disharmony in their minds and hearts. 


Lesson 1 

about the need to love and care for others? Would 

you accept as part of your worldview the belief 

that stealing and cheating are good behaviors? 

Why not? 

For people to change their worldview, they have 

to realize that what they believe about life and the 

world is not true. For example, if people from one 

race or nationality are taught that another race or 

nationality is inferior, they may treat people from 

the other race or nationality with little respect or 

even ignore them altogether. 


man or boy meets a man or boy of the race 

or nationality he’s learned to disrespect. Day after 

day, he observes the other person. He discovers 

that this person is intelligent. He has feelings 

and laughs and cries just like all people do. This 

person is friendly and does his work well. This 

person is part of a loving family with parents who 

love him and strive to teach him and provide for 

him. What do you think may begin to happen to 

the prejudiced person’s worldview? Why might it 

begin to change? 

When we realize that what we believe about life 

and the world does not really line up or agree with 

what we observe or know, we have to make one 

of 

two choices. Do you know what these choices 

are? In the example of prejudice against others, 

one choice we can make is to hold on to our 

prejudiced beliefs. We can choose to do this even 

though our worldview beliefs don’t agree with the 

truth we have come to know about people of other 



This is not an easy choice. It requires humility and 

a 

willingness to make changes in our worldview. 

And making changes in our worldview should lead 

to 


People want and need a worldview that lines up with 

or 

agrees with the truth they see about people and 

the world around them. Of course, some people 

choose not to accept the truth even when they 

see and understand it. This choice usually leads 

to 

disharmony in their minds and hearts. 


20 


In what ways do people change? 

In what ways have you changed? 

What kinds of things change in the world? 

What changes have you seen in the world during your lifetime? 

What changes, if any, have you experienced in your beliefs? 

Does a person's worldview ever change? Why? 

Is it easy for a person to change his or her worldview? Why? Why 

not? 

Give an example of something that could happen that would cause a 

person to begin to change his or her worldview. 

Imagine that one day a person realizes that something he has 

always believed about a certain race of people is not true. Does this 

mean that his or her behavior toward that race will change automatically? 

Why? Why not? 

Suppose a person learns the truth that all races are equal, but 

chooses not to change his or her behavior. What might such a choice 

cause in that person's life? Why? 

Do you think everyone's worldview changes sometime during his or 

her lifetime, either a little or a lot? Why? Why not? 

If we believe that truth never changes, why must we admit that our 

worldview changes, sometimes a little and sometimes a lot? 

Is it frightening to think that your worldview will go through stages of 

change during your lifetime? Why? Why not? 


21



If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Writing About It (SWT p. 

21) and Thinking About It (SWT p. 22). If you prefer, create comprehension, 




topic 6. does our worldview really matter? 


A discussion about worldviews would probably not be a popular topic among young 

people or even adults in a social setting. Most people simply live their lives, acting 

and reacting to life's events based upon beliefs they seldom if ever think about, 

much less analyze. In fact, the term worldview is quite foreign to most people, even 

to those who think that what they believe really matters in their life. Everyone has 

a worldview, even if they don't know they do. And everyone's worldview matters, 

even if they don't know it does. So why is it so important to know what a worldview 

is, and why is it so important to understand the differences in the major worldviews 

we will encounter throughout our lives? 

First, not all worldviews explain the meaning of life and the world truthfully. An 

atheist's worldview gives quite a different perspective or meaning to life in contrast 

to a biblical Christian worldview. For the atheist, death is the end of life. For the 

Christian, death is the gateway to eternal life. These opposing beliefs are not 

inconsequential to either adherent. One provides a false view of life and eternity, 

the other a true view. 

Second, not all worldviews lead to right choices and actions. A person who does not 

believe in the sanctity of life from conception may choose abortion if the conceived 

child is unwanted. Of course, the rightness or wrongness of such an action can 

only be determined by weighing it against the truth of Ultimate Reality, God and 

His Word. People who do not believe in God and His Word as ultimate truth and 

authority may not believe their behavior is wrong, but their belief does not make 

their choice right. The history of the world is filled with the painful consequences 

of people holding worldviews that do not align with truth. Whether these negative 

consequences are personal or corporate (as in the Holocaust), they are the result 

of people holding a worldview that led them to wrong choices and behaviors. In 

other words, all worldviews have consequences. Worldviews matter! 

Third, worldviews matter because we are susceptible to the influence of other 

worldviews, even to the point of "being captured" by them. We are impacted by 

behaviors and events just by observing the everyday world around us. Without 

carefully analyzing what we observe, we may be influenced by what we see as 

success, happiness, and fulfillment in others. We may consciously or unconsciously 

try to emulate the lifestyles or behaviors of others in an effort to achieve what we 

perceive are these good things for ourselves. 

What we read influences our worldview. Whether pulp fiction or the great literary 

classics, the written word penetrates our minds and eventually our hearts, shaping 



our worldview. Nothing is written from a completely objective standpoint. Either 

directly or between the lines, the worldview of an author permeates his or her 

writings. To some extent, even news reports carry subjective interpretations that 

influence our thinking. 


In our high-tech age, electronic media bombard our minds from the time we awake 

to the time we go to bed with multiple sound bites and images. Television, movies, 

and the various music and communication technologies including internet web sites 

loudly proclaim the worldview of those who create them. This is especially true of 

media entertainment created for our consumption. No doubt what we consume, 

whether we agree with it or not, can, in time, find its way into our way of thinking, 

and eventually into our embrace. 

Advertising communicated through hi-tech media formats also influences our 

worldview. It doesn't take a genius to discern that ad developers create needs 

we could never have imagined and/or identify our base human desires and then 

customize their messages to meet them. In time, our sense of well-being or worth 

is measured in relation to having our desires and our actual or supposed needs met 

with every imaginable kind of product. Our worldview embraces self-satisfaction at 

all costs, and we become narcissistic consumers who, sadly, are never satisfied. 

In this age of competing worldviews vying to control our hearts and minds, it is 

important to realize the extent to which the worldview we embrace matters. Only 

by heeding the words of Scripture that admonish us not to allow anyone to "take 

[us] captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human 

tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ" (Colossians 2:8) 

can we hope to understand life and our world and act in the right way. Our beliefs 

and actions have consequences. Worldviews matter! 



to ascertain how important students think their worldview is in their life. Then 

have them read or role play the conversation between Joshua and Amanda 

(SWT p. 23). 

 

Read or role play the conversation below between Joshua and Amanda 

23 


Joshua: “I believe it’s important to think about and know what you believe about 

life and the world.” 

Amanda: “Oh, I just sort of accept the way the world is. I don’t really need to 

think about it all that much.” 

Joshua: “Really? Don’t you think it’s important to know what you believe about 

God, the universe, people, truth, and what’s right and wrong?” 

Amanda: “What difference does it make what you believe? You can believe 

what you want to, and I can believe what I want to. Besides, who knows what’s 

really right?” 

Topic 6 

Does Our Worldview Really Matter? 

Read or role play the conversation below between 

Lots more fun than thinking about life and the 

Joshua and Amanda. 

world! And I’m wearing my new jeans. They’re 

really in. I think everyone will be jealous!” 

Joshua: “I believe it’s important to think about 

and know what you believe about life and the 

Joshua: “Matt and I and some others said we’d 

world.” 

help the coaches with the Special Olympics this 

afternoon. Then there’s the awards ceremony 

Amanda: “Oh, I just sort of accept the way the 

and picnic afterwards. It’s lots of fun and you 

world is. I don’t really need to think about it 

get to meet some really neat kids.” 

all that much.” 

Amanda: “Whatever! See ya later!” 

Joshua: “Really? Don’t you think 

it’s important to know what you 

Do both Joshua and 

believe about God, the universe, 

Amanda have a 

people, truth, and what’s right 

worldview? How 

and wrong?” 

do you know? How 

do their worldviews 

Amanda: “What difference 

differ? Do their worldviews 

infl uence their 

does it make what you 

believe? You can believe 

actions and attitudes? 

what you want to, and I 

In what ways? 

can believe what I want 

to. Besides, who knows 

As you can see in this conversation, 

both Joshua and 

what’s really right?” 

Amanda have a worldview, 

Joshua: “I think what 

even though Amanda seems 

you believe makes 

never to have considered that 

a big difference. 

her view of life and the world 

What you believe 

affects her behavior. After thinking 

about Joshua’s and Amanda’s 

affects the choices you 

make--you know, the way you live 

worldviews and choices, ask yourself 

your life.” 

these questions: 1) Does it matter 

what worldview I have? 2) If it matters, 

why? 

Amanda: “I think it’s boring to think about life 

and the world and all that kind of stuff. I just do 

what I like to do. Hey, are you going to the party 

Next, you will explore three important reasons 

at Roger’s house tonight? All the cool kids will 

why a person’s worldview matters. 

be there--cool music--great food--just lots of fun. 


23 


23


23 



Topic 6 

Does Our Worldview Really Matter? 

Read or role play the conversation below between 

Lots more fun than thinking about life and the 

Joshua and Amanda. 

world! And I’m wearing my new jeans. They’re 

really in. I think everyone will be jealous!” 

Joshua: “I believe it’s important to think about 

and know what you believe about life and the 

Joshua: “Matt and I and some others said we’d 

world.” 

help the coaches with the Special Olympics this 

afternoon. Then there’s the awards ceremony 

Amanda: “Oh, I just sort of accept the way the 

and picnic afterwards. It’s lots of fun and you 

world is. I don’t really need to think about it 

get to meet some really neat kids.” 

all that much.” 


Joshua: “Really? Don’t you think 

it’s important to know what you 

Do both Joshua and 

believe about God, the universe, 

Amanda have a 

people, truth, and what’s right 

worldview? How 

and wrong?” 

do you know? How 

do their worldviews 

Amanda: “What difference 

differ? Do their worldviews 

infl uence their 

does it make what you 

believe? You can believe 

actions and attitudes? 

what you want to, and I 

In what ways? 

can believe what I want 

to. Besides, who knows 

As you can see in this conversation, 

both Joshua and 

what’s really right?” 

Amanda have a worldview, 

Joshua: “I think what 

even though Amanda seems 

you believe makes 

never to have considered that 

a big difference. 

her view of life and the world 

What you believe 

affects her behavior. After thinking 

about Joshua’s and Amanda’s 

affects the choices you 

make--you know, the way you live 

worldviews and choices, ask yourself 

your life.” 

these questions: 1) Does it matter 

what worldview I have? 2) If it matters, 

why? 

Amanda: “I think it’s boring to think about life 


what I like to do. Hey, are you going to the party 

Next, you will explore three important reasons 

at Roger’s house tonight? All the cool kids will 

why a person’s worldview matters. 

be there--cool music--great food--just lots of fun. 


23 

Joshua: “I think what you believe makes a big difference. What you believe 

affects the choices you make—you know, the way you live your life.” 

Amanda: “I think it’s boring to think about life and the world and all that kind 

of stuff. I just do what I like to do. Hey, are you going to 

the party at Roger’s house tonight? All the cool kids will 

be there—cool music—great food—just lots of fun. Lots 

more fun than thinking about life and the world! And I’m 

wearing my new jeans. They’re really in. I think everyone 

will be jealous!” 

Joshua: “Matt and I and some others said we’d help the 

coaches with the Special Olympics this afternoon. Then 

there’s the awards ceremony and picnic afterwards. It’s 

lots of fun and you get to meet some really neat kids.” 

Lesson 1 

Not All Worldviews Explain the Meaning of 

Life and the World Tr uthfully: All people try to 

explain the meaning of life and the world by looking 

through their worldview (or belief) glasses. But as 

you have already learned, all worldview glasses 

do not provide a truthful or focused view. 

For example, what would death mean to someone 

who does not believe in God? An atheist would 

say that death means the end of life forever. 

Now, what would death mean to someone whose 

worldview includes a belief in God and the Bible 

as God’s Word? This person would say that death 

means the beginning of eternal life with God for 

all Christians. But it also means the beginning of 

eternal life separated from God for all who reject 

Jesus as God’s Son and their Savior. 

If we don’t have a correct or truthful worldview, the 

meaning we give to events such as death will be 

false. And an untruthful understanding of death, life, 

and the world leads not only to separation from God, 

but also to problems in our present life on earth. 

Does your worldview matter? Absolutely! 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

Not All Worldviews Lead to Right Choices and 

Actions: As you saw in the conversation between 

Joshua and Amanda, worldviews infl uence a person’s 

choices and actions. If we don’t understand 

the true meaning of life and the world, we will 

not make right choices. And wrong choices and 

behaviors always lead to painful consequences. 

People who don’t accept or believe they have to 

obey the law suffer the consequence of arrest and 

imprisonment. And atheists who don’t believe in 

God or eternal life make the choice to reject Jesus 

as their Savior. This choice results in the painful 

consequence of eternal separation from God. 



24 

 


Do both Joshua and Amanda have a worldview? How do you know? How do 

their worldviews differ? Do their worldviews influence their actions and attitudes? 

In what ways? 

As you can see in this conversation, both Joshua and Amanda have a worldview, 

even though Amanda seems never to have considered that her view of life and 

the world affects her behavior. After thinking about Joshua’s and Amanda’s 

worldviews and choices, ask yourself these questions: 1) Does it matter what 

worldview I have? 2) If it matters, why? 

Next, you will explore three important reasons why a person’s worldview matters. 


What does this conversation reveal about Amanda's worldview? 

In what ways does Amanda's worldview lead her to think and act? 

What does this conversation reveal about Joshua's worldview? 

In what ways does Joshua's worldview lead him to think and act? 

After reading this conversation, do you have any new insights about 

why your worldview matters? 

Have students continue reading Topic 6 (SWT p. 24). 

Not All Worldviews Explain the Meaning of Life and the World Truthfully: 

All people try to explain the meaning of life and the world by looking through 

their worldview (or belief) glasses. But as you have already 

learned, all worldview glasses do not provide a truthful or 

focused view. 

For example, what would death mean to someone who does 

not believe in God? An atheist would say that death means 

the end of life forever. 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 



Now, what would death mean to someone whose worldview 

includes a belief in God and the Bible as God’s Word? This 

person would say that death means the beginning of eternal 

life with God for all Christians. But it also means the beginning 

of eternal life separated from God for all who reject Jesus as 

God’s Son and their Savior. 


If we don’t have a correct or truthful worldview, the meaning 

we give to events such as death will be false. And an untruthful understanding 

of death, life, and the world leads not only to separation from God, but also to 

problems in our present life on earth. 


Lesson 1 

24 

Not All Worldviews Lead to Right Choices and Actions: As you saw in the 

conversation between Joshua and Amanda, worldviews influence a person’s 

choices and actions. If we don’t understand the true meaning of life and the world, 

we will not make right choices. And wrong choices 

and behaviors always lead to painful consequences. 


obey the law suffer the consequences of arrest and 

imprisonment. And atheists who don’t believe in God 

or eternal life make the choice to reject Jesus as their 

Savior. This choice results in the painful consequence 

of eternal separation from God. 

Not All Worldviews Explain the Meaning of 

Life and the World Tr uthfully: All people try to 

explain the meaning of life and the world by looking 

through their worldview (or belief) glasses. But as 

you have already learned, all worldview glasses 

do not provide a truthful or focused view. 

For example, what would death mean to someone 

who does not believe in God? An atheist would 

say that death means the end of life forever. 

Now, what would death mean to someone whose 

worldview includes a belief in God and the Bible 

as God’s Word? This person would say that death 

means the beginning of eternal life with God for 

all Christians. But it also means the beginning of 

eternal life separated from God for all who reject 

Jesus as God’s Son and their Savior. 

If we don’t have a correct or truthful worldview, the 

meaning we give to events such as death will be 

false. And an untruthful understanding of death, life, 

and the world leads not only to separation from God, 

but also to problems in our present life on earth. 


TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

TRUTH 

Not All Worldviews Lead to Right Choices and 

Actions: As you saw in the conversation between 

Joshua and Amanda, worldviews influence a person’s 

choices and actions. If we don’t understand 

the true meaning of life and the world, we will 

not make right choices. And wrong choices and 

behaviors always lead to painful consequences. 


obey the law suffer the consequence of arrest and 

imprisonment. And atheists who don’t believe in 

God or eternal life make the choice to reject Jesus 

as 

their Savior. This choice results in the painful 

consequence of eternal separation from God. 





Do all worldviews explain or interpret life and the world in the same 

way? 

How would the worldview of an atheist and the worldview of a Christian 

differ in the meaning of death? 

Would both the atheist's and Christian's worldview about the meaning 

of death be equally true? Why? Why not? 

What must you understand about each worldview's interpretations or 

beliefs about God, people, the universe, truth, and right and wrong? 

Does it really matter what worldview you have? Why? 

25 


 

What determines our choices and actions? 

Why is it important for your worldview to be in harmony with the truth 

about God, people, the universe, truth, and right and wrong? 

Do our beliefs have consequences? 

Do worldviews matter? Why? 

Have students complete the reading of Topic 6 (SWT pp. 25-26). 

We Can Be Influenced or Captured by Other Worldviews: You will learn 

throughout this study that there are many kinds of worldviews. People hold all 

kinds of beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. How 

We Can Be Influenced or Captured by Other 

Worldviews: You will learn throughout this study 

that there are many kinds of worldviews. People 

hold all kinds of beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. How can we 

know which beliefs and which worldview provide 

the true or focused view of life and the world? 

Most people believe that the worldview glasses 

they are wearing give them the true view of the 

world around them. They believe in their worldview 

and may consciously or unconsciously influence 

others to accept or believe it as they do. But 

how can this happen? Can we be infl uenced to 

believe in another person’s worldview even if it is 

not true? Can we be infl uenced by more than one 

worldview? If so, how? 

Observation: As you learned earlier in this lesson, 

you can learn a lot about a person’s worldview by 

just watching his or her behavior. Not only that, but 

your own worldview can be greatly infl uenced by 

the worldview and actions of those you observe. 

You may like and envy how others live, especially 

if their lives seem to be fi lled with fun and excitement. 

Then deliberately or even without thinking, 

you may begin to adopt their attitudes and 

behaviors. All or part of their worldview becomes 

a part of yours. 


Reading Material: In Topic 3, your learned that your 

worldview is influenced through study and reading. 

Whether you’re reading a textbook, a magazine, 

a 

book of fiction, or a newspaper, you’re reading 

words written by someone who has a worldview. 

What people write always reflects their worldview, 

even if they never use the word “worldview” in 

their writing. The pages they write are always 

filled with events or comments that reflect their 

own personal beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. Unfortunately, 

some people believe that everything they see in 

writing must be true. What you read can and does 

influence your worldview! 

Television Programs, Movies, Music, Internet 

Web Sites: Television shows, movies, music, 

and internet web sites are produced by people 

with worldviews. Media are very powerful tools 

that can shape what you believe to be true about 

life and the world. Without even thinking about 

25 


25



can we know which beliefs and which worldview provide the true or focused 

view of life and the world? 

Most people believe that the worldview glasses they are wearing give them 

the true view of the world around them. They believe in their worldview and 

may consciously or unconsciously influence others to accept or believe it as 

they do. But how can this happen? Can we be influenced to believe in another 

person’s worldview even if it is not true? Can we be influenced by more than 

one worldview? If so, how? 

25 

We Can Be Influenced or Captured by Other 

Worldviews: You will learn throughout this study 

that there are many kinds of worldviews. People 

hold all kinds of beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. How can we 

know which beliefs and which worldview provide 

the true or focused view of life and the world? 


Reading Material: In Topic 3, your learned that your 

worldview is influenced through study and reading. 

Whether you’re reading a textbook, a magazine, 

a 

book of fiction, or a newspaper, you’re reading 

words written by someone who has a worldview. 

What people write always refl ects their worldview, 

even if they never use the word “worldview” in 

Most people believe that the worldview glasses 

they are wearing give them the true view of the 

world around them. They believe in their worldview 

and may consciously or unconsciously influence 

others to accept or believe it as they do. But 

how can this happen? Can we be influenced to 

believe in another person’s worldview even if it is 

not true? Can we be influenced by more than one 

worldview? If so, how? 


you can learn a lot about a person’s worldview by 

just watching his or her behavior. Not only that, but 

your own worldview can be greatly influenced by 

the worldview and actions of those you observe. 

You may like and envy how others live, especially 

if their lives seem to be filled with fun and excitement. 

Then deliberately or even without thinking, 

you may begin to adopt their attitudes and 

behaviors. All or part of their worldview becomes 

a part of yours. 

their writing. The pages they write are always 

filled with events or comments that refl ect their 

own personal beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. Unfortunately, 

some people believe that everything they see in 

writing must be true. What you read can and does 

influence your worldview! 

Television Programs, Movies, Music, Internet 

Web Sites: Television shows, movies, music, 

and internet web sites are produced by people 

with worldviews. Media are very powerful tools 

that can shape what you believe to be true about 

life and the world. Without even thinking about 


25 


you can learn a lot about a person’s worldview by just 

watching his or her behavior. Not only that, but your own 

worldview can be greatly influenced by the worldview 

and actions of those you observe. You may like and 

envy how others live, especially if their lives seem to 

be filled with fun and excitement. Then deliberately or 

even without thinking, you may begin to adopt their attitudes 

and behaviors. All or part of their worldview becomes a part of yours. 

Reading Material: In Topic 3, your learned that your worldview 

is influenced through study and reading. Whether you’re 

reading a textbook, a magazine, a book of fiction, or a newspaper, 

you’re reading words written by someone who has a 

worldview. What people write always reflects their worldview, 

even if they never use the word “worldview” in their writing. 

The pages they write are always filled with events or comments 

that reflect their own personal beliefs about God, the 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. Unfortunately, 

some people believe that everything they see in writing must 

be true. What you read can and does influence your worldview! 

Lesson 1 

26 

Television Programs, Movies, Music, Internet Web 

Sites: Television shows, movies, music, and internet web 

sites are produced by people with worldviews. Media are 

very powerful tools that can shape what you believe to 

be true about life and the world. Without even thinking 

about it, you can begin to absorb the values and beliefs 

that you see and hear the media portray day after day. 

it, you can begin to absorb 

What Does God Say About 

the values and beliefs that 

Worldviews? With so many 

you see and hear the media 

worldview messages bombarding 

your heart and mind 

portray day after day. 

and influencing your actions 

People sometimes say, “Oh, 

every second of every day, 

it doesn’t matter what I watch 

it’s important that you understand 

which messages 

or listen to. It’s just a movie, 

or it’s just music!” But whether 

are true and which are false. 

you realize it or not, your 

Unless you do, you’ll not be 

worldview is being influenced 

wearing truthful worldview 

and developed by the sights 

glasses that focus your view 

and sounds you absorb into 

of life and the world. You 

your mind and heart. 

must be careful not to allow 

untruthful worldview beliefs 

Advertising: Do you believe 

to keep you from seeing the 

everything you see or hear 

world in focus. Remember, 

in advertisements? Can you 

what you believe is true will 

identify the hidden messages 

determine your choices and 

in advertisements that try 

actions. And all choices and all 

to persuade you to buy the 

actions have consequences, 

product? Ads are created 

either for good or for evil. 

by people with worldviews, 

and their ads often contain 

God warns us about the powerful 

influence the worldviews 

images and words that reveal 

what they believe to be 

of others can have on us. He 

true about life and the world. 

warns us that worldviews and 

Like watching television and 

beliefs that are not true can 

listening to music, you can 

capture our hearts and minds. 

unconsciously begin to absorb 

The apostle Paul wrote a letter 

these worldview messages into your mind and to an early Christian church in the city of Colosse. 

heart. Soon these messages become part of your His words were true then, and they’re true today. 

own worldview. 

Memorize them, and hide them in your heart. Let 

them guide you as you begin to study and think 

Does your worldview matter? Absolutely! about the amazing world of worldviews. 

Memory Verse 

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on 

human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 


People sometimes say, “Oh, it doesn’t matter what I watch or listen to. It’s just 

a movie, or it’s just music!” But whether you realize it or not, your worldview is 

being influenced and developed by the sights and sounds 

you absorb into your mind and heart. 

Advertising: Do you believe everything you see or hear 

in advertisements? Can you identify the hidden messages 

in advertisements that try to persuade you to buy 

the product? Ads are created by people with worldviews, 

and their ads often contain images and words that reveal 

what they believe to be true about life and the world. Just 



as you can absorb worldview messages from television programs, movies, 

and other media, you can also unconsciously absorb into your mind and heart 

worldview messages from advertising. Soon these messages become part of 

your own worldview. 


What Does God Say About Worldviews? With so many worldview messages 

bombarding your heart and mind and influencing your actions every second of 

every day, it’s important that you understand which messages are true and which 

are false. Unless you do, you’ll not be wearing truthful worldview glasses that 

focus your view of life and the world. You must be careful not to allow untruthful 

worldview beliefs to keep you from seeing the world in focus. Remember, what 

you believe is true will determine your choices and actions. And all choices and 

all actions have consequences, either for good or for evil. 


Lesson 1 





























these worldview messages into your mind and 

heart. Soon these messages become part of your 







and infl uencing your actions 

























to an early Christian church in the city of Colosse. 

His words were true then, and they’re true today. 



about the amazing world of worldviews. 

Memory Verse 




26 

God warns us about the powerful influence the worldviews of others can have 

on us. He warns us that worldviews and beliefs that are not true can capture 

our hearts and minds. The apostle Paul wrote a letter to an early Christian 

church in the city of Colosse. His words were true then, and they’re true today. 

Memorize them, and hide them in your heart. Let them guide you as you begin 

to study and think about the amazing world of worldviews. 


How powerful are worldviews? Can another person's worldview influence 

your worldview? 

What are four powerful influences on your worldview? 

What kinds of people do we observe? 

What kinds of choices and actions do we observe? 

How much influence do you think famous people (movie stars, sports 

heroes, musicians, etc.) have on our beliefs and actions? 

How much influence do people we observe in our everyday lives 

have on our beliefs and actions (i.e., parents, teachers, pastors, 

friends, etc.)? 

Can you think of any way your worldview has been shaped by a particular 

person or a particular group of people you have observed? 

Why do the things we read have such a powerful influence on our 

worldview? 

What kinds of reading materials do you think can influence your 

worldview? 

Is everything you read true? 

What do you need to do to determine if what you're reading is truthful 

or not? 

How much do you think your worldview has been influenced by television, 

movies, popular music, and the internet? In what ways? 

What kinds of messages are communicated through television, movies, 

music, and the internet? Are these kinds of communication evil in 

themselves? Why? Why not? 


27



Are you able to tell the difference between fantasy and reality in what 

you watch through visual media? 

Have you been able to discover some of the worldview messages 

that are communicated through different media? Why? 

Do you discuss with your parents the worldview messages that you 

see and hear through different media? Why? Why not? 

Lesson 1 





























these worldview messages into your mind and 

heart. Soon these messages become part of your 



Memory Verse 





and influencing your actions 

























to an early Christian church in the city of Colosse. 

His words were true then, and they’re true today. 



about the amazing world of worldviews. 




26 

Discuss the Lesson 1 Memory 

Verse to ascertain students' 

understanding of its vocabulary, 

meaning, and application. 

 

How much have you been influenced by television commercials or 

other kinds of advertisements? 

What do advertisements try to get you to do? 

What are some of the methods advertisers use to get your attention 

and to get you to buy their products? 

What kinds of worldview messages are communicated through many 

advertisements? Do you think all of these messages are truthful? 

What warning and command does God give us in the Bible to help 

us know how to respond to the many worldview messages bombarding 

us every day in so many ways? 

What kinds of worldviews can take our minds captive if we're not 

alert and careful? 

How can we guard our hearts and minds against the false worldviews 

of the world? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 1 Memory Verse, Colossians 2:8. 

Have students read and recite the verse (SWT p. 26). Discuss in relation to the 

concepts presented in Lesson 1. 

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive 

philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of 

this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 


27-28),Thinking About It (SWT pp. 29-30), and Hiding God's Word (SWT pp. 

31-32).If you prefer, create comprehension, application, and enrichment activities 

of your own. 

For more comprehension, application, and enrichment suggestions, see Group 

Activities and Group Discussions on page 3 of the Teacher Manual. 

Suggested Reading/Resources 

Geisler, Norman L., and William D. Watkins. Worlds Apart: A Handbook on Worldviews. 

2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1989. 

Nash, Ronald H. Worldviews in Conflict: Choosing Christianity in a World of Ideas. 

Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992. 

Phillips, W. Gary, William E. Brown, and John Stonestreet. Making Sense of Your 

World: A Biblical Worldview. Salem, WI: Sheffield, 2008. 


LESSON 2 

A World of worldviews 

An Introduction to Three Major Categories of Worldviews 

Introduction 


People categorize or group worldviews in various ways in order to study them. Some 

arrange worldviews geographically, i.e., a Western worldview or an African worldview. 

Others arrange them by philosophical emphases, i.e., a Marxist worldview or a 

postmodern worldview. Still others arrange them by their beliefs about God, i.e., a 

theistic worldview or a polytheistic worldview. The authors of Making Sense of Your 

World: A Biblical Worldview 1 categorize the major worldviews on the basis of their 

beliefs about ultimate reality. From this perspective, all worldviews fit into one of 

three categories: (1) Worldviews that believe ultimate reality is only material. Such 

worldviews are often identified by the terms materialism, naturalism, humanism, or 

atheism; (2) Worldviews that believe ultimate reality is only immaterial spiritual energy. 

Many variations of this worldview exist, including spiritualism, transcendentalism, 

pantheism, animism, and the New Age movement; (3) Worldviews that believe 

ultimate reality is God, the Creator of the physical universe. These worldviews 

include theism and deism among others, each holding a different understanding 

of God and His creation. 

Lesson 2 introduces students to the three major categories of worldviews they will 

study in A World of Worldviews. The lesson first explores the meaning of theism and 

its expression in the three major theistic world religions—Judaism, Christianity, and 

Islam; next, it explores the meaning of naturalism and naturalistic worldviews; finally, 

it explores the New Age worldview. Each of these categories is later developed 

in depth—Biblical Christianity in Unit 2, Islam in Unit 3, Naturalism in Unit 4, and 

the New Age in Unit 5. Introductory background material for these categories and 

worldviews is provided in the Teacher Manual. 








lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














1 

Phillips, W. Gary, William E. Brown, and John Stonestreet. Making Sense of Your World: A Biblical 

Worldview. Salem, WI: Sheffield, 2008, p. 22. 


For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power 

and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has 

been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 

Objectives 

• Students will identify personal and corporate evidence of different worldviews 

within their own community. 


29



• Students will define a theistic worldview and identify the three major theistic world 

religions. 

• Students will compare and contrast the beliefs about God held by Judaism, 

Christianity, and Islam. 

• Students will identify the sources upon which Judaism, Christianity, and Islam 

base their theistic worldviews. 

• Students will define a naturalistic worldview and identify its essential difference 

from a theistic worldview. 

• Students will identify the major premise upon which the naturalistic worldview is 

based. 

• Students will define the New Age or spiritualist worldview and identify its major 

difference from a theistic worldview. 

• Students will identify the major premises upon which the New Age worldview is 

based. 

Materials 


Optional: Getting Started—Pictures, books, advertisements, and/or 

newspaper and magazine articles and artifacts representing various 

worldviews 

Optional: Topic 1—the Hebrew Torah and the Koran 


Lesson 2 Memory Verse Romans 1:20 

Definition 2a 

Definition 2b 

Definition 2c 

Theism: A worldview based on a belief in the 

existence of an Almighty Personal God, Who is 

also the Creator of the universe 

Judaism: One of three great theistic worldview 

religions based on the belief that God reveals 

truth about Himself and the universe through 

the creation and through the words of the Old 

Testament, including the Torah 

Christianity: One of three great theistic worldview 

religions based on the belief that God reveals truth 

about Himself and the universe through creation, 

through the words of the Old and New Testaments, 

and personally through Jesus Christ 



Definition 2d 

Definition 2e 

Definition 2f 

Islam: One of three great theistic worldview 

religions based on the belief that God reveals truth 

about Himself and the universe through creation, 

through the words of some books of the Old and 

New Testaments, and through the Koran 

Naturalism: An atheistic worldview based on the 

belief that our senses and science prove that the 

material universe is all that exists and all that is 

real 

New Age worldview: A primarily pantheistic 

worldview based on mystical beliefs that God and 

everything in the universe are one impersonal 

spiritual being or energy 




Topic 1 




Writing About It. p. 48 


Group Activities 

A World of Worldviews in My Community: Obtain copies of Yellow Pages 

and have groups of students search the sections on churches, mosques, 

and synagogues in order to identify the variety of religious groups in their 

local community. In larger communities, Baha'i, Buddhist, Hindu, and other 

groups may also be listed under churches. You may wish to have students 

search the New Age and/or Psychics categories where New Age shops and 

spiritualist activities and services are listed. Have students share their findings. 

Encourage them to share information about other expressions of different 

worldviews they have observed or know about in their community. 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 

Definition Drill: Make copies of the BLM Definition Cards used in Lessons 

1 and 2. On the blank side of the copy, write the term. Have students work 

in pairs, alternating between displaying and reciting the terms and their 

definitions. 

Community Extensions 

Invite a rabbi to share information about the Torah and how Judaism is 

expressed in your community. 

Invite a Christian science teacher and/or a Christian scientist to share how 

he or she engages the creation in his or her work from a biblical Christian 

perspective. 


31






getting started—So Many Worldviews 


All people embrace a worldview that shapes the way they perceive and respond to 

reality. Whether people wear Hindu belief glasses or Christian belief glasses to focus 

their lives and the world, they see the same world but interpret it and respond to it 

in different ways. Seldom, however, do people live out a worldview that is uniquely 

their own. Worldviews are usually shared corporately, resulting in large numbers 

of people developing communities and cultures with distinctive and identifiable 

characteristics. Some nations, such as Japan, have a rather homogeneous culture, 

with most Japanese embracing the same worldview throughout their nation. There 

is little doubt for visitors that Japan is Japan. On the other hand, the United States is 

a heterogeneous culture, comprised of multiple ethnic and racial groups, many with 

their own unique worldview. In large cities, cultural groups can easily be identified by 

their dress, foods, architecture, worship, and social/family norms and practices. 

In most multicultural nations, people with differing worldviews hold an overarching 

set of beliefs that allows them to coexist peacefully with one another even with their 

differences. Shared values such as respect for life and property, personal freedom, 

democracy, and/or the importance of basic integrity in interpersonal relationships 

allow divergent subcultures to build and maintain a national culture in spite of their 

differences. On the other hand, worldviews within a multicultural community or nation 

can become so diverse that peaceful coexistence with opposing worldviews is no 

longer possible. Culture clashes leading even to civil wars can erupt, destroying the 

fabric of the nations. Of course, when nations hold extremely divergent worldviews 

(or their governments do), international strife and war can result as evidenced in 

the twentieth century's two World Wars and multiple violent regional wars. 

33 

LESSON 2 



Getting G Started--So Many Worldviews 

A word of caution: Although outward appearances, both personal and corporate, 

often reveal much about the worldview of individuals and communities, they are 

not fool-proof indicators. We must be careful not to judge or label a person's or a 

group's worldview by external criteria only. A woman wearing a sari may or may not 

be a Hindu, and a pierced and tattooed man may or may not hold a biblical Christian 

worldview. As we will see, many people in Western cultures hold eclectic worldviews 

that have been shaped by the world of worldviews they have encountered. 

So Many Views of the World: In Lesson 1, you But is such thinking boring? Is it really not important 

learned that a worldview is a set of beliefs through 

to think about what you believe and know if your 

which you view and interpret life and the world beliefs give you the true picture of your life and the 

and that guides your choices and behaviors. You world? If you think about it, you know that what 

learned that a worldview is like a pair of glasses people believe always leads to action. And if what 

that helps you bring life and the world into focus. they believe isn’t true, their choices and behaviors 

You learned that everyone does not hold the can have tragic consequences, not only for themselves, 

but also for entire communities, nations, 

same basic beliefs about life and the world. In 

other words, people don’t all wear the same kind and the world. Remember--beliefs lead to choices, 

of “belief glasses” to help them bring life and the and choices always have consequences. 

world into focus. People have different beliefs 

about God, the universe, people, truth, and right Looking at a World of Worldviews: People 

and wrong. These different beliefs or views of around the world hold many different sets of beliefs 

life and the world lead people to behave or act in 

or worldviews. Even in your own community, you 

different ways. 

know that people have different views about God, 

the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. 

With so many ways of looking at life and the And although they don’t wear signs announcing 

world and so many ways to behave, have you their worldview, we can know something about 

ever wondered which worldview is the correct their worldview by observing them. First, individual 

one? Does any one worldview provide a more behaviors provide clues about people’s beliefs and 

accurate or truthful understanding 

of the world 

not to judge or label others by what they look like 

view of the world. Although we must be careful 

than other worldviews 

or what they do, behaviors such how they dress 

do? You also learned 

and speak often reveal how they interpret life and 

in Lesson 1 that most 

the world. 

people don’t think about 

their worldview or ask 

Second, when large numbers of people hold the 

important worldview 

same worldview, we often see evidence of that 

questions. Many people 

worldview within the nation and communities 

think like Amanda, who 

where they live. For example, in nations and 

told Joshua, “I think it’s 

communities where many people are Christians 

boring to think about life 

and hold a biblical Christian worldview, we would 


expect to see many churches. We would also 

what I like to do.” 

expect to see Christian schools and bookstores 


33 


 

Have students turn to Getting Started (SWT p. 33). Have them read So Many 

Views of the World. 

So Many Views of the World: In Lesson 1, you learned that a worldview is a 

set of beliefs through which you view and interpret life and the world and that 

guides your choices and behaviors. You learned that a worldview is like a pair 



of glasses that helps you bring life and the world into focus. You learned that 

everyone does not hold the same basic beliefs about life and the world. In other 

words, people don’t all wear the same kind of “belief glasses” to help them 

bring life and the world into focus. People have different beliefs about God, the 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. These different beliefs or views of 

life and the world lead people to behave or act in different ways. 

With so many ways of looking at life and the world and so many ways to behave, 

have you ever wondered which worldview is the correct one? 

Does any one worldview provide a more accurate or truthful 

understanding of the world than other worldviews do? You also 

learned in Lesson 1 that most people don’t think about their 

worldview or ask important worldview questions. Many people 

think like Amanda, who told Joshua, “I think it’s boring to think 

about life and the world and all that kind of stuff. I just do what 

I like to do.” 


33 

LESSON 2 



Getting G Started--So Many Worldviews 

So Many Views of the World: In Lesson 1, you But is such thinking boring? Is it really not important 

learned that a worldview is a set of beliefs through 

to think about what you believe and know if your 

which you view and interpret life and the world beliefs give you the true picture of your life and the 

and that guides your choices and behaviors. You world? If you think about it, you know that what 

learned that a worldview is like a pair of glasses people believe always leads to action. And if what 

that helps you bring life and the world into focus. they believe isn’t true, their choices and behaviors 

You learned that everyone does not hold the can have tragic consequences, not only for themselves, 

but also for entire communities, nations, 

same basic beliefs about life and the world. In 

other words, people don’t all wear the same kind and the world. Remember--beliefs lead to choices, 

of “belief glasses” to help them bring life and the and choices always have consequences. 

world into focus. People have different beliefs 

about God, the universe, people, truth, and right Looking at a World of Worldviews: People 

and wrong. These different beliefs or views of around the world hold many different sets of beliefs 

life and the world lead people to behave or act in 

or worldviews. Even in your own community, you 

different ways. 

know that people have different views about God, 


With so many ways of looking at life and the And although they don’t wear signs announcing 

world and so many ways to behave, have you their worldview, we can know something about 

ever wondered which worldview is the correct their worldview by observing them. First, individual 

one? Does any one worldview provide a more behaviors provide clues about people’s beliefs and 

accurate or truthful understanding 

of the world 

not to judge or label others by what they look like 

view of the world. Although we must be careful 

than other worldviews 

or what they do, behaviors such how they dress 

do? You also learned 

and speak often reveal how they interpret life and 

in Lesson 1 that most 

the world. 

people don’t think about 

their worldview or ask 

Second, when large numbers of people hold the 

important worldview 

same worldview, we often see evidence of that 

questions. Many people 

worldview within the nation and communities 

think like Amanda, who 

where they live. For example, in nations and 

told Joshua, “I think it’s 

communities where many people are Christians 

boring to think about life 

and hold a biblical Christian worldview, we would 


expect to see many churches. We would also 

what I like to do.” 

expect to see Christian schools and bookstores 


33 

But is such thinking boring? Is it really not important to think about what you 

believe and know if your beliefs give you the true picture of your life and the 

world? If you think about it, you know that what people believe always leads to 

action. And if what they believe isn’t true, their choices and behaviors can have 

tragic consequences, not only for themselves, but also for entire communities, 

nations, and the world. Remember—beliefs lead to choices, and choices always 

have consequences. 


What is a worldview? 

What do we mean when we say that a worldview is like a pair of 

glasses? 

What are the major categories of beliefs that people try to interpret 

through their worldview glasses? 

Does everyone come to the same conclusion about beliefs in these 

categories? 

What kinds of evidence do you see or know about that shows that 

people hold different beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, 

and right and wrong? 

Do you agree with Amanda's view or Joshua's view about the importance 

of knowing what you believe? Why? 

Have students read Looking at the World of Worldviews (SWT pp. 33-34). 

 

Looking at a World of Worldviews: People around the world hold many different 

sets of beliefs or worldviews. Even in your own community, you know that 

people have different views about God, the universe, people, truth, and right 

and wrong. And although they don’t wear signs announcing their worldview, we 

can know something about their worldview by observing them. First, individual 

behaviors provide clues about people’s beliefs and view of the world. Although 

we must be careful not to judge or label others by what they look like or what 

they do, behaviors such as how they dress and speak often reveal how they 

interpret life and the world. 

At this point, a distinction is not 

made between a religion and a 

worldview. Christianity, Judaism, 

and Islam, for example, 

are considered religions, each 

based on a theistic worldview. 

Religions are defined by codified 

communal practices, including 

prayer, ritual, and religious law 

centered around beliefs about 

God, the universe, people, truth, 

and moral values. From this definition, 

even Secular Humanism 

has been defined as a religion 

by the U.S. Supreme Court 

(Torcaso v. Watkins, 1961). 

Worldviews, on the other hand, 

are not codified, systematized, 

or practiced formally as are 

religions. Still, they include 

beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and values that influence 

individual and corporate 

behaviors. 


33

7 

9 

14 

16 


Lesson 2 

4 

1 


34 

and different kinds of Christian organizations that 

Now think about your own community or perhaps 

serve the local community and other parts of the a 

community you know something about through 

world. In countries where most of the people hold books or television. How do you know that people 

other worldviews, we’d expect to see temples or 

here or there hold many different worldviews? 

mosques where they worship beings they believe 

to be their gods or God. We’d also expect to see 

Study the pictures below and on the next page. 

festivals, clothing, and customs that would tell Discuss them with your classmates. Can you 

us about their beliefs as a community. In some 

identify any worldview beliefs represented in the 

countries, the worldview of the government leaders 

pictures? 

may not include a belief in God at all or a belief 

in the value of each citizen as an image-bearer 

Caution: Although people’s behaviors and the 

of God. In these countries, we may not see any 

communities they build refl ect their worldviews, 

places of worship because they may be illegal. one picture can never tell you everything that a 

Even in these countries, however, Christians and person or group of people believe about God, the 

others may be worshiping in secret. 


2 

5 

34 


3 

6 

Second, when large numbers of people hold the same worldview, we often see 

evidence of that worldview within the nation and communities where they live. 

For example, in nations and communities where many people are Christians 

and hold a biblical Christian worldview, we would expect to see many churches. 

We would also expect to see Christian schools and bookstores and different 

kinds of Christian organizations that serve the local community and other parts 

of the world. In countries where most of the people hold other worldviews, we’d 

expect to see temples or mosques where they worship beings they believe to 

be their gods or God. We’d also expect to see festivals, clothing, and customs 

that would tell us about their beliefs as a community. In some countries, the 

worldview of the government leaders may not include a belief in God at all or a 

belief in the value of each citizen as an image-bearer of God. In these countries, 

we may not see any places of worship because they may be illegal. Even in 

these countries, however, Christians and others may be worshiping in secret. 

Now think about your own community or perhaps a community you know something 

about through books or television. How do you know that people here or 

there hold many different worldviews? 

Study the pictures below and on the next page. Discuss them with your classmates. 

Can you identify any worldview beliefs represented in the pictures? 

Discerning a person's actions as 

right or wrong is not the same as 

judging or condemning, which 

Christians are forbidden to do 

(Matthew 7:1). 

Caution: Although people’s behaviors and the communities they build reflect their 

worldviews, one picture can never tell you everything that a person or group of 

people believes about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. 


What kinds of clues about an individual's or a community's worldview 

have you seen or know about? Give some examples. 

What must you be careful not to do when you observe another person's 

looks or actions? 

35 


If you are following the suggested syllabus, there is no written assignment in 

the Student Worktext for Getting Started. Develop student comprehension 

and application by leading a class discussion about worldviews (or worldview 

beliefs) depicted in the pictures on pages 34-35 in the SWT. Remind students 

that some pictures clearly represent certain worldview beliefs, while others may 

only suggest beliefs people hold. 

Note: Students do not need to label or name a particular worldview 

represented by the pictures. 

8 

5 

12 

11 

15 

Optional Getting Started Activity: DISPLAY pictures, books, advertisements, 

and/or newspaper and magazine articles and artifacts representing various 

worldviews. Have students identify the type of worldview or specific beliefs 

represented. Discuss as time permits. 

13 

10 

17 


35 







topic 1. worldviews that believe 

Both god and Nature exist 

In order to study worldviews, various systems of organization have been devised. 

Worldviews can be categorized according to their perspective of God and the natural 

world or cosmos. Under this category, we would find a variety of theistic worldviews 

that hold to the existence of one Personal Creator God. We would also find in this 

category atheistic worldviews that deny God's existence and affirm the cosmos as the 

only and ultimate reality. And we would find in this category polytheistic worldviews that 

affirm the existence of more than one god and pantheistic worldviews that affirm God 

and the universe are essentially an indefinable and mystical or spiritual oneness. 

Worldviews can be categorized more broadly, sometimes by including the majority 

view of people living in one region of the world. For example, when people refer to 

the African worldview, they are usually referring to animistic beliefs held by large 

numbers of African tribal cultures. Or when they refer to an Eastern worldview, 

they are referring to pantheistic beliefs common in Far Eastern cultures. Of course, 

these categories must be understood broadly since in most parts of the world today 

multiple minority worldviews are expressed within the majority. 

In A World of Worldviews, worldviews are explored in relation to their understanding 

of both God and the natural world, i.e., those that hold a belief that both a Personal 

Creator God and His created universe exist, those that hold a belief that only the 

natural world/universe exists, and those that hold a belief that "God" (an impersonal 

force) and the universe exist as one mystical force or spirit. 

Topic 1 introduces students to theism, the belief that a Personal Creator God exists 

and that He is the ultimate reality. He is the beginning point, so to speak, of a 

worldview that is based not only on His existence but also on His revelation of His 

existence to creation. Theism is the worldview of the world's three great religions: 

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Each of these religions holds a belief in an eternal, 

holy, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent spiritual Being, Who created all that 

exists. Beyond these commonly held beliefs, each of these religions holds different 

and incompatible beliefs about the nature of God. Judaism and Islam believe that 

God is one, and only one, while Christianity believes that God is one God in three 

Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each of these religions also believes that 

truth exists in God and that He reveals the truth of His existence through creation. 

And all three believe that God also reveals Himself through oral/written revelation. 

Judaic theism is based on God's revelation in the Torah, the first five books of the 

Old Testament. Christian theism is based on God's revelation in both the Old and 

New Testaments. Islamic theism is based on God's revelation through the angel 

Gabriel to the prophet Mohammed in words later recorded in the Koran. Only biblical 

Christian theism holds the belief that God also revealed Himself to creation through 

the incarnation of His Son, Jesus Christ. 

There are many variations within 

theistic worldviews. Deism, for 

example, believes that God exists 

and that He is the Creator. 

However, He has left the world 

to run on its own, i.e., God is the 

absent landlord or watchmaker. 

He is not sovereignly involved in 

life on the planet. Within deism 

there are different views about 

people's relationship with God, 

the afterlife, etc. 

The term "The Great Religions" 

is used in literature to refer to 

the three major theistic religions 

of history: Judaism, Christianity, 

and Islam. 

Judaism is not included in depth 

in A World of Worldviews. It is 

introduced here as one of the 

three major world religions 

based on a theistic worldview. 


35

God Makes a covenant with Abraham 



While these three religions are theistic and hold some common beliefs about God 

and the universe, they maintain unique differences and practices based on their 

understandings of what they believe God reveals either through written revelation, 

or, as in Christianity, through Jesus Christ, God incarnate. 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT pp. 36) 

Have students turn to Topic 1 (SWT p. 36). Have them read the title. Explain 

that one of the ways we can study the many kinds of worldviews is to look first 

at those that hold the view that both God and nature or the universe are real 

and that God is the Creator of the universe. 

Have students read Theistic Worldviews. 

Lesson 2 

Topic 1 

Worldviews That Believe Both God and Nature Exist 

Theistic Worldviews: Many different kinds of Judaism is the great world religion that was developed 

and practiced by the ancient Hebrew people, 

worldviews exist today. In fact, so many kinds 

of worldviews exist that it’s hard to identify all of whom God chose and formed into the nation of 

them by name. One way to help us study them Israel from the descendants of Abraham. 

is to organize them into categories according to 

their beliefs about God and nature or the universe. 

When we look at the different worldviews this way, 

we find three major groups or categories. We’ll 

explore the first category in Topic 1. 

Some people hold a worldview that includes a belief 

in one Personal and living God. This God is the 

One who created the universe, including the world 

and everything in it. This God is separate from His 

creation though He is very much involved in sustaining 

it. He is an all-powerful Personal spiritual 

being, who is also all-present, all-knowing, and 

absolutely holy. This God is eternal, unchanging, 

and worthy of our worship. 

A worldview that includes a belief in one Personal 

and living Creator God is called a theistic worldview. 

The name for this category comes from 

the ancient Greek word theos, meaning God. A 

theistic worldview is found in three of the world’s 

major or great religions: Judaism, Christianity, 

and Islam. Although each of these religions is 

theistic--holding a belief in one Personal Creator 

God--we’ll see that there are differences in what 

each believes about this Personal God. 

Theism 

A worldview based on a belief in the existence 

of an Almighty personal God, Who 

is also the Creator of the universe 

36 

The people who practice this theistic worldview 

religion are called Jews. Although they believe that 

God is a Personal Being and that He created the 

world, Jews do not believe that God is one God 

in three Persons--God the Father, God the Son 

and Messiah, and God the Holy Spirit. 

Jews believe that their theistic worldview is 

based on revelation from God. In other words, 

God reveals or shows people that He exists and 

what He is like. He reveals Himself to people in 

two primary ways. First, Jews believe that God 

speaks to people through the creation. Just by 

looking at the world, all people can know there is 

a wise and Almighty Creator. Jews also believe 

that God revealed special truth to people about 


36 

 

Theistic Worldviews: Many different kinds of worldviews exist today. In fact, 

so many kinds of worldviews exist that it’s hard to identify all of them by name. 

One way to help us study them is to organize them into categories according 

to their beliefs about God and nature or the universe. When we think about 

all the different worldviews this way, we find there are three major groups or 

categories. We’ll explore the first category in Topic 1. 

Some people hold a worldview that includes a belief in one Personal and living 

God. This God is the Creator of the universe, including the world and everything 

in it. This God is separate from His creation though He is very much involved 

in sustaining it. He is an all-powerful Personal spiritual being, Who is also allpresent, 

all-knowing, and absolutely holy. This God is eternal, unchanging, and 

worthy of our worship. 

A worldview that includes a belief in one Personal and living Creator God is 

called a theistic worldview. The name for this category comes from the ancient 

Greek word theos, meaning God. A theistic worldview is found in three of the 

world’s major or great religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Although 

each of these religions is theistic—holding a belief in one Personal Creator 

God—we’ll see that there are differences in what each believes about this 

Personal God. 


What is a theistic worldview? 

From what root word and language do we get the words "theism" 

and '"theistic"? 

What belief about God do theistic worldviews hold? 

Which three world religions are based on a theistic worldview? 

Do these three religions believe exactly the same thing about God, 

the Creator? How do you think they differ? 

Explain that the different views of God held by each of the three great theistic 

religions are explored later in the lesson. 


God Makes a covenant with Abraham 


Have students locate the definition for theism (SWT p. 36). 


WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2a, Theism: A worldview based on a 

belief in the existence of an Almighty Personal God, Who is also the Creator 

of the universe. 

Discuss briefly, modifying the definition if desired based on students' understanding 

and suggestions. 

Judaism 

Have students read Judaism (SWT pp. 36-37). 

Judaism is the great world religion that was developed and 

Lesson 2 

36 

practiced by the ancient Hebrew people, whom God chose 

Topic 1 

Worldviews That Believe Both God and Nature Exist 

and formed into the nation of Israel from the descendants 

Theistic Worldviews: Many different kinds of Judaism is the great world religion that was developed 

and practiced by the ancient Hebrew people, 

worldviews exist today. In fact, so many kinds 

of worldviews exist that it’s hard to identify all of whom God chose and formed into the nation of 

them by name. One way to help us study them Israel from the descendants of Abraham. 

of Abraham. 

is to organize them into categories according to 

The people who practice this theistic worldview religion are 

called Jews. Although they believe that God is a Personal 

Being and that He created the world, Jews do not believe that God is one God 

in three Persons—God the Father, God the Son and Messiah, and God the 

Holy Spirit. 

Jews believe that their theistic worldview is based on revelation from God. In 

other words, God reveals or shows people that He exists and what He is like. 

He reveals Himself to people in two primary ways. First, Jews believe that God 

speaks to people through the creation. Just by looking at 

the world, all people can know there is a wise and Almighty 

Creator. Jews also believe that God revealed 

special truth to people about Himself through 

the Old Testament books of the Bible, including 

the first five books—Genesis, Exodus, 

The Torah 

Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Jews 

refer to these five books as the Torah. Jews, however, do not 

believe that God revealed Himself through His Son Jesus or through the New 

Testament books of the Bible. 

Although you will not study Judaism in A World of Worldviews, it is important to 

understand that people who practice this religion have a theistic worldview. 

their beliefs about God and nature or the universe. 

When we look at the different worldviews this way, 

we fi nd three major groups or categories. We’ll 

explore the fi rst category in Topic 1. 

Some people hold a worldview that includes a belief 

in one Personal and living God. This God is the 

One who created the universe, including the world 

and everything in it. This God is separate from His 

creation though He is very much involved in sustaining 

it. He is an all-powerful Personal spiritual 

being, who is also all-present, all-knowing, and 

absolutely holy. This God is eternal, unchanging, 

and worthy of our worship. 

A worldview that includes a belief in one Personal 

and living Creator God is called a theistic worldview. 

The name for this category comes from 

the ancient Greek word theos, meaning God. A 

theistic worldview is found in three of the world’s 

major or great religions: Judaism, Christianity, 

and Islam. Although each of these religions is 

theistic--holding a belief in one Personal Creator 

God--we’ll see that there are differences in what 

each believes about this Personal God. 

36 

37 

Theism 

A worldview based on a belief in the existence 

of an Almighty personal God, Who 

is also the Creator of the universe 

Himself through the Old T e stament books of the 

Bible, especially the fi rst fi ve books--Genesis, 

Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. 

Jews refer to these fi ve books as the T o rah. Jews, 

however, do not believe that God revealed Himself 

through His Son Jesus or through the New T e stament 

books of the Bible. 

Although you will not study Judaism in A World 

of Worldviews, it is important to understand that 

people who practice this religion have a theistic 

worldview. 

The Torah 

Judaism 

One of three great theistic worldview 

religions based on the belief that God 

reveals truth about Himself and the universe 

through the creation and through 

the words of the T o rah 

The people who practice this theistic worldview 

religion are called Jews. Although they believe that 

God is a Personal Being and that He created the 

world, Jews do not believe that God is one God 

in three Persons--God the Father, God the Son 

and Messiah, and God the Holy Spirit. 

Jews believe that their theistic worldview is 

based on revelation from God. In other words, 

God reveals or shows people that He exists and 

what He is like. He reveals Himself to people in 

two primary ways. First, Jews believe that God 

speaks to people through the creation. Just by 

looking at the world, all people can know there is 

a wise and Almighty Creator. Jews also believe 

that God revealed special truth to people about 



Christianity is another of the world’s great religions. 

People who embrace this theistic worldview 

religion are called Christians. Christians believe 

that God is one Personal living Creator God. But 

unlike Judaism that views God as only one Person, 

Christianity views and understands God as one 

God in three Persons. You may remember from 

earlier studies that Christians refer to this important 

biblical truth as the doctrine of the Trinity. While 

Christians believe in one God, they understand 

Him to be one God in three equal but unique 

Persons--God the Father, God the Son, and God 

the Holy Spirit. As you may already know and will 

study more later, God the Father sent God the 

Son, Jesus Christ, to live on the earth to redeem 

His sinful image-bearers and the earth from the 

curse of the fall. 

Christians also believe that their theistic worldview 

is based on revelation from God. Like Jews, Christians 

believe that God speaks to people through 

what can be observed in the creation. Like Jews, 

Christians believe that God reveals special truth 

about Himself through the Old T e stament books of 

the Bible. Unlike Jews, however, Christians believe 

that God reveals Himself through God the Son, 

Jesus Christ. And also unlike Jews, Christians 

believe that God reveals truth about Himself in 

the New T e stament books of the Bible. Christians 

understand that God is the one true God in three 

Persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit--from the 

truths God reveals in the words of all the books 

in the Old and New T e staments. 


Which theistic religion was practiced by the ancient Hebrews? 

What are people called who embrace or practice Judaism? 

Into what nation of people did God form the Hebrew people? 

What special role did God create for Israel to fulfill in His plan for 

creation? 

How is the theistic worldview of Judaism like biblical Christian theism? 

How is it different? 

On what is the theistic worldview of Judaism based? 


The Judaic worldview is also 

shaped by the Talmud, the 

authoritative writings that interpret 

and apply the Torah to 

Jewish life. 

Students may be familiar with 

synagogues, Hanukkah, and 

Bar Mitzvah celebrations or 

clothing worn by orthodox 

Jews. 

37 


37



What is the Torah? 

In what ways have you seen the Judaic theistic worldview expressed 

in our community? 

OPTION: DISPLAY a Torah (Hebrew or Hebrew/English). Compare it with the 

first five books of the Old Testament. 

Have students locate the definition for Judaism (SWT p. 37). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2b, Judaism: One of three great theistic 

worldview religions based on the belief that God reveals truth about Himself 

and the universe through the creation and through the words of the Old Testament, 

including the Torah. 

37 

The biblical Christian worldview 

is developed in the lessons of 

Unit 2. Only its uniqueness as a 

theistic worldview is introduced 

here. 

Himself through the Old T e stament books of the 

Bible, especially the first five books--Genesis, 

Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. 

Jews refer to these five books as the T o rah. Jews, 

however, do not believe that God revealed Himself 

through His Son Jesus or through the New T e stament 

books of the Bible. 

Although you will not study Judaism in A World 

of Worldviews, it is important to understand that 

people who practice this religion have a theistic 

worldview. 

Lesson 2 

The Torah 

Judaism 



reveals truth about Himself and the universe 

through the creation and through 

the words of the T o rah 


In the lessons of Unit 2, you will study the biblical 

Christian worldview--its view of God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. The title of Unit 

2 is “Biblical Christianity: The True View of God 

and the World.” 

38 

Christianity 



reveals truth about Himself and the 

universe through creation, through the 

words of the Old and New T e staments, 



Christianity is another of the world’s great religions. 

People who embrace this theistic worldview 

religion are called Christians. Christians believe 

that God is one Personal living Creator God. But 

unlike Judaism that views God as only one Person, 

Christianity views and understands God as one 

God in three Persons. You may remember from 

earlier studies that Christians refer to this important 

biblical truth as the doctrine of the Trinity. While 

Christians believe in one God, they understand 

Him to be one God in three equal but unique 

Persons--God the Father, God the Son, and God 

the Holy Spirit. As you may already know and will 

study more later, God the Father sent God the 

Son, Jesus Christ, to live on the earth to redeem 

His sinful image-bearers and the earth from the 

curse of the fall. 

Christians also believe that their theistic worldview 

is based on revelation from God. Like Jews, Christians 

believe that God speaks to people through 

what can be observed in the creation. Like Jews, 

Christians believe that God reveals special truth 

about Himself through the Old T e stament books of 

the Bible. Unlike Jews, however, Christians believe 

that God reveals Himself through God the Son, 

Jesus Christ. And also unlike Jews, Christians 

believe that God reveals truth about Himself in 

the New T e stament books of the Bible. Christians 

understand that God is the one true God in three 

Persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit--from the 

truths God reveals in the words of all the books 

in the Old and New T e staments. 

Islam is the third great world religion based on a 

theistic worldview. People who practice Islam are 

called Muslims. Like Christians and Jews, Muslims 

believe in one living Creator God. Like Jews, they 

believe that God is one Person, not one God in 

three Persons as Christians believe. Later, you will 

learn about other important differences in Muslims’ 

and Christians’ beliefs about God. 

Muslims, like Christians and Jews, believe that 

their theistic worldview is based on revelation from 

God. However, Muslims believe that God spoke 

through the angel Gabriel to a man named Muhammad 

over a period of several years. Muslims 

believe Muhammad received God’s messages 

while he was alone in the desert. Muhammad was 

called God’s prophet, telling others the messages 

Muslims believe he received from God. 

Many years after Muhammad died, his teachings 

were written down in a book called the Koran or 

Qur’an. Muslims have also developed their theistic 

worldview from the first fi ve books of the Old 

Te 

stament or T o rah, the Psalms of David, and the 

Gospels of the New T e stament. However, Muslims 

do not believe everything in these books of the 

Bible. Muslims believe that Jews and Christians 

have changed or corrupted the original versions 

of these books of the Bible. 


37 

38 

 



Christianity 

Have students read Christianity (SWT pp. 37-38). 

Christianity is another of the world’s great religions. People who embrace this 

theistic worldview religion are called Christians. Christians believe that God is 

one Personal living Creator God. But unlike Judaism that views God as only one 

Person, Christianity views and understands God as one God in three Persons. 

You may remember from earlier studies that Christians refer to this important 

biblical truth as the doctrine of the Trinity. While Christians 

believe in one God, they understand Him to be one God 

in three equal but unique Persons—God the Father, God 

the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. As you may already 

know and will study more later, God the Father sent God 

the Son, Jesus Christ, to live on the earth to redeem His 

sinful image-bearers and the earth from the curse of the fall. 

Christians also believe that their theistic worldview is 

based on revelation from God. Like Jews, Christians 

believe that God speaks to people through what can be 

observed in the creation. Like Jews, Christians believe 

that God reveals special truth about Himself through the 

Old Testament books of the Bible. Unlike Jews, however, Christians believe 

that God reveals Himself through God the Son, Jesus Christ. And 

also unlike Jews, Christians believe that God reveals truth about 

Himself in the New Testament books of the Bible. Christians understand 

that God is the one true God in three Persons—Father, 

Son, and Holy Spirit—from the truths God reveals in the words 

of all the books in the Old and New Testaments. 

In the lessons of Unit 2, you will study the biblical Christian worldview—its view 

of God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. The title of Unit 2 is 

“Biblical Christianity: The True View of God and the World.” 





How is biblical Christian theism like Judaic theism? How is it different? 

On what do Christians base their theistic worldview? 

On what beliefs about revelation do Jews and Christians agree? 

On what beliefs about revelation do Jews and Christians differ? 

From where do the words "Christian" and "Christianity" come? 

Who is Jesus Christ? 

Why is Jesus unique among all people who have ever lived on 

earth? 

What role did God send Jesus to earth to fulfill? 

What is the Bible? 

Have students locate the definition for Christianity (SWT p. 38). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2c, Christianity: One of three great 

theistic worldview religions based on the belief that God reveals truth about 

Himself and the universe through creation, through the words of the Old and 

New Testaments, and personally through Jesus Christ. 



Islam 

Have students read Islam (SWT pp. 38-39). 

Muslims, like Christians and Jews, believe that their 

theistic worldview is based on revelation from God. 

However, Muslims believe that God spoke through the 

angel Gabriel to a man named Muhammad over a period 

of several years. Muslims believe Muhammad received 

God’s messages while he was alone in the desert. 

Muhammad was called God’s prophet, telling others the messages Muslims 

believe he received from God. 

Christian worldview--its view of God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. The title of Unit 

2 is “Biblical Christianity: The True View of God 

and the World.” 

38 

Christianity 



reveals truth about Himself and the 

universe through creation, through the 

words of the Old and New T e staments, 


 

Islam is the third great world religion based on a theistic worldview. People who 

Lesson 2 

38 

practice Islam are called Muslims. Like Christians and Jews, Muslims believe 

Islam is the third great world religion based on a 

theistic worldview. People who practice Islam are 

called Muslims. Like Christians and Jews, Muslims 

believe in one living Creator God. Like Jews, they 

in one living Creator God. Like Jews, they believe that God is one Person, not 

believe that God is one Person, not one God in 

three Persons as Christians believe. Later, you will 

learn about other important differences in Muslims’ 

and Christians’ beliefs about God. 

one God in three Persons as Christians believe. Later, you will learn about other 

Muslims, like Christians and Jews, believe that 

their theistic worldview is based on revelation from 

God. However, Muslims believe that God spoke 

important differences in Muslims’ and Christians’ beliefs about God. 

In the lessons of Unit 2, you will study the biblical 

through the angel Gabriel to a man named Muhammad 

over a period of several years. Muslims 

believe Muhammad received God’s messages 

while he was alone in the desert. Muhammad was 

called God’s prophet, telling others the messages 

Muslims believe he received from God. 

Many years after Muhammad died, his teachings 

were written down in a book called the Koran or 

Qur’an. Muslims have also developed their theistic 

worldview from the first five books of the Old 

Te 

stament or T o rah, the Psalms of David, and the 

Gospels of the New T e stament. However, Muslims 

do not believe everything in these books of the 

Bible. Muslims believe that Jews and Christians 

have changed or corrupted the original versions 

of these books of the Bible. 


Many years after Muhammad died, his teachings were written down in a book 

called the Koran or Qur’an. Muslims have also developed 

their theistic worldview from the first five books 

of the Old Testament or Torah, the Psalms of 

David, and the Gospels of the New Testament. 

However, Muslims do not believe everything 

in these books of the Bible. Muslims believe 

The Islamic worldview is also 

shaped by the Hadiths, which 

include the oral interpretations 

of the words and actions of 

Muhammad. 


39


39 



As you can see, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam 

are based on a theistic worldview--they believe in 

Islam 

the existence of an Almighty personal Creator God. 

However, you can also see that these worldviews 


do not believe the same things about the one true religions based on the belief that God 

God. Likewise, each holds different beliefs about reveals truth about Himself and the 

the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. universe through creation, through the 

words of some books of the Old and New 

As you work your way through A World of Worldviews 

this year, you will explore in more depth two 

T e staments, and through the Koran 

of these three theistic worldviews. In Unit 2, you will 

study “Biblical Christianity: The True View of God 

and the World.” In Unit 3, you will study “Islam: An 

Unbiblical View of God and the World.” 

that Jews and Christians have changed or corrupted the original versions of 

these books of the Bible. 

As you can see, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are based on a theistic 

worldview—they believe in the existence of an Almighty Personal Creator God. 

However, you can also see that these worldviews do not believe the same 

things about the one true God. Likewise, each holds different beliefs about the 


As you work your way through A World of Worldviews this year, you will explore 

in more depth two of these three theistic worldviews. In Unit 2, you will study 

“Biblical Christianity: The True View of God and the World.” In Unit 3, you will 

study “Islam: An Unbiblical View of God and the World.” 


39 


What is the third great world religion based on a theistic worldview? 

What are people who practice Islam called? 

How is the Islamic view of God basically different from the biblical 

Christian view? 

Who is Muhammad? 

On what do Muslims base their view of God and the world? 

What is the Koran? 

What parts of the Old and New Testaments do Muslims believe to be 

revelation from God? 

How does the Islamic view of the Torah, the Psalms, and the Gospels 

differ from the Jewish and Christian view? 

OPTION: DISPLAY a Koran (Arabic or Arabic/English). 

Have students locate the definition for Islam (SWT p. 39). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2d, Islam: One of three great theistic 

worldview religions based on the belief that God reveals truth about Himself 

and the universe through creation, through the words of some books of the Old 

and New Testaments, and through the Koran. 



If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign The Main Points (SWT 

pp. 41-42). If you prefer, create comprehension, application, and enrichment 

activities of your own. 






topic 2. worldviews that believe only nature exists 


In contrast to theism and theistic worldviews that view God as the Ultimate Reality 

and Creator of the physical cosmos, naturalism views the material universe as the 

only and, therefore, ultimate reality. God simply does not exist, or if He might exist 

(agnosticism), He is irrelevant to the natural world and the issues of life. Because 

the concept of creation necessitates a Creator, which naturalists reject, the matter 

that makes up the physical cosmos is believed to be eternal. It has to have always 

existed. It simply is and always has been, without a Creator. 

Therefore, the basis for a naturalistic worldview cannot be found in revelation from 

a Higher Authority or God. Only things that can be observed, touched, or proven 

to exist through the scientific method are real. Everything that happens within the 

material world is caused by forces or factors contained within the material world 

itself. There is no "outside intervention." To admit such a possibility would open the 

door to speculation about a Creator or an Intelligent Force, concepts that are not 

permitted in a naturalistic worldview. 

Naturalism is an inclusive term for a number of worldviews, including Materialism, 

Scientism, Atheism, and Secular Humanism. Although each of these worldviews 

bears some distinguishing characteristics, the essential belief that binds them 

together is that nature is the ultimate reality. 

Naturalism is an increasingly aggressive worldview in Western cultures, competing 

directly with all theistic worldviews, especially biblical Christian theism. Although 

the West is considered to be "Christian" in the broadest sense of the term (though 

considered post-Christian by many), true biblical Christian theism is being syncretized 

with elements of naturalism, or, in some cases, completely abandoned in favor of 

naturalism. 


Have students turn to Topic 2 (SWT p. 43). Have them read the title. Have them 

identify a missing element in these worldviews. 

Have students read Naturalistic Worldviews (SWT p. 43). 

 

Naturalistic Worldviews: Some worldviews hold that the natural or physical 

earth and universe are all that exist. These worldviews do not include beliefs 

about a Personal God except the belief that God does not 

exist. These worldviews are called naturalistic worldviews. 

They are identified by the names naturalism, materialism, 

and atheism. Each of these has some similar and some 

different beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, 

43 


Topic 2 

Worldviews That Believe Only Nature Exists 

Naturalistic Worldviews: Some worldviews hold the Greek word theos hat t means God. Adding the 

that the natural or physical earth and universe are 

letter a to these words changes their meaning. 

all that exist. These worldviews do not include 

The prefix a can mean without or not. Therefore, 

beliefs about a Personal God except the belief 

atheism is the word used to describe a worldview 

that God does not exist. These worldviews are 

that believes God does not exist. 

called naturalistic worldviews. They are identifi ed 

by the names naturalism, materialism, and athe- 

The naturalistic worldview or naturalism is based 

ism. Each of these has some similar and some on 

only what we can discover and understand 

different beliefs about God, the universe, people, 

with our minds and our senses. It is not based on 

truth, and right and wrong. 

the belief that God exists and reveals or speaks 

truth to people about the world. People with a 

naturalistic worldview believe that the truth about 

what exists can be known only through science. 

And they believe science proves that the natural 

or 

material world is all there is and all there ever 

will be. 

You can see the root word nature in the word 

naturalism. This worldview holds that only things 

that can be seen or proven to exist in nature are 

real. 

You can see the root word material in the word 

materialism. This worldview is very similar to In 

the lessons of Unit 4, you will learn more about 

naturalism. It holds that only material or physical 

how a naturalistic worldview looks at God, the 

things exist or are real. If something is immaterial 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. The 

(not material) such as God or your spirit, then it 

title of Unit 4 is “Naturalism: An Unbiblical View 

does not exist or is not real. 

of 

the World Without God.” 

Because we cannot touch or see God or conduct 

Naturalism 

a laboratory experiment to prove He exists, people 

who hold a naturalistic or materialistic worldview An atheistic worldview based on the 

usually also hold an atheistic worldview. If you belief that our senses and science prove 

look carefully at the words atheistic and atheism, that the material universe is all that exists 

and is real 

you will see the words theistic and theism. As you 

learned in Topic 1, theistic and theism come from 


43 


41


43 



Topic 2 

Worldviews That Believe Only Nature Exists 

Naturalistic Worldviews: Some worldviews hold the Greek word theos hat t means God. Adding the 

that the natural or physical earth and universe are 

letter a to these words changes their meaning. 

all that exist. These worldviews do not include 

The prefix a can mean without or not. Therefore, 

beliefs about a Personal God except the belief 

atheism is the word used to describe a worldview 

that God does not exist. These worldviews are 


called naturalistic worldviews. They are identifi ed 

by the names naturalism, materialism, and athe- 

The naturalistic worldview or naturalism is based 

ism. Each of these has some similar and some on 

only what we can discover and understand 


with our minds and our senses. It is not based on 


the belief that God exists and reveals or speaks 

truth to people about the world. People with a 

naturalistic worldview believe that the truth about 

what exists can be known only through science. 

And they believe science proves that the natural 

or 

material world is all there is and all there ever 

will be. 

You can see the root word nature in the word 

naturalism. This worldview holds that only things 

that can be seen or proven to exist in nature are 

real. 

You can see the root word material in the word 

materialism. This worldview is very similar to In 

the lessons of Unit 4, you will learn more about 

naturalism. It holds that only material or physical 

how a naturalistic worldview looks at God, the 

things exist or are real. If something is immaterial 

universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. The 

(not material) such as God or your spirit, then it 

title of Unit 4 is “Naturalism: An Unbiblical View 

does not exist or is not real. 

of 

the World Without God.” 

Because we cannot touch or see God or conduct 

Naturalism 

a laboratory experiment to prove He exists, people 

who hold a naturalistic or materialistic worldview An atheistic worldview based on the 

usually also hold an atheistic worldview. If you belief that our senses and science prove 

look carefully at the words atheistic and atheism, that the material universe is all that exists 

and is real 

you will see the words theistic and theism. As you 

learned in Topic 1, theistic and theism come from 


43 


You can see the root word nature in the word naturalism. This worldview holds 

that only things that can be seen or proven to exist in nature are real. 

You can see the root word material in the word materialism. This worldview is 

very similar to naturalism. It holds that only material or physical things exist or 

are real. If something is immaterial (not material) such as God or your spirit, 

then it does not exist or is not real. 

Because we cannot touch or see God or conduct a laboratory experiment to 

prove He exists, people who hold a naturalistic or materialistic worldview usually 

also hold an atheistic worldview. If you look carefully at the words atheistic 

and atheism, you will see the words theistic and theism. As you learned in Topic 

1, theistic and theism come from the Greek word theos that means God. Adding 

the letter a to these words changes their meaning. The prefix a can mean 

without or not. Therefore, atheism is the word used to describe a worldview 


The naturalistic worldview or naturalism is based on only what we can discover 

and understand with our minds and our senses. It is not based on the belief that 

God exists and reveals or speaks truth to people about 

the world. People with a naturalistic worldview believe that 

the truth about what exists can be known only through 

science. And they believe science proves that the natural 

or material world is all there is and all there ever will be. 

In the lessons of Unit 4, you will learn more about how a naturalistic worldview 

looks at God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. The title of Unit 

4 is “Naturalism: An Unbiblical View of the World Without God.” 


What is naturalism? 

From what root word does the word "naturalism" come? 

What word refers to someone who believes God does not exist? 

What root word and prefix create the word "atheist"? 

If people who hold a naturalistic worldview do not believe in the existence 

of a Creator God, how do they explain the existence of matter 

(the physical material that makes up the physical universe)? 

On what do naturalists base their worldview? 

How does the basis for naturalism differ from the basis for theistic 

worldviews? 

Why do people who hold a naturalistic worldview deny the existence 

of God, spirits, and the human soul? 

Have students locate the definition for naturalism (SWT p. 43). 



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2e, Naturalism: An atheistic worldview 

based on the belief that our senses and science prove that the material universe 

is all that exists and all that is real. 




Have students locate the Lesson 2 Memory Verse (SWT p. 44). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 2 Memory Verse, Romans 1:20. 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal 

Lesson 2 

44 

power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from 

Memory Verse 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities--his eternal power and 

what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 

divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, 

so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 

Have students read and recite the verse. Discuss in relation to the tenets of 

naturalism. 


This verse tells us that God has invisible qualities. What are God's 

invisible qualities? 

Is God invisible? Why? 

This verse says God's invisible qualities can be seen. Can they? How? 

What does this verse mean when it says "men are without excuse"? 

Why do people who hold a naturalistic worldview have no excuse for 

not believing God exists? 

Topic 3 

Worldviews That Believe Nature Is God and God Is Nature 

The New Age Worldview: Some worldviews hold The word pantheism is often used when referring 

that there is no difference between God and things 

to the New Age worldview. The prefix pan means 

that exist in the natural or physical earth and universe. 

These worldviews do not believe that God you already know refers to a worldview that be- 

all. When placed before the word theism, which 

is a Personal Being. In these worldviews, “God” is 

lieves in one personal Creator God, the new word 

an impersonal force, spirit, or energy. Everything 

becomes pantheism. Pantheism is a worldview 

that exists is part of this impersonal spiritual or 

that believes that all things are “God,” and this 

energy force called “God.” In other words, the earth 

includes you and everything in the universe. 

is God, I am God, and you are God. Everything is 

part of this one impersonal “God-force.” 

The name “new age” may sound at first like a 

strange one for this mystical worldview that believes 

everything is God and God is everything. 

But people who hold this worldview believe that 

a 

new age or time of peace and harmony on 

earth will begin when enough others come to 

understand that everything that exists is part of 

one spiritual or energy force called God. As you 

will learn later, there is nothing “new” about this 

worldview. It includes worldview beliefs held by 

people from earliest history. Y o u will also learn 

that these beliefs are unbiblical. 

The New Age beliefs about God, the universe, 

These worldviews are called by many names, 

people, truth, and right and wrong are not based 

but perhaps the most familiar include New Age on 

special revelation from God. Many of this 

and spiritualism. The religions of Hinduism and 

worldview’s beliefs are based on ancient writings of 

Buddhism also include the belief that God is all, 

philosophers and magicians. They are also based 

and all is God. 

on 

the writings of people called astrologers, who 

44 



topic 3. worldviews that believe 

nature is god and god is nature 

Biblical Christian theism posits the existence of an Almighty and Personal Creator 

God. It also affirms that God is separate from or transcendent over His creation. 

(Students will explore this concept in Unit 2.) Naturalism, of course, denies the 

existence of God and holds that matter is uncreated and, therefore, eternal. In 

opposition to both theism and naturalism, the New Age worldview is based on the 

belief that everything that exists is part of a universal oneness. This oneness is 

often referred to as God, but unlike the God of biblical Christian theism, the New 

Age "God" is an impersonal spiritual force or energy inseparable from the universe 

and everything it contains. Therefore, there is no difference between God, people, 

a rock, or a vegetable. The New Age worldview is essentially pantheistic, i.e., God 

and the world are one impersonal spiritual reality and the only reality. Although there 

are many expressions of pantheism and many expressions of New Age thought, 

the belief that God is all and all is God is common among them. 

In the book Another Gospel, Ruth Tucker describes the rise and popularity of the 

New Age movement in Western culture. She, like others who have studied and 


43



written about this movement or worldview, acknowledges that it is difficult to define. 

In fact, it defies definition by its very nature. Tucker says the following: 

The most popular and widely publicized new religion in recent years has been the New 

Age movement, a difficult-to-define variety of mystical, spiritualistic, and occult groups 

that above all else are not new. From channeling to crystals to harmonic convergence, 

celebrities and ordinary citizens have been captivated by this increasingly popular religious 

trend (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1989, p. 319). 

Today, the New Age spirituality continues to draw millions of Westerners into its grip. 

Why? Because like the deceitful promise Satan made in the Garden of Eden, the New 

Age movement promises personal liberation and a new era of global harmony that 

can only occur when enough people realize that they are God and then recapture 

their Godlikeness that is lying dormant within them. 

New Age thinking is based on ancient occult, pagan/animist practices as well as on 

the more formalized writings of Eastern religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, 

with their wide variety of yoga and meditation practices. The New Age worldview 

incorporates elements of astrology, Theosophy, Transcendentalism, Scientology, 

and a multitude of psycho-spiritual writings and movements. It is often packaged 

in sophisticated corporate seminars designed to help employees reach their 

maximum potential for the company. The New Age worldview is blended smoothly 

into educational programs that teach students how to get in touch with their inner 

potential and to become self-actualized beings. In recent years, it has become part 

of the training for the medical professions. 

The New Age worldview is packaged and promoted through music, books, and 

entertainment. New Age shops blatantly sell occult and other "spiritual" items to 

those enticed or entrapped by the promises of the movement. 


Have students turn to Topic 3 (SWT p. 44). Have them read the title. Have them 

share their thoughts about what it means and whether or not it is reasonable. 

Have them read The New Age Worldview. 

Lesson 2 

Memory Verse 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities--his eternal power and 

divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, 

so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 

Topic 3 

Worldviews That Believe Nature Is God and God Is Nature 

The New Age Worldview: Some worldviews hold The word pantheism is often used when referring 

that there is no difference between God and things 

to the New Age worldview. The prefi x pan means 

that exist in the natural or physical earth and universe. 

These worldviews do not believe that God 

you already know refers to a worldview that be- 

all. When placed before the word theism, which 

is a Personal Being. In these worldviews, “God” is 

lieves in one personal Creator God, the new word 

an impersonal force, spirit, or energy. Everything 

becomes pantheism. Pantheism is a worldview 

that exists is part of this impersonal spiritual or 

that believes that all things are “God,” and this 

energy force called “God.” In other words, the earth 

includes you and everything in the universe. 

is God, I am God, and you are God. Everything is 

part of this one impersonal “God-force.” 

The name “new age” may sound at first like a 

strange one for this mystical worldview that believes 

everything is God and God is everything. 

But people who hold this worldview believe that 

a 

new age or time of peace and harmony on 

earth will begin when enough others come to 

understand that everything that exists is part of 

one spiritual or energy force called God. As you 

will learn later, there is nothing “new” about this 

worldview. It includes worldview beliefs held by 

people from earliest history. Y o u will also learn 

that these beliefs are unbiblical. 

The New Age beliefs about God, the universe, 

These worldviews are called by many names, 

people, truth, and right and wrong are not based 

but perhaps the most familiar include New Age on 

special revelation from God. Many of this 

and spiritualism. The religions of Hinduism and 

worldview’s beliefs are based on ancient writings of 

Buddhism also include the belief that God is all, 

philosophers and magicians. They are also based 

and all is God. 

on 

the writings of people called astrologers, who 

44 

 

The New Age Worldview: Some worldviews hold that there is no difference 

between God and things that exist in the natural or physical earth and universe. 

These worldviews do not believe that God is a Personal Being. In these worldviews, 

“God” is an impersonal force, spirit, or energy. Everything that exists is 

part of this impersonal spiritual or energy force called “God.” In other words, 

the earth is God, I am God, and you are God. Everything is part of this one 

impersonal “God-force.” 

These worldviews are called by many names, but perhaps 

the most familiar include New Age and spiritualism. The 

religions of Hinduism and Buddhism also include the 

belief that God is all, and all is God. 

44 




The word pantheism is often used when referring to the New Age worldview. The 

prefix pan means all. When placed before the word theism, which you already 

know refers to a worldview that believes in one Personal Creator God, the new 

word becomes pantheism. Pantheism is a worldview that believes that all things 

are “God,” and this includes you and everything in the universe. 


The name “new age” may sound at first like a strange one for this mystical 

worldview that believes everything is God and God is everything. But people 

who hold this worldview believe that a new age or time of peace and harmony 

on earth will begin when enough people come to understand that everything 

that exists is part of one spiritual or energy force called God. As you will learn 

later, there is nothing “new” about this worldview. It includes worldview beliefs 

held by people from earliest history. You will also learn that these beliefs are 

unbiblical. 

The New Age beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and 

wrong are not based on special revelation from God. Many of this worldview’s 

beliefs are based on ancient writings of philosophers and magicians. They are 

also based on the writings of people called astrologers, who believe they can 

understand the truth about the world by studying the position and movement of 

stars. Many beliefs of the New Age worldview are also 

based on human imagination and superstition. Again, 

people who hold this worldview have very different 

beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right 

and wrong than people who hold a theistic or even a 

naturalistic worldview. 

45 


believe they can understand the truth about the You will study this very popular mystical worldview 

world by studying the position and movement of 

in Unit 5. The title of Unit 5 is “The New Age: An 

stars. Many beliefs of the New Age worldview are Unbiblical View of God as the World and the World 

also based on human imagination and superstition. 

as God.” 

Again, people who hold this worldview have very 


truth, and right and wrong than people who hold 

New Age Worldview 

a theistic or even a naturalistic worldview. 

A primarily pantheistic worldview based 

on mystical beliefs that God and everything 

in the universe are one impersonal 

spiritual being or energy 

You will study this very popular mystical worldview in Unit 5. The title of Unit 

5 is “The New Age: An Unbiblical View of God as the World and the World as 

God.” 


45 


What is the New Age worldview? 

How do New Age beliefs about God differ from biblical Christian 

beliefs? 

How do New Age beliefs about people differ from biblical Christian 

beliefs? 

On what is the New Age worldview based? 

What evidence of the New Age worldview have you seen in our community? 

In the media? In entertainment? 

Why do you think the New Age worldview is attractive to people 

today? What hope does it promise people? 

We say that the promises of the New Age worldview are not really 

new at all. Can you think of the first time the promises of this unbiblical 

worldview were presented to God's image-bearers? What happened? 

Have students locate the definition for New Age Worldview (SWT p. 45). 

Review the fall as recorded in 

Genesis 3. Students who have 

participated in Building on the 

Rock in earlier grades should 

have a good understanding of 

the importance of this key event 

and Satan's promise to Eve that 

she would become like God if 

only she would eat the forbidden 

fruit. 


45



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 2f, New Age Worldview: A primarily 

pantheistic worldview based on mystical beliefs that God and everything in the 

universe are one impersonal spiritual being or energy. 



If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign The Main Points (SWT p. 

47), Writing About it (SWT p. 48), and Hiding God's Word (SWT, pp. 49-50). 


your own. 


LESSON 3 

God's great story 

Creation, Fall, and Redemption—A Cosmic Drama in Three Acts 

Introduction 


Lesson 3 sets the stage for the study of the biblical Christian worldview in Lessons 

5-10 by having students look at their lives as well as God's plan for creation within 

the context of story. The lesson is designed to show students that all peoples' lives 

are composites of stories lived out or shaped by one or more overarching or grand 

narratives that they consciously or unconsciously embrace. In the case of God's 

great narrative, the central themes of creation, fall, and redemption are graphically 

pictured as three acts of a cosmic drama in which Christians live out the smaller 

stories of their lives. The details of this metanarrative are unpacked as the essential 

affirmations of the biblical Christian worldview in later lessons. 


19 

For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, 20 and through him God 

reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven 

and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. 

Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 

Objectives 

• Students will identify and share some of the large and small stories of their lives 

that are incorporated into their overall life stories. 

• Students will explain the relationship between a person's worldview and the 

stories of his or her life. 




See Syllabus, p. xvi 




lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














• Students will explore God's plan for creation within the context of a three-act play, 

God's Great Story. 

• Students will begin to make connections between God's great story and their 

personal life stories. 

Materials 

Worldview Posters 

Creation Posters 


47





Lesson 3 Memory Verses Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 

Word/Phrase 3a 

Definition 3a 

Definition 3b 

Definition 3c 

Definition 3d 

Redeem 

The Creation: The heavens and the earth and 

everything in them, both visible and invisible, 

created out of nothing by the word of God and 

sustained by Him 

The Fall: The entrance of sin into the creation 

through the temptation of Satan and disobedience 

of Adam and Eve, resulting in disharmony in all 

the relationships of creation 

Redeem: To pay something in order to free a 

person from a debt, punishment, or captivity 

God's Plan for Redemption: God's plan to redeem 

and restore harmony in each relationship of 

creation through the payment of Jesus' death on 

the cross and His resurrection 


Note: Student Worktext Activities 

(SWT pp. 63-68) for Lesson 

3 are designed as a culminating 

activity on Day 3 of the lesson 

presentation. See Syllabus, 

pp. xvi. 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 


Topics 1-4 





Group Discussion 

Before and After: Lead a discussion to help students contemplate and share 

what they think the perfection of creation in the beginning might have been 

like. Then have them identify various kinds of changes in the relationships 

of creation since the fall. Have them identify institutions as well as products 

necessitated by the fall that are often considered part of normal life on earth 

(i.e., hospitals, law enforcement, armies, medicines, eye glasses, locks and 

keys, clothing, cemeteries, etc.). 

Group Activity 

Before and After: Have students collect pictures representing life on earth 

before and after the fall. Display on two bulletin boards or have students 

create individual contrasting collages. 

Note: Pictures representing the world at creation can be only representative 

since all creation has been affected by the fall. 


God's Great Story 





getting started—the stories of our lives 


People seldom if ever sit around talking about their worldview. Rather, they talk 

about the events or stories of their lives, which, of course, have been shaped by 

their worldview. Stories may provide insights into or even a clear understanding of 

a person's worldview, but most people never stop to think about the stories they 

hear or tell within the context of worldview. 

Before exploring the formal concept of worldview, it may be helpful to think of people 

living out the stories of their lives within the context of an overarching grand story or 

metanarrative. Each of these grand stories includes one or more major themes within 

which the concepts of God, the cosmos, people, truth, and values are understood. 

In naturalism, for example, we find the themes of chance and evolution. People 

who embrace these metanarrative themes live out the smaller stories of their lives 

essentially within this context. Biblical Christians, on the other hand, believe in God's 

grand story, which He has revealed and which is framed within the major themes 

of 1) the creation, 2) the fall, and 3) God's plan for redemption. 

One way to explore God's grand story is to think of it as a play consisting of three 

major acts corresponding to the three foundational biblical doctrines or themes 

of creation, fall, and redemption. We could include a fourth act representing the 

final glorification of creation at Jesus' return when He will create a new heavens 

and earth. The script for this drama is, of course, the Bible. As the script unfolds, it 

reveals the essential truths for understanding life and the world—truths about God, 

the universe, people, truth, and values. For Christians, these core truths form their 

worldview—the framework of beliefs through which they interpret the world and that 

determine their behavior. 


Have students turn to the Unit 2 title page (SWT p. 51). Have them study the 

icon for Unit 2. Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. 


How do the parts of this picture relate to the title of Unit 2? 

What word in the title is extremely important? Why? 

Do you think the word "true" will describe any other worldview? Why? 

Why not? 

51 

UNIT 2 

BIBLICAL CHRISTIANITY 

THE TRUE VIEW OF GOD 

AND THE WORLD 

Explain that Unit 2 explores the biblical Christian view of God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. 


51 


49



 

Have students turn to Getting Started (SWT p. 52). Have them read the title 

and subtitle of Lesson 3. 

DISPLAY a Bible. 


Who is the author of this book? 

What great story is told or revealed to us within these pages? 

If we were to divide this story into three main parts, what would we 

name them? Why? 

Do you believe this story is truth or fiction? Why? 

Explain that Lesson 3 explores the Bible within the context of a story, God's 

true and great story of the creation, the fall, and His plan for redemption of His 

creation. 

LESSON 3 

Creation, Fall, and Redemption--Part 1 

God‛s Great Story--A Play in Three Acts 

Getting G Started--The Stories of Our Lives 

Te lling Stories: Everyone’s life is full of stories. Our Stories and Our Worldview: In Lessons 1 

Think about what you and your friends talked and 2, you were introduced to a world of worldviews. 

You learned that a worldview is a set of 

about when school began this year. You probably 

told stories about your vacations or your summer beliefs through which you view and interpret life 

sports teams. Maybe you shared stories about a and the world and that guides your choices and 

move your family made or about the birth of a new behaviors. A worldview is a set of basic beliefs 

baby in your family. And during the school year about God, the universe, people, truth, and right 

you’ll continue to share with your friends the small and wrong. 

stories and the big stories of your life. 

Now let’s link our worldview with the stories of our 

lives. As you learned earlier, people don’t stop and 

say, “Let’s see now--before I make a choice and 

act, what are my worldview beliefs telling me to 

do?” No, for the most part you make hundreds, 

perhaps thousands, of choices each day without 

thinking about your worldview. And at the end of 

the day, you’ve lived out or created several more 

small stories about your life that you could share 

with others. Some may not be too interesting--just a 

normal day, we sometimes say, while others would 

be very interesting, even exciting. But interesting or 

Why is telling stories such a big part of our lives? not, the small daily stories of our lives are shaped 

Why do we enjoy telling our stories and listening 

or affected by our deeply held worldview beliefs. 

to the stories of others? Maybe it’s because we 

believe that most of the events in our lives are 

important. Even small stories, like how a movie we 

saw on the weekend affected us, are important. 

And certainly the big stories, like how moving to 

another city or country affected us, are important. 

We want people to know about us, and we want to 

know about others, and one of the most important 

ways we get to know others and they get to know 

us is through telling stories. 


52 

 

Have students read Telling Stories (SWT p. 52). 

Telling Stories: Everyone’s life is full of stories. Think about what you and your 

friends talked about when school began this year. You probably told stories 

about your vacations or your summer sports teams. Maybe you shared stories 

about a move your family made or about the birth of a new baby in your family. 

And during the school year you’ll continue to share with your friends the small 


Why is telling stories such a big part of our lives? Why do we enjoy telling our 

stories and listening to the stories of others? Maybe it’s 

because we believe that most of the events in our lives are 

important. Even small stories, like how a movie we saw 

on the weekend affected us, are important. And certainly 

the big stories, like how moving to another city or country 

affected us, are important. We want people to know about 

us, and we want to know about others, and one of the most important ways we 

get to know others and they get to know us is through telling stories. 

Have students share the themes of some of the stories they have exchanged 

with others today. 


Why do we want to tell our stories to other people? Why do we want 

to listen to other people's stories? 

If you were to write a book about your life, of what would the book 

consist? 

What do we learn about other people through their stories? 

Do you think there could be a relationship between the many stories 

of our lives and our worldview? Why? 



 

Have students read Our Stories and Our Worldview (SWT pp. 52-53). 

Our Stories and Our Worldview: In Lessons 1 and 2, you were introduced to a 

world of worldviews. You learned that a worldview includes a set of beliefs about 

God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. And it is your worldview 

through which you view and interpret life and the world and that guides your 

choices and behaviors. 

Now let’s link our worldview with the stories of our lives. As you learned earlier, 

people don’t stop and say, “Let’s see now—before I make a choice and act, 

what are my worldview beliefs telling me to do?” No, for the most part you make 

hundreds, perhaps thousands, of choices each day without thinking about your 

worldview. And at the end of the day, you’ve lived out or created several more 

small stories about your life that you could share with others. 

Some may not be too interesting—just a normal day, 

we sometimes say, while others would be very interesting, 

even exciting. But interesting or not, the small daily stories 

of our lives are shaped or affected by our deeply held 

worldview beliefs. 


52 

LESSON 3 


God‛s Great Story--A Play in Three Acts 

Getting G Started--The Stories of Our Lives 

Te lling Stories: Everyone’s life is full of stories. Our Stories and Our Worldview: In Lessons 1 

Think about what you and your friends talked and 2, you were introduced to a world of worldviews. 

You learned that a worldview is a set of 

about when school began this year. You probably 

told stories about your vacations or your summer beliefs through which you view and interpret life 

sports teams. Maybe you shared stories about a and the world and that guides your choices and 

move your family made or about the birth of a new behaviors. A worldview is a set of basic beliefs 

baby in your family. And during the school year about God, the universe, people, truth, and right 

you’ll continue to share with your friends the small and wrong. 


Now let’s link our worldview with the stories of our 

lives. As you learned earlier, people don’t stop and 

say, “Let’s see now--before I make a choice and 

act, what are my worldview beliefs telling me to 

do?” No, for the most part you make hundreds, 

perhaps thousands, of choices each day without 

thinking about your worldview. And at the end of 

the day, you’ve lived out or created several more 

small stories about your life that you could share 

with others. Some may not be too interesting--just a 

normal day, we sometimes say, while others would 

be very interesting, even exciting. But interesting or 

Why is telling stories such a big part of our lives? not, the small daily stories of our lives are shaped 

Why do we enjoy telling our stories and listening 

or affected by our deeply held worldview beliefs. 

to the stories of others? Maybe it’s because we 

believe that most of the events in our lives are 

important. Even small stories, like how a movie we 

saw on the weekend affected us, are important. 

And certainly the big stories, like how moving to 

another city or country affected us, are important. 

We want people to know about us, and we want to 

know about others, and one of the most important 

ways we get to know others and they get to know 

us is through telling stories. 


As you might imagine, people with different worldviews write the small and big 

stories of their lives differently. A young Muslim girl, for example, although she 

has family stories, school stories, and play stories that all children experience, 

will experience and tell her stories through Islamic belief glasses. Or a young 

boy who is told from an early age that God does not exist will live out his stories 

through naturalistic belief glasses. 

53 


As you might imagine, people with different all times, the Bible. Let’s imagine for a few minutes 

that God tells us His magnifi cent story as a 

worldviews write the small and big stories of their 

lives differently. A young Muslim girl, for example, 

drama--a play in three acts. As the curtain opens 

although she has family stories, school stories, on 

the greatest drama ever written, we’ll read 

and play stories that all children experience, will 

some of the Author’s script and see the major 

experience and tell her stories through Islamic 

acts presented through symbolic pictures. As we 

belief glasses. Or a young boy who is told from 

read and watch the drama unfold, let’s see how 

an early age that God does not exist will live out 

many truths about God, the universe, people, 

his stories through naturalistic belief glasses. 

truth, and right and wrong we can identify. 

Because some of the people around us have different 

worldviews than ours, our stories are also 

infl uenced by their worldviews. This doesn’t mean 

that we adopt or accept these other worldviews, 

but they do infl uence us. Sometimes different 

worldviews cause confl icts among people and 

among nations. These confl icts create dramatic 

and often painful stories for the people involved 

in them. 

Because some of the people around us have different worldviews than ours, our 

stories are also influenced by their worldviews. This doesn’t mean that we adopt 

or accept these other worldviews, but they do influence us. Sometimes different 

worldviews cause conflicts among people and among nations. These conflicts 

create dramatic and often painful stories for the people involved in them. 

The Greatest Story of All: Before we begin to 

study the biblical Christian worldview in more 

detail, let’s look at God’s story about Himself and 

His creation. God’s story is by far the greatest 

story of all, and we live out the smaller, individual 

stories of our lives within His grand story. When 

we study God’s story, we’ll understand our own 

stories better and see how our worldview infl u- 

ences them. 

God’s great story is not fi ction. It’s about a real 

God, Who created a real world. And because 

God wants us to know the truths of His story, He 

had it written down for us in the greatest book of 

In the beginning 

God created the 

heavens and the 

earth. Genesis 1:1 



53 

Why does our worldview affect the small and big stories of our lives? 

How might the stories of someone with a naturalistic or atheistic 

worldview differ from someone with a theistic or Christian worldview? 

Do you think any of the stories of your life have been influenced 

by the stories of people who have different worldview beliefs than 

yours? Give examples. 

What kinds of stories do people who live among others who hold different 

worldviews than theirs sometimes experience? Why? 

Have students read The Greatest Story of All (SWT p. 53). 

 

The Greatest Story of All: Before we begin to study the biblical Christian 

worldview in more detail, let’s look at God’s story about Himself and His creation. 

God’s story is by far the greatest story of all, and we live out the smaller, 

individual stories of our lives within His grand story. When we study God’s 

story, we’ll understand our own stories better and see how our worldview 


51



influences them. 

God’s great story is not fiction. It’s about a real God, Who created a real world. 

And because God wants us to know the truths of His story, He 

had it written down for us in the greatest book of all times, the 

Bible. Let’s imagine for a few minutes that God tells His magnificent 

story as a drama—a play in three acts. As the curtain 

opens on the greatest drama ever written, we’ll read some of 

the Author’s script and see the major acts presented through 

symbolic pictures. As we read and watch God's Great Story 

unfold, let’s see how many truths about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong we can identify. 


In the beginning 

God created the 

heavens and the 

earth. Genesis 1:1 

Beyond the small stories of our lives, a great eternal story or drama 

exists. What story is that? 

If you were to title the three acts of God's Great Story, what titles 

would you give them? Why? 

Do you think God's Great Story includes truths about Himself? The 

universe? People? Truth? Right and wrong? 

How do you think an understanding of the truths in God's Great Story 

affects the stories of your life? Why? 

Lesson 3 

54 

topic 1. act 1. scene 1. god's good creation 


Act 1 opens with the scene of creation and the words, "In the beginning God . . . 

(Genesis 1:1). This act reveals the origin of the heavens, the earth, and everything 

in them. The six days of creation conclude with God creating His image-bearers 

and calling them to rule the earth as the crown of creation. 

Later in the Script, we learn that God not only created everything, He also sustains 

everything He created. (See Genesis 8:22, various Psalms, Colossians 1:16-17, 

Hebrews 1:3.) The scene is one of perfect harmony and includes everything that 

God created, both visible and invisible. 

Topic 1--Act 1. Scene 1. God‛s Good Creation 

God Creates: “I, the LORD, speak the truth.” 

5 Y o u made him a little lower 

Isaiah 45:19 

than the heavenly beings 

and crowned him with glory and honor. 

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and 

6 You made him ruler over the works of your hands; 

the earth. 

you put everything under his feet: 

7 all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the fi eld, 

3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there 8 the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, 

was light. 

all that swim the paths of the seas. 

Psalm 8:5-8 

6 And God said, “Let there be an expanse between 

the waters to separate water from water.” 8 God God saw all that he had made, and it was very 

called the expanse “sky.” 

good. And there was evening, and there was 

9 And God said, “Let the water under the sky be 

morning--the sixth day. Genesis 1:31 

gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” 

And it was so. 

For in six days the LORD made the heavens and 

the earth, the sea, and all that is in them . . .. 

11 Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation 

. . . according to their various kinds.” And it 

Exodus 20:11 

was so. 

For by him all things were created: things in 

heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether 

14 And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse 

thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all 

of the sky to separate the day from the night, and 

things were created by him and for him. 

let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days 

Colossians 1:6 

and years . . .” And it was so. 

God Sustains: He is before all things, and in him 

20 And God said, “Let the water teem with living 

all things hold together. Colossians 1:17 

creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across 

the expanse of the sky.” 

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the 

24 And God said, “Let the land produce living exact representation of his being, sustaining all 

creatures according to their kinds . . ..” And it things by his powerful word. Hebrews 1:3 

was so. 

26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, 

in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11 , 14, 20, 24, 26 

The Creation 

The heavens and the earth and everything in them, both visible and invisible, 

created out of nothing by the Word of God and sustained by Him 

54 



 

Have students turn to Topic 1. Have them read the title. Explain that the "Script" 

for Act 1, Scene 1, is an abbreviated account of creation as well as verses 

from other parts of the Bible woven together to provide the key biblical truths 

about creation. If time permits, you may prefer to have students read the entire 

creation account in Genesis 1. 

Have students first read the woven script for each act and scene. Then discuss 

the symbolic picture of each act. During the discussion, have students record 

in their worktext the symbol in the picture that portrays each truth. 



DISPLAY Worldview Poster 1, The Creation. 


Have students read God Creates (SWT p. 54). 

 

God Creates: “I, the LORD, speak the truth.” Isaiah 45:19 

1 

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 

3 

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 

6 

And God said, “Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water 

from water.” 8 God called the expanse “sky.” 

9 

And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let 

dry ground appear.” And it was so. 

Lesson 3 




Isaiah 45:19 





the earth. 


7 all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, 


was light. 


Psalm 8:5-8 













Exodus 20:11 

was so. 













creatures, and let birds fl y above the earth across 





was so. 



Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11 , 14, 20, 24, 26 

54 

11 

Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation . . . according to their various 

kinds.” And it was so. 

14 

And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the 

day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and 

years . . .” And it was so. 

20 

And God said, “Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above 

the earth across the expanse of the sky.” 

24 

And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds 

. . ..” And it was so. 

26 

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26 

54 

The Creation 




5 

You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings 


6 

You made him ruler over the works of your hands; 


7 

all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, 

8 

the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, 


Psalm 8:5-8 

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, 

and there was morning—the sixth day. Genesis 1:31 

For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that 

is in them . . .. Exodus 20:11 

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. Colossians 1:6 


53



DISPLAY the Creation Posters in sequence or distribute to students who can 

display them sequentially as you discuss each day of creation. 


What does the first sentence of Act 1 tell you? Why are these words 

so important? 

How do you know you can trust that the first words of Act 1 are true? 

In what order did God create the things in heaven and on earth? 

How did God create? 

Have students display the Creation Posters or refer to your display. 

Do you see any reason for the order of creation? Explain. 

What is the "crown" of God's creation? 

What is unique about people in contrast to all other created beings? 

How did God evaluate His creation? 

Have students read God Sustains (SWT p. 54). 

Lesson 3 


54 

 

God Sustains: He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 




Isaiah 45:19 





the earth. 


7 all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the fi eld, 


was light. 


Psalm 8:5-8 













Exodus 20:11 

was so. 













creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across 





was so. 



Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11 , 14, 20, 24, 26 

The Creation 



54 


The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, 

sustaining all things by his powerful word. Hebrews 1:3 


Was God's responsibility to the earth finished after the sixth day of 

creation? Why? Why not? 

What relationship does God have with the creation today? 

How does God sustain His creation today? 

Why do you think God sustains His creation? 

What evidence do you see each day that God still sustains the creation? 

Creation is the first of the three foundational doctrines of biblical Christianity. (The 

fall and redemption are the other two.) It is important that students understand 

the essence of these doctrines. Each is defined in this lesson. 

Have students locate the definition for the creation (SWT p. 54). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 3a, The Creation: The heavens and the 

earth and everything in them, both visible and invisible, created out of nothing 

by the Word of God and sustained by Him. 






worldview 

poster 1 

The Creation 

1. God 

is the Creator. 

1. Upper hand 

above the earth 

DISPLAY Worldview Poster 1, The Creation. 

Have students locate the "stage setting" of Act 1, Scene 1, God's Good Creation 

(SWT p. 55). Lead a discussion to help students identify the symbol or symbols 

for each major truth presented in this scene. 

Have students write the symbols beside the truths in their worktexts. 

Encourage them to identify other biblical truths and symbols they see on the 

stage. 

TRUTH 

Act 1 Scene 1 

God’s Good Creation 

SYMBOL 

2. God created 

visible and material 

things. 


invisible and 

immaterial 

things. 

4. God sustains 

His creation 

and holds it 

together. 


people to rule 

His creation. 

6. God's creation 

was good 

and in harmony. 

55 

2. Animals, 

plants, people, 

planets, etc. 

3. Angels, air, 

space 

4.Lower hand 

under the earth 

5. People wearing 

crowns and 

banner 

6. Musical staff 

and notes 


 

1. God is the Creator. ___________________ 

2. God created visible and material things. ___________________ 

3. God created invisible and immaterial things. ___________________ 

4. God sustains His creation and holds it together. ___________________ 

5. God created people to rule His creation. ___________________ 

6. God's creation was good and in harmony. ___________________ 

Suggested Discussion Question: 



Truth 

Symbol 

1. God is the Creator. 

2. God created visible and material things. 

3. God created invisible and immaterial things. 

4. God sustains His creation and holds it together. 

What parts of Act 1, Scene 1 of God's Great Story have affected the 

stories of your life? How? 

5. God created people to rule His creation. 

6. God’s creation was good and in harmony. 


55 

topic 2. act 1. scene 2.the harmony of creation 


A closer look at God's good creation reveals that it is a creation of relationships. God, 

Who is eternally relational as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, 

created only that which is consistent with His own nature, i.e., that which is relational 

and absolutely good and perfect. Within the Genesis account of creation we find four 

relationships that God created us to enjoy as His image-bearers. These include 1) 

our relationship with God Himself, 2) our relationship with ourselves personally, 3) 

our relationship with others, and 4) our relationship with the earth. 


55



Adam and Eve walked and talked with God in intimate fellowship. Adam and Eve 

enjoyed perfect peace and harmony as individuals, sinless and without blame, 

shame, or fear. They were in harmony as one flesh—husband and wife—ruling and 

reigning over creation together. And they enjoyed perfect harmony with the physical 

earth from which God had created Adam. God intended that these relationships of 

creation would remain in eternal harmony, a harmony that depended on obedience 

to His command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 

2:17). 


Have students turn to Topic 2. Have them read the title and note that this is the 

second scene of Act 1, not Act 2. 

DISPLAY Worldview Poster 2, The Creation in Harmony. 


What kinds of relationships did God include in His creation? 

Why do you think God created this world of relationships? 

Have students read Harmony With God (SWT p. 56). 

Lesson 3 

Topic 2--Act 1. Scene 2. The Harmonious Relationships of Creation 

Harmony With God: God saw all that he had 

made, and it was very good. Genesis 1:31 

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, 

in our likeness . . ..” Genesis 1:26 

In his love he chose us to be his holy people . . .. 

Ephesians 1:4 ICB 

And before the world was made, God decided to 

make us his own children through Jesus Christ. 

That was what he wanted and what pleased 

him. Ephesians 1:5 ICB 

And we were chosen so that we would bring praise 

to God’s glory. Ephesians 1:12 ICB 

“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting 

love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to 

myself.” Jeremiah 31:3 NLT 

Harmony With Self: Then God said, “Let us make 

man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:26 

And they were both naked, the man and his wife, 

and were not ashamed. Genesis 2:25 NKJV 

In his love he chose us to be his holy people--people 

without blame before him. Ephesians 1:4 ICB 

Harmony With Others: Then God said, “Let us 

make man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:26 

7 The LORD God formed the man from the dust of 

the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath 

of life, and the man became a living being. 

18 The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to 

be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” 

56 

21 So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a 

deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took 

one of the man’s ribs and closed up the place 

with flesh. 22 Then the LORD God made a woman 

from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he 

brought her to the man. 

23 The man said, “This is now bone of my bones 

and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ 

for she was taken out of man.” 

24 For this reason a man will leave his father and 

mother and be united to his wife, and they will 

become one flesh. Genesis 2:7, 18, 21-24 

Harmony With the Earth: 8 Now the LORD God 

had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and 

there he put the man he had formed. 

15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the 

Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 

Genesis 2:8, 15 

28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful 

and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue 

it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of 

the air and over every living creature that moves 

on the ground.” 

29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing 

plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree 

that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for 

food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all 

the birds of the air and all the creatures that move 

on the ground--everything that has the breath of 

life in it--I give every green plant for food.” And it 

was so. Genesis 1:28-30 

16 And the LORD God commanded the man, “You 

are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but 

you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge 

of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will 

surely die.” Genesis 2:16-17 


56 

The characteristics of imagebearing 

are developed in later 

lessons. For now, help students 

identify the cognitive/rational, 

emotional, volitional (will), 

creative, and moral (knowing 

right from wrong) dimensions. 

These dimensions allow us to 

have fellowship with God, Who 

is a Personal Being. 

 

Harmony With God: God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. 

Genesis 1:31 

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:26 

In his love he chose us to be his holy people . . .. Ephesians 1:4 ICB 

And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own children 

through Jesus Christ. That was what he wanted and what pleased him. 


And we were chosen so that we would bring praise to God’s glory. 


“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have 

drawn you to myself.” Jeremiah 31:3 NLT 


Who is God speaking about when He says, "Let us make man in our 

image? 

For how long has God the Father been in relationship with God the 

Son and God the Holy Spirit? 

In what ways do you think God created us in His image? 

Why would being created in God's image allow us to enjoy fellowship 

with Him? 



Does God "need" us? Why not? 

If God doesn't need us, why do you think He created us? 

Why did God draw us to Himself? 

Have students read Harmony With Self (SWT p. 56). 


Lesson 3 

56 

 

 

Harmony With Self: Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our 

likeness . . ..” Genesis 1:26 

And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. 

Genesis 2:25 NKJV 

In his love he chose us to be his holy people—people without blame before 



What kind of relationship did God create us to have with ourselves? 

What clue do you find in these Scriptures that tell you Adam and Eve 

were created in personal harmony with themselves? 

If shame were absent, what other emotions that cause personal 

disharmony do you think were absent? 

Have students read Harmony With Others (SWT p. 56). 

Harmony With Others: Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our 

likeness . . ..” Genesis 1:26 

7 

The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into 

his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. 

18 

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a 

helper suitable for him.” 

21 

So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was 

sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the place with flesh. 

22 

Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, 

and he brought her to the man. 

23 

The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall 

be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” 

24 

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his 

wife, and they will become one flesh. Genesis 2:7, 18, 21-24 


What one thing did God say was not good about His creation? 

What kind of relationship did God create between Adam and Eve? 

How do you know? 


Harmony With God: God saw all that he had 


Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, 






That was what he wanted and what pleased 


And we were chosen so that we would bring praise 


“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting 

love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to 



man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

Genesis 1:26 

And they were both naked, the man and his wife, 


In his love he chose us to be his holy people--people 


Harmony With Others: Then God said, “Let us 


Genesis 1:26 

7 The LORD God formed the man from the dust of 





56 

21 So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a 



with flesh. 22 Then the LORD God made a woman 







mother and be united to his wife, and they will 


Harmony With the Earth: 8 Now the LORD God 



15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the 



28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful 



the air and over every living creature that moves 


29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing 



food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all 




was so. Genesis 1:28-30 







If you are using the Worldview 

Posters to illustrate harmony 

at the time of creation, point 

out that Adam and Eve's moral 

perfection is symbolized by 

white robes of purity. Remind 

students that Adam and Eve 

were naked and unashamed 

before the fall. 


57



What do you think was God's plan for all relationships between and 

among people? 

Why do you think God created us to live in relationships with others? 

Have students read Harmony With the Earth (SWT p. 56). 

Lesson 3 


21 Harmony With God: God saw all that he had So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a 




Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, with flesh. 22 Then the LORD God made a woman 












That was what he wanted and what pleased mother and be united to his wife, and they will 



And we were chosen so that we would bring praise Harmony With the Earth: 8 Now the LORD God 




“I have loved you, my people, with an everlast- 

15 ing love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to The LORD God took the man and put him in the 





28 man in our image, in our likeness . . ..” 

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful 

Genesis 1:26 



And they were both naked, the man and his wife, the air and over every living creature that moves 



29 In his love he chose us to be his holy people--people Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing 




Harmony With Others: Then God said, “Let us food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all 



Genesis 1:26 



7 The LORD God formed the man from the dust of was so. Genesis 1:28-30 










56 


56 

 

Harmony With the Earth: 8 Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the 

east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. 

15 

The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it 

and take care of it. Genesis 2:8, 15 

28 

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill 

the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air 

and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” 

29 

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole 

earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 

30 

And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the creatures 

that move on the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I 

give every green plant for food.” And it was so. Genesis 1:28-30 

16 

And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree 

in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good 

and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.” Genesis 2:16-17 


What kind of relationship did God create us to have with the earth? 

What clues from these Scriptures tell you that Adam and Eve's relationship 

with the earth was in perfect harmony? 

What responsibilities did God give Adam and Eve? 

On what did the harmony of all relationships in creation depend? 

Why? 

DISPLAY Worldview Poster 2, The Creation in Harmony. 

Have students locate the "stage setting" of Act 1, Scene 2, The Harmonious 

Relationships of Creation (SWT p. 57). Lead a discussion to help students identify 

the symbol or symbols for each major truth presented in this scene. 



stage. 




worldview 

poster 2 

The Creation in 

harmony 


everything in 

harmony. 

1. Musical staff 

and notes 


people in 

harmony with 

Himself. 

2. Faces and 

hands turned 

toward God 


The Harmonious Relationships of Creation 


people in 

harmony with 

themselves. 

3. Happy faces 

and white robes 

of purity 

 

TRUTH 

SYMBOL 

1. God saw that His creation was in harmony. ___________________ 

2. God created us in harmony with Himself. ___________________ 

3. God created us in harmony with ourselves. ___________________ 

4. God created us in harmony with others. ___________________ 

5. God created us in harmony with the earth. ___________________ 

6. Creation's harmony depended on obedience. ___________________ 



people in 

harmony with 

others. 


people in harmony 

with the 

earth. 

6. Creation's 

harmony 

depended on 

obedience. 

4. Man and 

woman holding 

hands 

5. Fruitfulness 

of the earth; the 

lion and lamb 

together 

6. Uneaten fruit 

in lower left 

corner 

What parts of Act 1, Scene 2 of God's Great Story have affected the 

stories of your life? How? 

Note: Student Worktext Activities (SWT pp. 63-68) for Lesson 3 are designed 

as a culminating activity on Day 3 of this lesson. See Syllabus, pp. xv-xvi. 

57 




topic 3. act 2. the fall and disharmony in creation 


God created Adam and Eve in His image with a will, a dimension of personhood 

essential for engaging in and maintaining a relationship of love not only with Him, 

but also between themselves. God gave His image-bearers the ability to know 

good from evil, and at the same time He commanded them to refrain from doing 

evil, thus honoring the free will with which He had endowed them. Through their 

willful obedience to His command, Adam and Eve would be able to demonstrate 

their love to their Creator. 

Tragically, Satan tempted Adam and Eve to disobey. They gave in to his lie, and their 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 


The Harmonious Relationships of Creation 

Truth 

God saw that His creation was in harmony. 

God created us in harmony with Himself. 

God created us in harmony with ourselves. 

God created us in harmony with others. 

God created us in harmony with the earth. 

Creation’s harmony depended on obedience. 


Symbol 

Students who have participated 

in Building on the Rock previously 

should have a good understanding 

of this key event in 

which Satan promised Eve she 

would become like God if she 

would eat from the tree of the 

knowledge of good and evil. 

57 


59



disobedience introduced disharmony into each relationship of the created order. Adam 

and Eve tried to hide from God, and their hearts were filled with fear and shame. 

Adam blamed Eve for his sin, thus marring their relationship. And God cursed the 

earth, subjecting it to frustration and decay (Romans 8:20-21), thereby spoiling the 

perfect harmony Adam and Eve were created to have with it. The earth they were 

created to rule would now resist their efforts and one day swallow them in death. 

Lesson 3 

58 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT pp. 58) 

Topic 3--Act 2. The Fall and Disharmony of Creation 

Disharmony With God: 6 29 When the woman saw They are filled with every kind of sin, evil, selfishness, 

and hatred. They are full of jealousy, 

that the fruit of the tree was good for food and 

pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gain- 

murder, fi ghting, lying, and thinking the worst 

ing wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also 

about each other. They gossip 30 and say evil 

gave some to her husband, who was with her, 

things about each other. They hate God. They are 

and he ate it. 

rude and conceited and brag about themselves. 

They invent ways of doing evil. They do not obey 

Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the their parents. 31 They are foolish, they do not keep 

LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the 

their promises, and they show no kindness or 

cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God 

mercy to other people. Romans 1:29-31 ICB 

among the trees of the garden. Genesis 3:6, 8 

Disharmony With the Earth: 17 T o Adam he said, 

It is your evil that has separated you from your 

“Because you listened to your wife and ate from 

God. Isaiah 59:2 ICB 

the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must 

not eat of it,’ 

Disharmony With Self: 9 But the LORD God called 

to the man, “Where are you?” 

“Cursed is the ground because of you; 

through painful toil you will eat of it 

10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I 

all the days of your life. 

was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 

18 It will produce thorns and thistles for you, 

Genesis 3:9-10 and you will eat the plants of the field. 

19 By the sweat of your brow 

“O my God, I am too ashamed and disgraced to lift 

you will eat your food 

up my face to you, my God, because our sins are 

until you return to the ground, 

higher than our heads and our guilt has reached 

since from it you were taken; 

to the heavens.” Ezra 9:6 

for dust you are and to dust you will return.” 

Genesis 3:17-19 

Disharmony With Others: 11 And [God] said, 

“Who told you that you were naked? Have you 

20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s 

eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks 

eat from?” 

forward to the day when it will join God’s children 

in 

glorious freedom from death and decay. 

12 The man said, “The woman you put here with 

Romans 8:20-21 NLT 

me--she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I 

ate it.” Genesis 3:11 -12 

The Fall 

 

Have students turn to Topic 3. Have them read the title. Ascertain students' 

understanding of the fall. 

Have students read Disharmony With God (SWT p. 58). 

Disharmony With God: 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was 

good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, 

she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with 

her, and he ate it. 

58 

The entrance of sin into the creation through the temptation of Satan and disobedience 

of Adam and Eve, resulting in disharmony in all the relationships of creation 


Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking 

in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the 

trees of the garden. Genesis 3:6, 8 

It is your evil that has separated you from your God. Isaiah 59:2 ICB 


What did Eve find appealing in Satan's temptation? 

What clue in these verses tells you that sin separates us from fellowship 

with God? 

Why does sin separate us from fellowship with God? 

Have students read Disharmony With Self (SWT p. 58). 

 

Disharmony With Self: 9 But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are 

you?” 

10 

He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was 

naked; so I hid.” Genesis 3:9-10 

“O my God, I am too ashamed and disgraced to lift up my face to you, my God, 

because our sins are higher than our heads and our guilt has reached to the 

heavens.” Ezra 9:6 


Do you think God didn't know where Adam was? Why? 

If God knew where Adam was, why did He ask this question? 

What clue in these verses tells you that sin caused personal disharmony 

in Adam? Do you think Eve was also ashamed and afraid? Why? 



 

Why does our sin cause personal fear and shame? 

Have students read Disharmony With Others (SWT p. 58). 

Disharmony With Others: 11 And [God] said, “Who told you that you were naked? 

Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” 

12 

The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit 

from the tree, and I ate it.” Genesis 3:11-12 

29 

They are filled with every kind of sin, evil, selfishness, and hatred. They 

are full of jealousy, murder, fighting, lying, and thinking the worst about each 

other. They gossip 30 and say evil things about each other. They hate God. 

They are rude and conceited and brag about themselves. They invent ways 

of doing evil. They do not obey their parents. 31 They are foolish, they do not 

keep their promises, and they show no kindness or mercy to other people. 

Romans 1:29-31 ICB 


Lesson 3 

Topic 3--Act 2. The Fall and Disharmony of Creation 

Disharmony With God: 6 29 When the woman saw They are fi lled with every kind of sin, evil, selfishness, 

and hatred. They are full of jealousy, 

that the fruit of the tree was good for food and 

pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gain- 

murder, fi ghting, lying, and thinking the worst 

ing wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also 

about each other. They gossip 30 and say evil 

gave some to her husband, who was with her, 

things about each other. They hate God. They are 

and he ate it. 

rude and conceited and brag about themselves. 

They invent ways of doing evil. They do not obey 

Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the 

their parents. 31 They are foolish, they do not keep 

LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the 

their promises, and they show no kindness or 

cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God 

mercy to other people. Romans 1:29-31 ICB 

among the trees of the garden. Genesis 3:6, 8 

Disharmony With the Earth: 17 T o Adam he said, 

It is your evil that has separated you from your 

“Because you listened to your wife and ate from 

God. Isaiah 59:2 ICB 

the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must 


Disharmony With Self: 9 But the LORD God called 

to the man, “Where are you?” 



10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I 


was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 


Genesis 3:9-10 and you will eat the plants of the field. 


“O my God, I am too ashamed and disgraced to lift 


up my face to you, my God, because our sins are 


higher than our heads and our guilt has reached 


to the heavens.” Ezra 9:6 



Disharmony With Others: 11 And [God] said, 

“Who told you that you were naked? Have you 

20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s 

eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks 

eat from?” 


in 


12 The man said, “The woman you put here with 


me--she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I 

ate it.” Genesis 3:11 -12 

The Fall 

The entrance of sin into the creation through the temptation of Satan and disobedience 

of Adam and Eve, resulting in disharmony in all the relationships of creation 

58 


58 

 


Did God know Adam and Eve had eaten fruit from the forbidden 

tree? Why? 

If God knew that Adam and Eve had disobeyed, why did He ask this 

question? 

What clue in these verses tells you that sin caused disharmony between 

Adam and Eve? 

What kinds of sins among people are the result of Adam and Eve's 

first sin? 

Have students read Disharmony With the Earth (SWT p. 58). 

Disharmony With the Earth: 17 To Adam he said, “Because you listened to 

your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not 

eat of it,’ 


through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. 

18 

It will produce thorns and thistles for you, 

and you will eat the plants of the field. 

19 

By the sweat of your brow 






20 

Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, 

21 

the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious 

freedom from death and decay. Romans 8:20-21 NLT 


61




59 


Did the earth sin? If not, why did God curse the ground? 

How was our relationship with the earth changed by Adam and Eve's 

disobedience? 

What physical consequence do all people suffer because of sin? 

What physical consequences does the earth suffer because of Adam 

and Eve's sin? (death and decay) 

Have students locate the definition for the fall (SWT p. 58). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 3b, The fall: The entrance of sin into the 

creation through the temptation of Satan and disobedience of Adam and Eve, 

resulting in disharmony in all the relationships of creation. 



Act 2 

The Fall and Disharmony of Creation 

Truth 

Symbol 

1. The fall was caused by disobedience. 

2. The fall caused disharmony in all creation. 

3. The fall separated us from God. 

4. The fall caused disharmony within ourselves. 

5. The fall caused disharmony among ourselves. 

6. The fall caused disharmony in the earth. 


59 

Have students locate the "stage setting" of Act 2, The Fall and Disharmony of 

Creation (SWT p. 59). Lead a discussion to help students identify the symbol 

or symbols for each major truth presented in this act. 



stage. 

worldview 

poster 3 

The Creation in 

Disharmony 

1. When people 

disobeyed God, 

sin entered the 

creation. 

1. The eaten 

fruit 

2. Sin produced 

disharmony in 

creation. 

2. The broken 

notes 


disharmony 

between people 

and God. 

3. People's 

backs turned 

toward the eyes 

of God 

Act 2 

 

The Fall and Disharmony of Creation 


disharmony 

within each 

person. 


disharmony 

among people. 


disharmony 

within the earth. 

4. People's 

faces and postures 

reflecting 

despair 

5. Glaring 

faces; poverty 

versus wealth 

6. Dryness of 

the earth; the 

lion and the 

lamb in physical 

conflict 

 

TRUTH 

SYMBOL 

1. The fall was caused by disobedience. ___________________ 

2. The fall caused disharmony in all creation. ___________________ 

3. The fall separated us from God. ___________________ 

4. The fall caused disharmony within ourselves. ___________________ 

5. The fall caused disharmony among ourselves. ___________________ 

6. The fall caused disharmony in the earth. ___________________ 


20 




What parts of Act 2 of God's Great Story have affected the stories of 

your life? How? 


topic 4. Act 3. redemption and 

the restored harmony of creation 

Acts 1 and 2 fill two to three pages of most Bibles (Genesis 1-3). So what fills 

the remaining thousand or so pages? They are filled with the Script(ure) of Act 3, 

Redemption and the Restored Harmony of Creation. At the time of the fall, God 

promised Adam and Eve that the seed of the woman (Jesus) would crush Satan's 

head and works. This redemptive work would be accomplished through the death 

(Satan would bruise Jesus' heel) and resurrection of Jesus (Genesis 3:15). In Christ, 

all the relationships of creation are redeemed. Those who acknowledge and obey 

Jesus as God's Son and their Savior are restored in harmony with God, themselves, 

and others. God lives in believers at the moment they receive Christ as their Lord 

and Savior. Believers become "new creations" and one in the body of Christ with 

other Christians. These restored relationships are positional—the new birth is 

complete. But the relationships go through the process of maturing and continuing 

to mature until the return of Christ when they will be perfected as we become like 

Him for all eternity (1 John 3:2). 

But what about the earth? Did Jesus die for the restoration of the physical earth and 

our relationship with it? If not, then Satan won a fourth of the battle and can claim 

God's good creation for himself. However, this is not the case. God's good physical 

creation has also been redeemed from the curse brought about by sin (not that 

the earth sinned, but rather was cursed as a consequence of Adam's sin). And in 

keeping with God's promises revealed in Scripture, God will create a new heavens 

and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13). There the saints will rule and reign 

with Him for eternity in their new resurrection bodies. In Christ, God has reconciled 

all things back to Himself, including the earth (Colossians 1:19-20). 


Have students turn to Topic 4 (SWT p. 60). Have them read the title. 

Develop the concept of redemption. 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrase 3a, Redeem. 


What does it mean to redeem something? 

Lesson 3 

Topic 4--Act 3. Redemption and the Restored Harmony of Creation 

Restored Harmony With God: For Christ died for 

sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, 

to bring you to God. He was put to death in the 

body but made alive by the Spirit . . .. 

1 Peter 3:18 

14 And we have seen and testify that the Father 

has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 

15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son 

of God, God lives in him and he in God. 

1 John 4:14-15 

For we are the temple of the living God. As God 

has said: “I will live with them and walk among 

them, and I will be their God, and they will be my 

people.” 2 Corinthians 6:16 

. . . And our fellowship is with the Father and with 

his Son, Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3 

Restored Harmony WIth Self: Therefore, if anyone 

is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has 

gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17 

. . . And the Lord--who is the Spirit--makes us 

more and more like him as we are changed into 

his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT 

22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in 

our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, 

goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and selfcontrol. 

Galatians 5:22-23 NLT 

Restored Harmony With Others: 17 Jesus replied, 

“. . . 18 . . . I will build my church . . ..” 

Matthew 16:17-18 

God’s Plan for Redemption 

Christ is also the head of the church, which is his 

body. Colossians 1:18 NLT 

13 But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. 

. . . 15 . . . He made peace between Jews and 

Gentiles by creating in himself one new people 

from the two groups. 16 Together as one body, Christ 

reconciled both groups to God by means of his 

death on the cross, and our hostility toward each 

other was put to death. Ephesians 2:13, 15-16 NLT 

15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in 

your hearts. For as members of one body you are 

called to live in peace. Colossians 3:15 NLT 

Restored Harmony With the Earth: 

“Look, I will make new heavens 

and a new earth. 

And people will not remember the past.” 

Isaiah 65:17 ICB 

But in keeping with his promise we are looking 

forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the 

home of righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 

20 . . . But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks 


in 



19 For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in 

Christ, 20 and through him God reconciled everything 

to himself. He made peace with everything 

in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood 

on the cross. Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 

60 

Ascertain students' understanding of the meaning of redeem. 

60 

God’s plan to redeem and restore harmony in each relationship of creation through 

the payment of Jesus’ death on the cross and His resurrection 



63

20 



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 3c, Redeem: To pay something in order 

to free a person from a debt, punishment, or captivity. 

Lesson 3 






1 Peter 3:18 





1 John 4:14-15 










































in 











60 


60 

 

 


From what did the creation need to be redeemed? 

What harmony needed to be restored? 

Have students read Restored Harmony With God (SWT p. 60). 

Restored Harmony With God: For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous 

for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but 

made alive by the Spirit . . .. 1 Peter 3:18 

14 

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior 

of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives 

in him and he in God. 1 John 4:14-15 

For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them 

and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 

2 Corinthians 6:16 

. . . And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 

1 John 1:3 


From what have people been redeemed? How? 

How has fellowship and harmony with God been restored? 

How can we enjoy fellowship with God again? 

Where does God live today? 

With Whom do we enjoy fellowship? 

Have students read Restored Harmony With Self (SWT p. 60). 

Restored Harmony With Self: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new 

creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17 

. . . And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we 

are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT 

22 

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, 

patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. 



What do people who are redeemed and restored in fellowship with 

God become? 

What does it mean to be a new creation? 


20 


 

When people become new creations, are they perfectly restored in 

harmony with themselves? Why not? 

How is harmony with self restored? How long does it take? 

What is the evidence in our lives of restored harmony with self? 

Have students read Restored Harmony With Others (SWT p. 60). 

Restored Harmony With Others: 17 Jesus replied, “. . . 18 . . . I will build my 

church . . ..” Matthew 16:17-18 

Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. Colossians 1:18 NLT 

13 

But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. . . . 15 . . . He made peace 

between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the 

two groups. 16 Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by 

means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put 

to death. Ephesians 2:13, 15-16 NLT 


Lesson 3 






1 Peter 3:18 





1 John 4:14-15 










































in 











60 

15 

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members 

of one body you are called to live in peace. Colossians 3:15 NLT 

60 



What do people become members of when they are redeemed and 

restored in fellowship with God? 

Why can we say that Christians are "one" when they are redeemed 

and restored in harmony with each other? 

Even though God makes people one in His body, the church, are 

relationships between and among people perfect? Why not? 

What evidence shows you that people are growing in their oneness 

as members of God's church? 

Have students read Restored Harmony With the Earth (SWT p. 60). 

 


“Look, I will make new heavens and a new earth. 



But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a 

new earth, the home of righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 

20 

. . . But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join 

God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. Romans 8:20-21 NLT 

19 


reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and 

on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 


65


61 




How many relationships did God create in the beginning? 

How many relationships are or will be redeemed and restored 

through Jesus' death and resurrection? 

What did God promise about the restoration of the earth? 

Why would God redeem and restore the earth from the disharmony 

caused by the fall? 

When will the earth be made new and our relationship with it be 

made perfect? 

Have students locate the definition for God's Plan for Redemption (SWT p. 

60). 

Act 3 

Redemption and the Restored Harmony of Creation 

Truth 

Symbol 

1. Jesus redeemed and restored all creation in 

harmony. 

2. Jesus redeemed and restores us in harmony 

with God. 


with ourselves. 


with others. 

5. Jesus redeemed and will restore us in harmony 

with a new heavens and earth. 


61 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 3d, God's Plan for Redemption: God's 

plan to redeem and restore harmony in each relationship of creation through 

the payment of Jesus' death on the cross and His resurrection. 



worldview 

poster 4 

The creation 

1. The fallen 

order has been 

redeemed from 

the curse of sin 

through the death 

of Jesus Christ. 

1. The cross 

Have students locate the "stage setting" of Act 3, Redemption and the Restored 

Harmony of Creation (SWT p. 61). Lead a discussion to help students identify 

the symbol or symbols for each major truth presented in this act. 



stage. 

2. In Christ, people 

are restored in 

harmony and fellowship 

with God. 

2. Hands and 

faces lifted 

upward 


are restored in 

harmony with 

themselves. 

3. Joy in 

people's faces 

Act 3 

The Redemption and Restored Harmony of Creation 


are restored in harmony 

with others. 

4. Groups of 

people in fellowship 

TRUTH 

SYMBOL 

5. Through the 

redemptive work of 

Christ, the heavens 

and earth will be 

made new. 

5. Fruit and 

greenness of 

nature 

 

1. Jesus redeemed and restored all 

creation in harmony. 

2. Jesus redeemed and restores us in 

harmony with God. 

__________________________ 

__________________________ 




harmony with ourselves. 

__________________________ 


harmony with others. 

__________________________ 

5. Jesus redeemed and will restore us in 

harmony with a new heavens and earth. __________________________ 



What parts of Act 3 of God's Great Story have affected the stories of 

your life? How? 

Have students locate the Memory Verse for Lesson 3 (SWT p. 62). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 3 Memory Verse, Colossians 1:19-20. 

Lesson 3 

62 

 

19 

For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, 20 and through him 

God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in 

heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. 


Have students read and recite the verse. Discuss in relation to the third key 

theme of God's Great Story, the redemption and restoration of all relationships 

of creation through Jesus. Briefly explain the meaning of reconciled. 

Memory Verses 

19 For God in all his fullness was pleased 

to live in Christ, 20 and through him God 

reconciled everything to himself. He 

made peace with everything in heaven 

and on earth by means of Christ’s blood 



Who is Jesus? Is Jesus God? How do you know? 

What did God choose to do about the fall of creation? Why? 

What was required to redeem all the relationships of creation from 

the fall? 

What do these verses tell us God reconciled or brought back into 

harmonious relationship with Himself? 

62 



Student Worktext: pp. 63-68 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign The Main Points, (SWT pp. 

63-64), The Main Points (SWT p. 65), Writing About It (SWT p. 66), and Hiding 

God's Word (SWT pp. 67-68). 


your own. 


67



LESSON 10 

"I, the Lord, speak the truth" Isaiah 45:19 

The Biblical Christian View of Truth 

Introduction 


Individual and corporate behaviors within global cultures reflect the diversity of 

worldview beliefs people hold. And these beliefs, whether true or untrue, serve as 

the basis for describing and interpreting the world and for prescribing how life is 

to be lived within it. Within this global arena of diverse and conflicting worldviews, 

Christians are faced with at least two critical questions: How do we know what is 

true? and How must we live our lives in relation to the truth we come to know? The 

biblical Christian worldview affirms that it is based on truth that is absolute and 

knowable through the revelation of God. It affirms that God exists, and that as a 

Personal Being, He has communicated essential truth for understanding and living 

in His creation. 

Lesson 10 introduces students to the concept of truth and explores the three primary 

ways God communicates His truth to His image-bearers: through creation, through 

Scripture, and personally through Jesus, Who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life 

(John 14:6). 

LESSON 10 Memory Verses 

"I, the LORD, speak the truth. 

I declare what is right." 

Teach me your way, O LORD, 

and I will walk in your truth. 

Isaiah 45:19 

Psalm 86:11 




See Syllabus, pp. xvii-xviii 




lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














Objectives 

• Students will correlate the five parts of the House of Truth with the five categories 

of beliefs inherent in all worldviews: beliefs about truth, God, the universe, people, 

and values (right and wrong). 

• Students will define truth and explore how they discover truth through their senses 

and through reason. 

• Students will discover the limitations of knowing truth through the senses and reason. 

• Students will identify the written documents the world's three great theistic worldview 

religions believe are their revealed truth and the basis of their worldviews. 


149



• Students will identify the source of truth for the biblical Christian worldview as 

God and His Word. 

• Students will define revelation and identify the three major ways God reveals truth: 

through creation, through Scripture, and personally through Jesus. 

• Students will explore Scriptures confirming that Jesus continues to reveal the 

truth of God's Word today personally through the illumination of Scripture and 

the sanctifying work of His indwelling Holy Spirit. 

Materials 

Books of the Bible Posters 



Lesson 10 Memory Verse 1 Isaiah 45:19 

Lesson 10 Memory Verse 2 Psalm 86:11 

Definition 10a 

Definition 10b 

Definition 10c 

Definition 10d 

Truth: That which agrees with, accurately 

describes, and accurately explains what is real 

Revelation: God's communication of truth that we 

never could have known if He had not chosen to 

uncover or reveal it 

Inspiration: The power of God that enabled men 

to write the words of Scripture without errors 

Illumination: The work of God by His Spirit that 

enabled men to receive and understand God's 

revelation of Scripture 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 



Getting Started and Topic 1 


Topics 2-3 





Topic 4 


Topic 5 




"I, the LORD, Speak the Truth" Isaiah 45:19 

Topic 6 





God Said, Jesus Fulfilled: Have students research major Old Testament 

Messianic prophecies and their fulfillment in Jesus. Have them prepare a 

3-column chart: Prophecy—OT References—NT Fulfillment References. 

Direct students to Bible reference materials or to web sites such as 

http://truthsaves.org/prophecy/index.asp 

Jesus Film: To reinforce the concepts covered Topic 5, God Personally 

Reveals Truth to us Through His Son, Jesus (SWT pp. 165-171), show 

selected clips from the Jesus Film produced by Campus Crusade. Select 

scenes where Christ demonstrates God's truth and love through various 

aspects of His ministry and death. 

God Reveals His Glory in Nature: Take a short nature walk. Have students 

identify one or two aspects of nature they particularly enjoy. Have them 

share what these aspects of nature tell them about God. 

What Would Jesus Do? Read selected stories from the life of Christ that 

illustrate the concept that Jesus reveals God's truth to us through His 

ministry and His response to people's needs (sickness, poverty, injustice, 

fears, doubts, etc.). Have students select a class project that will allow them 

to demonstrate the truth of Christ's love to others. 





getting started—the house of truth 

as a worldview model 

In Lessons 4-9, we constructed the House of Truth as a visual model of God's 

great story. In Lesson 10, we first extrapolate the parts of the model—the Rock of 

Truth, the Foundation of Wisdom, the four walls of relationships, and the Roof of 

Character—to represent the major categories of beliefs inherent in all worldviews. 

We begin with the biblical Christian worldview. The foundation includes essential 

beliefs related to God and truth (God is the Truth). The four walls include beliefs 

related to God, the universe, and people. The roof represents beliefs about right 

and wrong—values or behaviors that people manifest in response to their deeply 

held beliefs about truth, God, the universe, and people. The House of Truth and 

the biblical Christian worldview it represents will also provide the framework for 

exploring, contrasting, and evaluating the worldview beliefs of Islam, Naturalism, 

and the New Age movement in Units 3-5. 


151




137 


LESSON 10 

“I, the LORD, Speak the Truth” Isaiah 45:19 


Have students turn to Getting Started. Have them read Reviewing What You 

Have Learned So Far. 

The Biblical Christian View of Truth 

Getting Started—The House of Truth as a Worldview Model 

Reviewing What You Have Learned So Far: In about God, the universe, people, truth, and right 

Lessons 1 and 2, you were introduced to a world and wrong concretely affects how we write the 

of worldviews. You learned that a worldview is a stories of our lives. 

set of beliefs through which you view and interpret 

life and the world and that guides your choices 

In Lesson 3, you also explored a much greater 

and behaviors—a set of basic beliefs about God, story than the small stories of your life. We titled 


this story God’s Great Story. We read it as a 3-act 

drama—a true drama about the creation, fall, and 

redemption of the four relationships of creation. 

Within its three acts, God’s Great Story taught us 

Biblical Truths about God, the universe, people, 


You also learned that everyone has a worldview, 

but everyone does not share the same worldview. 

Some people have a theistic worldview and believe 

in the existence of one Personal Creator God. Others 

have a naturalistic worldview and believe the 

natural world and universe are all that exist. Still 

others have a New Age worldview. They believe 

that everything is part of one impersonal energy 

force that they often call “god.” 

In Lessons 4-9, you explored God’s great story 

In Lesson 3, you learned that our lives are like a 

by building a 3-dimensional model, the House of 

book composed of many stories. Every day we live Truth. Like the 3-act drama, the House of Truth 

out or create many small stories that we add to also represented the creation, fall, and redemption 

our own book of life and that we often share with 

of the four relationships of creation. And like the 

others. You also learned that our individual stories drama, it included truths about God, the universe, 

are infl uenced by our worldview. What we believe people, truth, and right and wrong. 


137 

 

Reviewing What You Have Learned So Far: In Lessons 1 and 2, you were 

introduced to a world of worldviews. You learned that a worldview is a set of 

beliefs through which you view and interpret life and the world and that guides 

your choices and behaviors—a set of basic beliefs about God, the universe, 

people, truth, and right and wrong. You also learned 

that everyone has a worldview, but everyone does not 

share the same worldview. Some people have a theistic 

worldview and believe in the existence of one Personal 

Creator God. Others have a naturalistic worldview and 

believe the natural world and universe are all that exist. 

Still others have a New Age worldview. They believe that everything is part of 

one impersonal energy force that they often call “god.” 

In Lesson 3, you learned that our lives are like a book composed of many 

stories. Every day we live out or create many small stories that we add to our 

own book of life and that we often share with others. You also learned that our 

individual stories are influenced by our worldview. What we believe about God, 

the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong concretely affects how we write 

the stories of our lives. 

In Lesson 3, you also explored a much greater story than 

the small stories of your life. We titled this story God’s Great 

Story. We read it as a three-act drama—a true drama about 

the creation, fall, and redemption of the four relationships 

of creation. Within its three acts, God’s Great Story taught 

us Biblical Truths about God, the universe, people, truth, 




Lesson 10 

So whether we look at God’s great story as a true 

drama or as a model of a house, these truths from 

the Bible shape our beliefs or our worldview as 

Christians and influence how we write our personal 

life stories. 

The House of Tr uth as a Model of the Biblical 

Christian Worldview: The House of Truth not only 

represents the truths of God’s great story, it also 

provides us with a model of the biblical Christian 

worldview. In this and the next five lessons, we’ll 

let the parts of the House of Truth represent the 

worldview beliefs Christians hold about God, the 


In this lesson, we’ll look at the biblical Christian 

view of truth. What part of the House of Truth could 

represent these beliefs about truth? 

What part of the House of Truth could represent the 

biblical b Christian worldview beliefs about the nature 

and character of God? What parts of the House 

of 

Truth could represent the biblical Christian 

worldview beliefs about people and the universe? 

And finally, what part of the House of Truth could 

represent the biblical Christian worldview beliefs 

about right behaviors that glorify God and wrong 

behaviors that do not glorify God? 

138 

In Lessons 4-9, you explored God’s great story by building a three-dimensional 

model, the House of Truth. Like the three-act drama, the House of Truth also 

represented the creation, fall, and redemption of the four relationships of creation. 

And like the drama, it included truths about God, the universe, people, 


So whether we look at God’s great story as a true drama or as a model of a 

house, these truths from the Bible shape our beliefs or our worldview as Christians 

and influence how we write our personal life stories. 

The Roof of Character 

The House of Tr uth 

The biblical Christian 

view of right and wrong 

behaviors 


The Walls of 

Fellowship, 

Image-Bearing, 

Servanthood, and 

Stewardship 

The Foundation 

of Wisdom 

The Rock of Tr uth 

138 


view of people and the 

universe 


view of God 


view of truth 


What is a worldview? 

What is a theistic worldview? A naturalistic worldview? The New Age 

worldview? 

What do we mean when we say our lives are like a book? 

What determines how we write the stories of our lives? 

Within whose great story do we live and write the stories of our lives? 



DISPLAY the House of Truth. Refer to the model, highlighting its correlation 

with God's great story. 



Who is the author of God's great story? Where can you find this story 

written? 

What does God's great story tell us about truth? About God? 

What do the four walls of God's great story represent? 

What does the roof represent in God's great story? 

 

Have students read The House of Truth as a Model of the Biblical Christian 

Worldview (SWT p. 138). 

The House of Truth as a Model of the Biblical Christian Worldview: The 

House of Truth not only represents the truths of God’s great story, it also provides 

us with a model of the biblical Christian worldview. In this and the next 

six lessons, we’ll let the parts of the House of Truth represent what the biblical 

Christian worldview holds to be true about God, the universe, people, right and 

wrong, and even truth itself. 

Lesson 10 

So whether we look at God’s great story as a true 

drama or as a model of a house, these truths from 

the Bible shape our beliefs or our worldview as 

Christians and influence how we write our personal 

life stories. 

The House of Tr uth as a Model of the Biblical 

Christian Worldview: The House of Truth not only 

represents the truths of God’s great story, it also 

provides us with a model of the biblical Christian 

worldview. In this and the next fi ve lessons, we’ll 

let the parts of the House of Truth represent the 

worldview beliefs Christians hold about God, the 



The Walls of 

Fellowship, 



Stewardship 

The House of Tr uth 

In this lesson, we’ll look at the biblical Christian 

view of truth. What part of the House of Truth could 

represent these beliefs about truth? 

What part of the House of Truth could represent the 

biblical b Christian worldview beliefs about the nature 

and character of God? What parts of the House 

of 

Truth could represent the biblical Christian 

worldview beliefs about people and the universe? 

And finally, what part of the House of Truth could 

represent the biblical Christian worldview beliefs 

about right behaviors that glorify God and wrong 

behaviors that do not glorify God? 



behaviors 



universe 

138 

Look at the diagram below. What part of the House of Truth represents the 

biblical Christian view of truth? What part of the House of Truth represents 

what biblical Christianity holds to be true about the nature and character of 

God? What parts represent what the biblical Christian worldview holds to be 

true about people and the universe? And finally, what part of the House of Truth 

represents the biblical Christian view about right behaviors that glorify God and 

wrong behaviors that do not glorify God? 


of Wisdom 

The Rock of Tr uth 

138 


view of God 


view of truth 


The House of Truth 




behaviors 

The Walls of 

Fellowship, 



Stewardship 



universe 


of Wisdom 

The Rock of Truth 


view of God 


view of truth 


What five categories of beliefs are part of all worldviews? 

What part of the House of Truth will represent the biblical Christian 

view of truth? Of God? Of people? Of the universe? Of right and 

wrong? 

As we begin to examine the biblical Christian worldview represented 

by the House of Truth, where must we begin? Why? 


153



What does the Rock of Truth represent? 

Where do you think we should begin our study of other worldviews 

later this year? Why? 

Explain that since worldviews are developed or built on what people believe is 

true, the study of each worldview in A World of Worldviews begins with an examination 

of what people who hold that worldview believe about truth—what it's 

like, where it comes from, and how it can be known. Explain that each category 

of beliefs (about truth, God, the universe, people, and values) for each worldview 

is compared to the truths of the biblical Christian worldview represented 

in the House of Truth. 


topic 1. what is truth? 

how do we know something is true? 

Truth is that which agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately explains reality. 

We don't invent truth; rather, we discover it. We can discover much truth empirically 

through observation using our senses. That which we can repeatedly observe, 

measure, and calculate we esteem to be true. But our senses are not a foolproof 

method of knowing truth. They can and do often deceive us, or we simply cannot 

see all there is to see and thus come to untruthful conclusions. 

We also discover much truth through reason. As rational creatures, we have the 

capacity to analyze, hypothesize, and come to know truth that is not knowable 

through empirical evidence alone. But like our senses, our rational processes don't 

always lead us to truth. As fallen creatures, we often construct concepts we think 

are true, but in reality they are only human constructs, not truth itself. 

There is truth, however, that we can know only through the revelation of God. This 

means of knowing truth is explored in Topic 2. 


139 

“I, the LORD, Speak the Truth” Isaiah 45:19 ICB 

Topic 1 

What Is Truth? How Do We Know Something Is True? 

What Is Tr uth? How do you know if something is Statement 1: ___________________________ 

true or not? For example, what if someone were to 

tell you the temperature was 100 degrees outside, ______________________________________ 

the sun was shining, and a blizzard was covering 

This statement is ________________ because 

your town with a foot of snow—would he or she 

be telling you the truth? Or what if a shampoo ______________________________________ 

advertisement promised users a life filled with only 

happiness? Would the advertisement be making ______________________________________ 

a truthful claim? Of course, neither the statement 

about the weather nor the claims of the shampoo 

Statement 2: ___________________________ 

ad are truthful. Why not? What is truth? 

______________________________________ 

Tr uth agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately 

explains what is real. For example, 2 + This statement is ________________ because 

2 = 5 is not true because it does not agree with 

______________________________________ 

the reality that 2 + 2 = 4. And to say that a round 

object is square is also untrue. Why? Because ______________________________________ 

the statement does not agree with the reality that 

no object can be two shapes at the same time. This simple activity illustrates that one of the primary 

ways we know whether something is true 

The minute you try to force something square into 

another shape, it is no longer square. 

or not is through our senses. Our five senses— 

hearing, seeing, tasting, smelling, and touching— 

Tr uth 

are usually good detectors of truth. If you were 

to touch a scalding hot pan and someone were 

That which agrees with, accurately de- 

to tell you that it wasn’t hot, would he or she be 

scribes, and accurately explains what is telling the truth? How would you know? 

real 

How Do We Know Something Is Tr ue? There 

are several ways we can know truth. Follow your 

teacher’s instructions as he or she makes two 

statements that your senses can tell you are either 

true or false. Write each statement on the blank 

lines. Then write whether it is true or false. Finally, 

explain how you know whether the statement is 

true or false. 


139 

 

Have students turn to Topic 1. Have them read the title. Discuss to ascertain 

students' understanding. Have them read What Is Truth? (SWT p.139). 

What Is Truth? How do you know if something is true or not? For example, 

what if someone were to tell you the temperature was 100 degrees outside, the 

sun was shining, and a blizzard was covering your town with a foot of snow— 

would he or she be telling you the truth? Or what if a shampoo advertisement 

promised users a life filled with only happiness? Would the advertisement be 

making a truthful claim? Of course, neither the statement about the weather nor 

the claims of the shampoo ad are truthful. Why not? What is truth? 

Truth agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately explains what is real. 

For example, 2 + 2 = 5 is not true because it does not agree with the reality that 



2 + 2 = 4. And to say that a round object is square is also untrue because such 

a statement does not agree with the reality that no object can be two shapes 

at the same time. The minute you force something square into another shape, 

it is no longer square. 



Why is a statement about a blizzard occurring on a day when the 

temperature reaches 100 degrees F not true? 

Why is 2 + 2 = 5 not true? 

Why is it true that a shape cannot be both square and round at the 

same time? 

Why is a shampoo advertisement promising a life of happiness for 

those who use it not true? 

What makes a statement true? What makes a statement false? 

Have students locate the definition for truth (SWT p. 139). 

139 


WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 10a, Truth: That which agrees with, 

accurately describes, or accurately explains what is real. 

Have students assess their answers to the previous discussion questions in 

light of this definition. 

Have students read How Do We Know Something Is True? (SWT pp. 139-142). 

Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. 

Lead students through the worktext activities of Topic 2, providing appropriate 

statements and explanations as directed within the student worktext materials. 

Topic 1 

What Is Truth? How Do We Know Something Is True? 

What Is Tr uth? How do you know if something is Statement 1: ___________________________ 

true or not? For example, what if someone were to 

tell you the temperature was 100 degrees outside, ______________________________________ 

the sun was shining, and a blizzard was covering 


your town with a foot of snow—would he or she 

be telling you the truth? Or what if a shampoo ______________________________________ 

advertisement promised users a life filled with only 

happiness? Would the advertisement be making ______________________________________ 

a truthful claim? Of course, neither the statement 

about the weather nor the claims of the shampoo 

Statement 2: ___________________________ 

ad are truthful. Why not? What is truth? 

______________________________________ 

Tr uth agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately 

explains what is real. For example, 2 + This statement is ________________ because 

2 = 5 is not true because it does not agree with 

______________________________________ 

the reality that 2 + 2 = 4. And to say that a round 

object is square is also untrue. Why? Because ______________________________________ 

the statement does not agree with the reality that 

no object can be two shapes at the same time. This simple activity illustrates that one of the primary 

ways we know whether something is true 

The minute you try to force something square into 

another shape, it is no longer square. 

or not is through our senses. Our five senses— 

hearing, seeing, tasting, smelling, and touching— 

Tr uth 

are usually good detectors of truth. If you were 

to touch a scalding hot pan and someone were 

That which agrees with, accurately de- 

to tell you that it wasn’t hot, would he or she be 

scribes, and accurately explains what is telling the truth? How would you know? 

real 

How Do We Know Something Is Tr ue? There 

are several ways we can know truth. Follow your 

teacher’s instructions as he or she makes two 

statements that your senses can tell you are either 

true or false. Write each statement on the blank 

lines. Then write whether it is true or false. Finally, 

explain how you know whether the statement is 

true or false. 


139 

 

How Do We Know Something Is True? There are several ways we can know 

truth. Follow your teacher’s instructions as he or she makes two statements 

that your senses can tell you are either true or false. Write each statement on 

the blank lines. Then write whether it is true or false. Finally, explain how you 

know whether the statement is true or false. 

Make two statements (see Student Worktext below) that students can verify as 

true or false through their senses (hearing, seeing, tasting, smelling, touching). 

Possible statements include the following: 

Our classroom is very cold today. (verifiable through the sense of touch) 

There is a skunk in our classroom. (verifiable through the sense of sight or smell) 

Our classroom walls are orange. (verifiable through the sense of sight) 

Statement 1: __________________________________________________ 

This statement is _________________ because ________________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 

Statement 2: __________________________________________________ 

This statement is _________________ because ________________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 


155



Have students record your statements and their responses. Discuss briefly. 

Have them continue reading (SWT pp. 139-140). 

 

This simple activity illustrates that one of the primary ways we know whether 

something is true or not is through our senses. Our five senses—hearing, seeing, 

tasting, smelling, and touching—are usually good detectors of truth. If you 

were to touch a scalding hot pan and someone were to 

tell you that it wasn’t hot, would he or she be telling the 

truth? How would you know? 

Lesson 10 

Now let’s put our sense of sight to a truth test. 

Look at the three figures below. Write whether the 

statement under each figure is true or false. Then 

explain the reason for your answer. 

1 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

140 

Now let’s put our sense of sight to a truth test. Look at the 

three figures below. Write whether the statement under 

each figure is true or false. Then explain the reason for 

your answer. 

3 

The two horizontal black lines in the center of this 

figure are bent slightly in the middle. 


______________________________________ 

The bottom line in this figure is longer than the 

______________________________________ top line. 

______________________________________ This statement is ________________ because 

______________________________________ ______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

How well did your sense of sight do in these three 

2 

simple truth tests? If you lay a straight ruler on 

the lines in Figure 1, you can see that neither is 

bent. If you measure the lines in Figure 3, you 

can prove they are the same length. And circles 

drawn on a page are lifeless and can’t move. From 

these simple illustrations, we learn that our sense 

The circles move when you stare at the black dot 

of sight can detect some truth, but not all truth. 

and move your head toward and then away from Sometimes our eyes deceive us, and we do not 

the circles. 

see things as they really are. 

140 


1 

2 

The two horizontal black lines in the center of this figure (Figure 

1) are bent slightly in the middle. 

This statement is ________________ because _________ 

_______________________________________________ 

The circles (Figure 2) move when you stare at the black dot and 

move your head toward and then away from the circles. 

This statement is ________________ because ___________ 

_________________________________________________ 

3 

The bottom line in this figure (Figure 3) is longer than the top 

line. 

This statement is ________________ because ___________ 

_________________________________________________ 

How well did your sense of sight do in these three simple truth tests? If you lay 

a straight ruler on the lines in Figure 1, you can see that neither is bent. If you 

measure the lines in Figure 3, you can prove they are the same length. And 

circles drawn on a page are lifeless and can’t move. From these simple illustrations, 

we learn that our sense of sight can detect some truth, but not all truth. 

Sometimes our eyes deceive us, and we do not see things as they really are. 


What do your eyes tell you about Figure 1? Figure 2? Figure 3? 

Are your eyes telling you the truth? 

How did you decide if what your eyes showed you was true or not? 

Can we rely on our senses to tell us what is true? Why? 

Can we rely on our senses to always tell us what is true? Why not? 



 

Have students continue reading (SWT p. 141). 

Now let’s explore another way we can know truth. Read the statements below. 

Write whether each is true or false, and then explain how you know. 

1. Our class has five more boys than girls. 

This statement is _________________because ________________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 

2. If a family has a father, a mother, two daughters, and one son, there are three 

males and two females in the family. 

This statement is _________________because _______________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 

141 


Now let’s explore another way we can know truth. 

Read the statements below. Write whether each is 

true or false, and then explain how you know. 

1. Our class has fi ve more boys than girls. 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

2. If a family has a father, a mother, two daughters, 

and one son, there are three males and two 

females in the family. 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

3. If someone takes 20 pennies in a row out of a 

sack of coins, the next coin he or she removes 

will be a penny. 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

4. A teacher has18 geography books for her class 

of 25 students. She will need to order 5 more 

books in order for each student to have his or 

her own copy. 


______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

This activity shows us that another way we can 

know if something is true or not is through think- 

ing and reasoning. We k now or reason that when 

a statement contradicts itself, it cannot be true. 

Reason tells us that something cannot be true and 

false at the same time. For example, why is Statement 

2 above false? Where is the contradiction? 

Discuss the other 3 statements with your teacher 

and classmates to see how reasoning can show 

you weather something is true or not. 

3. If someone takes 20 pennies in a row out of a sack of coins, the next coin 

he or she removes will definitely be a penny. 

This statement is _________________because ________________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 


141 

4. A teacher has18 geography books for her class of 25 students. She will need 

to order 5 more books in order for each student to have his or her own copy. 

This statement is _________________because _______________________ 

______________________________________________________________ 

This activity shows us that another way we can know if something is true or not 

is through thinking and reasoning. We know or reason that when a statement 

contradicts itself, it cannot be true. Reason tells us that 

something cannot be true and false at the same time. 

For example, why is Statement 2 above false? Where is 

the contradiction? Discuss the other 3 statements with 

your teacher and classmates to see how reasoning can 

show you whether something is true or not. 


Is Statement 1 true or false? How did you decide? (Senses and 

reason are both involved—seeing the number of students and then 

applying mathematical reasoning.) 

Is Statement 2 true or false? How did you decide? (Mathematical 

reasoning and an understanding of the concept of gender is involved.) 

Is Statement 3 true or false? How did you decide? (Reasoning involving 

the limits of probability is involved.) 

Is Statement 4 true or false? How did you decide? (Mathematical 

reasoning is involved.) 

 


Now let’s put our reasoning ability to a truth test. Although reasoning and thinking 

can lead us to know truth, sometimes they can also mislead us just like our 

senses sometimes do. We can come to false conclusions because we don’t 


157


Lesson 10 


142 

Now let’s put our reasoning ability to a truth test. 

Now analyze the story by discussing the following 

Although reasoning and thinking can lead us to questions with your class: 

know truth, sometimes they can also mislead us 

just like our senses sometimes do. We can come What conclusion about the president did 

to false conclusions because we don’t think or the reporter reach? 

reason correctly. 

On what did the reporter base his conclusion? 

Read the story below describing a newspaper reporter’s 

article about the president of his country. 

As you read, think about the reasoning the reporter Do you think the reason for his conclusion 

uses to reach his conclusions. 

was a good one? Why? Why not? 

A newspaper reporter asked 100 people in Did the reporter’s interview with the people 

Centerville if they thought the president prove the president was doing a bad job? 

of their country was doing a good job. 

Why? Why not? 

Seventy people said no, and thirty people 

said yes. 

Why might 70 people out of 100 say the 

The reporter then wrote a news story based president was doing a bad job? 

on his interviews. The headline read: 

Could they be wrong? Why? 

“President Not Doing a Good Job.” 

Could they be right? Why? 

The article read: 

What would the reporter need to do in 

“Seventy percent of the people in Centerville 

do not believe our president is doing 

order to support his conclusion? 

a good job. Based on this survey, we know 

As you can see from this activity, people don’t 

for sure our president is doing a bad job. It 

always reason correctly. Sometimes they don’t 

is time for us to elect a president who will 

do a good job.” 

have all the facts, and sometimes they jump to 

conclusions that are simply not true. So while we 

can know truth through reason, our imperfect ability 

to reason can also lead us away from truth. 

Our senses and our ability to reason are not the 

only ways we can know truth. Beyond the truth our 

senses and reasoning help us discover is truth we 

could never know if God did not uncover or reveal 

it. God’s truth never misleads us like our senses 

and imperfect reasoning may. God’s revealed truth 

is always perfect and right. And as you will see in 

Topic 2, God’s truth is the truth on which we build 

the biblical Christian worldview. 

142 


think or reason correctly. 

Read the story below describing a newspaper reporter’s article about the president 

of his country. As you read, think about the reasoning the reporter uses 

to reach his conclusions. 

A newspaper reporter asked 100 people in Centerville if they thought the 

president of their country was doing a good job. Seventy people said no, 

and thirty people said yes. 

The reporter then wrote a news story based on his interviews. The headline 

read: 

“President Not Doing a Good Job.” 

The article read: 

“Seventy percent of the people in Centerville do not 

believe our president is doing a good job. Based on 

this survey, we know for sure our president is doing 

a bad job. It is time for us to elect a president who 

will do a good job.” 

 

Now analyze the story by discussing the following questions with your class: 

Lead the discussion using the questions included in the student worktext. 

What conclusion about the president did the reporter reach? 

On what did the reporter base his conclusion? 

Do you think the reason for his conclusion was a good one? Why? 

Why not? 

Did the reporter’s interview with the people prove the president was 

doing a bad job? Why? Why not? 

Why might 70 people out of 100 say the president was doing a bad 

job? 

Could they be wrong? Why? 

Could they be right? Why? 

What would the reporter need to do in order to support his conclusion? 


As you can see from this activity, people don’t always reason correctly. Sometimes 

they don’t have all the facts, and sometimes they jump to conclusions that 

are simply not true. So while we can know truth through reason, our imperfect 

ability to reason can also lead us away from truth. 

Our senses and our ability to reason are not the only ways we can know truth. 

Beyond the truth our senses and reasoning help us discover is truth we could 

never know if God did not uncover or reveal it. God’s truth never misleads us 



like our senses and imperfect reasoning may. God’s revealed truth is always 

perfect and right. And as you will see in Topic 2, God’s truth is the truth on which 

we build the biblical Christian worldview. 



What is truth? 

What are two ways we can come to know or discover truth? 

Why can't we know all truth through our senses and reasoning? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Thinking About It (SWT pp. 

143-144). If you prefer, create comprehension, application, and enrichment 




Topic 2. God's word—the rock of truth 

for the biblical christian worldview 


The biblical Christian worldview is based on what is believed to be truth. No one 

would adhere to a set of worldview beliefs he or she did not consider true. The 

problem, of course, is that not everyone agrees about how truth can be known and 

where it can be discovered. Nor does everyone agree with what others discover 

and claim is true. 

The biblical Christian worldview is based first on the affirmation that God exists. 

Second, it is based on the affirmation that God speaks and that what He speaks 

is true. This presupposition is the launching point not only for Christianity, but also 

for Judaism and Islam, the other two great theistic worldview religions. People who 

practice these three religions acknowledge the existence of the only true and Almighty 

God and that truth originates and can be known not only through the senses and 

reason, but also through revelation from God. Of course, great differences arise in 

what they understand and affirm as God's truth. 

Jews believe that the foundational truths of their worldview were revealed by God 

and recorded and compiled into 24 books comprising the Old Testament, the content 

of which is identical to that found in the 39 books of the Protestant Old Testament. 

The Hebrew Bible includes the 5 books of the law or Torah, 8 prophetic books, one 

combining all the minor prophets into one book, and 11 books of Writings, concluding 

with 1 and 2 Chronicles combined as one book. 

Muslims base their theistic worldview religion on what they believe to be God's 

revelation of truth to the prophet Muhammad as written down in the Koran (Q'uran). 

From the truths they believe are revealed in this book they have developed not 

only a worldview, but also the expression of that worldview in Islamic religious and 

cultural practices in many countries around the world. 


159



The biblical Christian worldview also affirms that God exists and that He is truth 

(John 14:6). It affirms that God created His image-bearers with the capacity to 

discern His truth through their senses and through reason. But it also affirms that 

there is truth to be apprehended beyond the limits imposed by our fallible senses 

and reason. This truth can be known only through revelation, the uncovering of truth 

by God for our understanding. 

God reveals truth about His existence and nature through creation (Romans 1:19- 

20). This is known as general revelation. General revelation, however, is limited 

in what it reveals. God progressively reveals more truth about Himself and His 

plan for creation through Scripture and the incarnation of Christ. This is known 

as special revelation. What we assume to be true about God and His existence 

through creation is verified and then amplified in the words of Scripture. And truth 

that has been verified and amplified in the words of Scripture has been and is more 

completely verified and even demonstrated in Person in the incarnation of Jesus, 

the Word made flesh. Through God's special revelation, in which truth is illumined 

in believers by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:6-16), we are able to 

develop a more accurate understanding of God, ourselves, creation, evil, salvation, 

and many other aspects of reality. Within this framework of revealed truth, we must 

strive to validate the truthfulness of what we claim to be truth derived through our 

senses and reason. 


145 


Topic 2 

God‛s Word—The Rock of Truth for the Biblical Christian Worldview 

Worldviews and Tr uth: You learned that everyone has a worldview that includes beliefs about God, 

the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. You also learned that people do not all hold the same 

set of beliefs and worldview. For example, some people believe 

that God is a Personal Being and others believe God is a mystical 

energy force. Still others believe that God doesn’t even exist. Some 

people believe the universe came about as the result of an accident, 

while others believe it had to be created by an omnipotent Creator. 

Some people believe that human beings are born naturally good, 

and others believe everyone is born with a sinful nature. 

But why do people have so many different ideas about what is 

true? How do they know if what they have come to believe about 

God, the universe, people, right and wrong, and even truth itself, is 

really true? Is there anything in the universe people can rely on as 

a source of truth for their worldview beliefs? In other words, does 

truth that people can believe in and trust exist somewhere? 

As you study the worldviews of Biblical Christianity, Islam, Naturalism, 

and the New Age movement, you will learn that the people 

holding these worldviews believe a source of truth upon which to base their views of God, the universe, 

people, right and wrong, and even truth itself does exist. But, as you have probably already concluded, 

people holding these worldviews do not agree on what that source of truth is. 

Theistic Worldviews and Tr uth: In Lesson 2, you learned about theistic worldviews. Do you remember 

what people with theistic worldviews believe? People who hold theistic worldviews believe that one 

Almighty Personal Creator God exists. The world’s three great religions—Judaism, Christianity, and 

Islam—are theistic worldviews. 

People who practice these great theistic religions believe their worldview is based on truth. In fact, 

each group believes that it possesses written truth contained in books available for all to read. Do you 

remember the names of these books? Jews believe truth is found in 24 books of the Old T e stament, 

including 5 books of law known as the T o rah. Christians believe truth is found in the both the Old and 

New T e staments of the Bible. And Muslims believe truth is found in the Koran. 


145 

 

Have students turn to Topic 2. Have them read the title. Discuss to ascertain students' 

understanding. Have them read Worldviews and Truth (SWT p. 145). 

Worldviews and Truth: You learned that everyone has a worldview that includes 

beliefs about God, the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. You also 

learned that people do not all hold the same set of beliefs and worldview. For 

example, some people believe that God is a Personal Being and others believe 

God is a mystical energy force. Still others believe that God 

doesn’t even exist. Some people believe the universe came 

about as the result of an accident, while others believe it had 

to be created by an omnipotent Creator. Some people believe 

that human beings are born naturally good, and others believe 

everyone is born with a sinful nature. 

But why do people have so many different ideas about what 

is true? How do they know if what they have come to believe 

about God, the universe, people, right and wrong, and even truth itself, is really 

true? Is there anything in the universe people can rely on as a source of truth 

for their worldview beliefs? In other words, does truth that people can believe 

in and trust exist somewhere? 

As you study the worldviews of Biblical Christianity, Islam, Naturalism, and 

the New Age Movement, you will learn that people holding these worldviews 

believe that a source of truth does exist upon which to base their views of God, 

the universe, people, right and wrong, and even truth itself. But, as you have 

probably already concluded, people holding these worldviews do not agree on 


Copyright © 2005 Lion Hudson Plc. / Tim Dowley & Peter Wyart 


what the source of truth is. 



What five categories of worldview beliefs are included in all worldviews? 

Do all worldviews include the same beliefs about truth? God? The 

universe? People? Right and wrong? Why not? 

If all people agree that there is a source of truth for the beliefs they 

include in their worldview, about what do they disagree? 

145 


Topic 2 

 

Have students read Theistic Worldviews and Truth (SWT pp. 145-146). 

Theistic Worldviews and Truth: In Lesson 2, you learned about theistic worldviews. 

Do you remember what people with theistic worldviews believe? People 

who hold theistic worldviews believe that one Almighty Personal Creator God 

exists. The world’s three great religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—are 

theistic worldviews. 

God‛s Word—The Rock of Truth for the Biblical Christian Worldview 

Worldviews and Tr uth: You learned that everyone has a worldview that includes beliefs about God, 

the universe, people, truth, and right and wrong. You also learned that people do not all hold the same 

set of beliefs and worldview. For example, some people believe 

that God is a Personal Being and others believe God is a mystical 

energy force. Still others believe that God doesn’t even exist. Some 

people believe the universe came about as the result of an accident, 

while others believe it had to be created by an omnipotent Creator. 

Some people believe that human beings are born naturally good, 

and others believe everyone is born with a sinful nature. 

But why do people have so many different ideas about what is 

true? How do they know if what they have come to believe about 

God, the universe, people, right and wrong, and even truth itself, is 

really true? Is there anything in the universe people can rely on as 

a source of truth for their worldview beliefs? In other words, does 

truth that people can believe in and trust exist somewhere? 

As you study the worldviews of Biblical Christianity, Islam, Naturalism, 

and the New Age movement, you will learn that the people 

holding these worldviews believe a source of truth upon which to base their views of God, the universe, 

people, right and wrong, and even truth itself does exist. But, as you have probably already concluded, 

people holding these worldviews do not agree on what that source of truth is. 

Theistic Worldviews and Tr uth: In Lesson 2, you learned about theistic worldviews. Do you remember 

what people with theistic worldviews believe? People who hold theistic worldviews believe that one 

Almighty Personal Creator God exists. The world’s three great religions—Judaism, Christianity, and 

Islam—are theistic worldviews. 

People who practice these great theistic religions believe their worldview is based on truth. In fact, 

each group believes that it possesses written truth contained in books available for all to read. Do you 

remember the names of these books? Jews believe truth is found in 24 books of the Old T e stament, 

including 5 books of law known as the T o rah. Christians believe truth is found in the both the Old and 

New T e staments of the Bible. And Muslims believe truth is found in the Koran. 


145 

People who practice these great theistic religions believe their worldview is 

based on truth. In fact, each group believes that it possesses written truth contained 

in books available for all to read. Do you remember the names of these 

books? Jews believe truth is found in 24 books of the Old Testament, including 

5 books of law known as the Torah. Christians believe truth is found in the both 

the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. And Muslims believe truth is found 

in the Koran. 

From where do people holding these worldviews believe their books of truth 

came? All three groups of people—Jews, Christians, and Muslims—believe that 

the one Almighty Personal Creator God spoke or revealed His truth to people 

by speaking to men, and these men wrote down God’s messages. Jews believe 

God spoke the truths of the Torah to Moses and the truths of other books of 

the Old Testament to several other men. Christians believe 

God revealed the truths of the Old and New Testaments of 

the Bible to several men over many years of history. These 

men include Moses, Isaiah, Matthew, John, Paul, and many 

others. And Muslims believe God revealed truths to Muhammad, 

which were later recorded in the Koran. In all three of 

these religions there is no question that God exists. And all 

three religions hold that God spoke or revealed His truth to 

human beings. The big questions, however, are these: What did God speak or 

reveal to the writers of the Bible? Did God really speak to Muhammad, and if 

so, what did He reveal to him? On these questions, Judaism, Christianity, and 

Islam do not always agree! In this lesson, you’ll explore the biblical Christian 

view of God's revelation of truth. Later, in the lessons of Unit 3, you’ll explore 

the Islamic view of God and truth. 

Lesson 10 

From where do people holding these worldviews believe their books of truth came? All three groups of 

people—Jews, Christians, and Muslims—believe that the one Almighty Personal Creator God spoke or 

revealed His truth to people by speaking to men, and these men wrote down God’s messages. Jews 

believe God spoke the truths of the T o rah to Moses and the 

truths of other books of the Old T e stament to several other 

men. Christians believe God revealed the truths of the Old and 

New T e staments of the Bible to several men over many years 

of history. These men include Moses, Isaiah, Matthew, John, 

Paul, and many others. And Muslims believe God revealed 

truth to Muhammad. In all three of these religions there is 

no question that God exists. And there is no question that 

God spoke or revealed His truth to human beings. The big 

question, however, is this: What did God say? What did God 

reveal? On this question, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam do 

not always agree! In this lesson, you’ll explore the biblical 

Christian view of God’s revelation of truth to human beings. 

Later, in the lessons of Unit 3, you’ll explore the Islamic view 

of God’s revelation of truth to Muhammad. 

The Biblical Christian Worldview and Tr uth: The biblical Christian worldview, as you saw illustrated 

in the House of Truth, is built on the Rock of Truth. The Rock of Truth is God Himself. 

“Is there any God besides me? 

No, there is no other Rock; I know not one.” 

Isaiah 44:8 

For who is God besides the LORD? 

And who is the Rock except our God? 

2 Samuel 22:32 

He is the Rock, his works are perfect, 

and all his ways are just. 

A faithful God who does no wrong, 

upright and just is he. 

Deuteronomy 32:4 

Of course, you know God is not saying in these Scriptures 

that He is actually a rock. But what is He saying? 

Let’s review what Jesus said about the wise and foolish 

builders in the parable that you studied earlier: 

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine 

and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built 

his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24 

146 


146 


161





What do Jews, Christians, and Muslims believe they possess? 

In what book do Jews believe their written truth is found? Christians? 

Muslims? 

What do Jews, Christians, and Muslims believe is the source of the 

truth found in their books of truth? 

If all three theistic worldview religions believe God is the source of 

truth, on what do they disagree? 

Lesson 10 

From where do people holding these worldviews believe their books of truth came? All three groups of 

people—Jews, Christians, and Muslims—believe that the one Almighty Personal Creator God spoke or 

revealed His truth to people by speaking to men, and these men wrote down God’s messages. Jews 

believe God spoke the truths of the T o rah to Moses and the 

truths of other books of the Old T e stament to several other 

men. Christians believe God revealed the truths of the Old and 

New T e staments of the Bible to several men over many years 

of history. These men include Moses, Isaiah, Matthew, John, 

Paul, and many others. And Muslims believe God revealed 

truth to Muhammad. In all three of these religions there is 

no question that God exists. And there is no question that 

God spoke or revealed His truth to human beings. The big 

question, however, is this: What did God say? What did God 

reveal? On this question, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam do 

not always agree! In this lesson, you’ll explore the biblical 

Christian view of God’s revelation of truth to human beings. 

Later, in the lessons of Unit 3, you’ll explore the Islamic view 

of God’s revelation of truth to Muhammad. 

146 

 

Have students read The Biblical Christian Worldview and Truth (SWT pp. 146- 

147). 

The Biblical Christian Worldview and Truth: The biblical Christian worldview, 

as you saw illustrated in the House of Truth, is built on the Rock of Truth. The 

Rock of Truth is God Himself. 

The Biblical Christian Worldview and Tr uth: The biblical Christian worldview, as you saw illustrated 

in the House of Truth, is built on the Rock of Truth. The Rock of Truth is God Himself. 



Isaiah 44:8 






A faithful God who does no wrong, 

upright and just is he. 




Isaiah 44:8 


that He is actually a rock. But what is He saying? 

Let’s review what Jesus said about the wise and foolish 

builders in the parable that you studied earlier: 

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine 

and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built 

his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24 

146 









that He is actually a rock. But what is He saying? Let’s review 

what Jesus said about the wise and foolish builders 

in the parable that you studied earlier: 

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and 

puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house 

on the rock.” Matthew 7:24 

147 


Jesus means that we must listen to His words and obey them, and when we do, His words will be like 

a strong rock upon which we can build our lives. 

But why should we build our lives on the Rock of God and His words? The answer is because God 

is truth and His words are truth. 

But the LORD is the true God; 

he is the living God, the eternal King. 

Jeremiah 10:10 

Jesus means that we must listen to His words and obey 

them, and when we do, His words will be like a strong rock upon which we can 

build our lives. 

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” 

John 14:6 

“I, the LORD, speak the truth; 

I declare what is right.” Isaiah 45:19 

“. . . your word is truth.” John 17:17 

All your words are true . . .. Psalm 11 9:160 

If God were not the only true and living God, we could not trust 

that His words are true. And without His truth, we would have 

no basis for a biblical Christian worldview. But we do have 

God’s Word, and He tells us it is true. Each of us is accountable for knowing and obeying His truth. 

Now let’s consider another question. Why did God speak His truth to 

us? Remember, God is a loving God, Who created us in His image. 

God is a Personal Being, Who speaks and communicates. He created 

us with the ability to speak and communicate and to understand 

Him and others. God did not place us in His wonderful world to find 

our way through life completely alone, without a map or compass. 

He lovingly spoke His truth to us so we could know Who He is. He 

spoke truth to us so we could know how to respond to Him and how 

to live in His wonderful creation. If we listen to His words and obey 

them, we will not only be like the wise builder who built his house 

on the rock, we will also be like a wise traveler. We will build strong 

lives for God’s glory, and we won’t get lost in this complicated and 

busy world as we travel the road of life. 

But why should we build our lives on the Rock of God and His words? The 

answer is because God is truth and His words are truth. 




Revelation—Tr uth Uncovered by God: This leads us to ask another 

important question: How did God speak His truth to us? He spoke 

His truth to us through revelation. This means that God uncovered 

and showed us truths about Himself and His will for our lives and creation. These are truths that we 

would never know about God and the world unless He chose to reveal them to us. But just how did 

God reveal His truth to us? In Topic 3, we’ll explore the first of three ways. 


147 



Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” John 14:6 



I declare what is right.” 

Isaiah 45:19 

147 









“. . . your word is truth.” 

John 17:17 


John 14:6 









All your words are true . . .. 

Psalm 119:160 

If God were not the only true and living God, we could not trust that His words 

are true. And without His truth, we would have no basis for a biblical Christian 

worldview. But we do have God’s Word, and He tells us it is true. Each of us is 

accountable for knowing and obeying His truth. 





















147 

Now let’s consider another question. Why did God speak His 

truth to us? Remember, God is a loving God, Who created us 

in His image. God is a Personal Being, Who speaks and communicates. 

He created us with the ability to speak and communicate 

and to understand Him and others. God did not place 

us in His wonderful world to find our way through life completely 

alone, without a map or compass. He lovingly spoke His truth 

to us so we could know Who He is. He spoke truth to us so 

we could know how to respond to Him and how to live in His 

wonderful creation. If we listen to His words and obey them, we will not only be 

like the wise builder who built his house on the rock, we will also be like a wise 

traveler. We will build strong lives for God’s glory, and we won’t get lost in this 

complicated and busy world as we travel the road of life. 


On what did we build the House of Truth? 

What did the Rock of Truth represent? 

Why does God refer to Himself as the Rock? 

In Jesus' parable (story) of the wise and foolish builders, what did He 

mean when He said a wise man builds his house on rock? 

How are God and truth related? 

Who is Jesus? How are Jesus and truth related? 

What does God say about the words He speaks to us? 

Why can we always trust that God's words are true? 

Why did God chose to speak His truth to us? 

How did God create us so that we can hear, understand, and obey 

His truth? 

If God and His words were not true, what can we say about the biblical 

Christian worldview? 

If God and His words were not true, under what other worldview 

would you choose to write the stories of your life? Why? 


163


147 



If God and His words were not true, what worldview would you 

choose as the compass or map to follow on the road of life? Why? 

Have students read Revelation—Truth Uncovered by God (SWT p. 147). 









John 14:6 





























147 

 

Revelation—Truth Uncovered by God: This leads us to ask another important 

question: How did God speak His truth to us? He spoke His truth to us through 

revelation. This means that God uncovered and showed us truths about Himself 

and His will for our lives and creation. These are truths that we would never know 

about God and the world unless He chose to reveal them to us. But just how did 


Have students locate the definition for revelation (SWT p. 148). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 10b, Revelation: God's communication 

of truth that we never could have known if He had not chosen to uncover or 

reveal it. 

Lesson 10 

148 


Revelation 

God’s communication of truth that we never could have known 

if He had not chosen to uncover or reveal it 

Memory Verse 



Isaiah 45:19 

What are some things we would never have known as truth if God 

had not chosen to uncover or reveal them? 

Before we begin our study of how God reveals truth, can you identify 

any of the ways? 

Why can we trust that everything God reveals to us is truth? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 10 Memory Verse 1, Isaiah 45:19. 

Have students read and recite the verse (SWT p. 148). 

148 


 



Isaiah 45:19 

"I, the LORD, speak the truth; 

I declare what is right." 

Isaiah 45:19 

Lead a discussion that reinforces the concept that God and His 

revealed words in the Bible are truth and the Rock on which 

the biblical Christian worldview was established, has been 

developed, and is lived out or applied. 


What does God reveal about truth in this memory verse from Isaiah? 

If what God speaks and reveals is true, what is the only thing on 

which the biblical Christian worldview must be built? 

What did Jesus say about the relationship between God's truth and 

how we should build our lives in the parable of the wise and foolish 

builders? 



topic 3. god reveals truth to us through his creation 



God progressively reveals truth about Himself and creation. Truth that God reveals 

about Himself to all creation is called general revelation. The existence of an 

intelligent, orderly, omnipotent, and good Creator is clearly seen within the intricate 

and beautiful cosmos—seen so clearly that people have no excuse for not knowing 

something about God and His nature (Romans 1:19-20). Without words, but in every 

known language in the universe, the creation declares God's existence and glory 

(Psalm 19:1). Creation proclaims not only the existence of a Creator, but also the 

existence of a Creator who continually sustains all He created. 

As loudly as creation speaks the truth of God's existence and power, it stops short of 

revealing the nature and character of God as a Person. It does not communicate the 

details of God's nature, nor does it bring people into intimate contact or relationship 

with Him. Creation does what it was designed to do—point people in the direction 

of God and reveal clearly that He exists. However, God provided another form of 

revelation that shows people His personal nature, His relational nature, and His 

plan for creation. We call this revelation special revelation. God's special revelation 

is the focus of Topics 4, 5, and 6. 

God's general revelation also 

includes revelation through 

conscience (Romans 2:14-15). 

Though our conscience is fallen, 

it still enlightens us about things 

that are wrong (murder, adultery, 

stealing, etc.) and things that 

are right (honesty, faithfulness, 

saving life, etc.). These are 

truths that most people in all 

cultures throughout history have 

acknowledged. 

God also reveals Himself in history 

as He raises up and pulls 

down kings and kingdoms. This 

kind of revelation is not as easily 

recognized as that of creation 

and conscience. 


149 


Topic 3 

 


students' understanding. Have them read Can Stars Speak? (SWT pp. 149- 

150). 

Can Stars Speak? Have you ever looked up at the stars on a 

clear night? Maybe you’ve camped far away from the lights of 

the city and observed in the absolute darkness of night a sky 

that seemed to be filled with sparkling diamonds. Maybe you 

saw the Big Dipper and other constellations or even shooting 

stars. Have you ever wondered how far away space extends or 

asked yourself whether the universe came into being through 

an accident or if an all-powerful God created it? 

God Reveals Truth to Us Through His Creation 

Can Stars Speak? Have you ever looked up at the stars on a clear 

night? Maybe you’ve camped far away from the lights of the city and 

observed in the absolute darkness of night a sky that seemed to be 

fi lled with sparkling diamonds. Maybe you saw the Big Dipper and other 

constellations or even shooting stars. Have you ever wondered how 

far away space extends or asked yourself whether the universe came 

into being through an accident or if an all-powerful God created it? 

If you’ve asked these questions, you’re not alone. Most people who 

have gazed up at the heavens have pondered questions like these. But 

do you know that the heavens do “speak” to us and can answer many 

of our questions? Oh, they don’t tell us how many stars there are or 

how far space extends, but they do tell us where they came from and 

something about the glorious God Who created them. 

1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. 

The skies display his craftsmanship. 

2 Day after day they continue to speak; 

night after night they make him known. 

3 They speak without a sound or word; 

their voice is never heard. 

4 Y e t their message has gone throughout the earth, 

and their words to all the world. 

The skies tell about his goodness. 

And all the people see his glory. 

Psalm 97:6 ICB, 

These Psalms tell us that creation speaks the truth of God’s existence, goodness, and glory without 

speech or language. But how can that be? Can you really hear God speak truth without hearing His 

voice or reading His words in the Bible? Think about a beautiful painting you’ve seen. Did the painting 

speak to you and say, “An artist created me!” Of course not. Y o u don’t need the painting to tell you that 

it could not have come into existence accidentally 

from nothing. Without making a sound, though, 

the painting tells you that it was created by an 

artist. And if you “listen” carefully to the painting, 

it may tell you something about the artist’s feelings 

or moods. A painting with dark colors may 

reveal that the artist was sad, angry, or fearful. 

Or a painting with bright colors may speak of the 

artist’s joy and positive view of life. Likewise, if 

you “listen” to creation, it will tell you that it’s not 

an accident. It will tell you about the awesome 

power and glory of God, its Creator. 


Psalm 19:1-4 NLT 

149 

If you’ve asked these questions, you’re not alone. Most people 

who have gazed up at the heavens have pondered questions like these. But 

do you know that the heavens do “speak” to us and can answer many of our 

questions? Oh, they don’t tell us how many stars there are or how far space 

extends, but they do tell us where they came from and something about the 

glorious God Who created them. 

1 

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. 


2 

Day after day they continue to speak; 


3 

They speak without a sound or word; 



165


149 



Topic 3 

God Reveals Truth to Us Through His Creation 

4 

Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, 



Can Stars Speak? Have you ever looked up at the stars on a clear 

night? Maybe you’ve camped far away from the lights of the city and 

observed in the absolute darkness of night a sky that seemed to be 

filled with sparkling diamonds. Maybe you saw the Big Dipper and other 

constellations or even shooting stars. Have you ever wondered how 

far away space extends or asked yourself whether the universe came 

into being through an accident or if an all-powerful God created it? 

If you’ve asked these questions, you’re not alone. Most people who 

have gazed up at the heavens have pondered questions like these. But 

do you know that the heavens do “speak” to us and can answer many 

of our questions? Oh, they don’t tell us how many stars there are or 

how far space extends, but they do tell us where they came from and 

something about the glorious God Who created them. 

1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. 


And all the people see his glory. 

Psalm 97:6 ICB 


2 Day after day they continue to speak; 


3 They speak without a sound or word; 



4 Y e t their message has gone throughout the earth, And all the people see his glory. 


Psalm 97:6 ICB, 


These Psalms tell us that creation speaks the truth of God’s existence, goodness, and glory without 

speech or language. But how can that be? Can you really hear God speak truth without hearing His 

voice or reading His words in the Bible? Think about a beautiful painting you’ve seen. Did the painting 

speak to you and say, “An artist created me!” Of course not. Y o u don’t need the painting to tell you that 

it could not have come into existence accidentally 

from nothing. Without making a sound, though, 

the painting tells you that it was created by an 

artist. And if you “listen” carefully to the painting, 

it may tell you something about the artist’s feelings 

or moods. A painting with dark colors may 

reveal that the artist was sad, angry, or fearful. 

Or a painting with bright colors may speak of the 

artist’s joy and positive view of life. Likewise, if 

you “listen” to creation, it will tell you that it’s not 

an accident. It will tell you about the awesome 

power and glory of God, its Creator. 


149 

These psalms tell us that creation speaks the truth of God’s existence, goodness, 

and glory without speech or language. But how can that be? Can you 

really hear God speak truth without hearing His voice or reading His words in the 

Bible? Think about a beautiful painting you’ve seen. Did the painting speak to 

you and say, “An artist created me!” Of course not. You don’t need the painting 

to tell you that it could not have come into existence accidentally from nothing. 

Without making a sound, though, the painting tells you that it was created by 

an artist. And if you “listen” carefully to the painting, it may tell you something 

about the artist’s feelings or moods. A painting with 

dark colors may reveal that the artist was sad, angry, 

or fearful. Or a painting with bright colors may speak of 

the artist’s joy and positive view of life. Likewise, if you 

“listen” to creation, it will tell you that it is not an accident. 

It will tell you about the awesome power and glory of 

God, its Creator. 

Have students share what they have observed about the universe. 


What do you think about when you look up at the stars on a clear 

night? 

How does the universe speak to you? 

What does the universe speak to you? 

Lesson 10 

To Whom Does Creation Speak God’s Tr uth? Read the following words from the Old T e stament 

Book of Job to find out who heard and saw God’s truth through creation. As you read, think about 

some of the truths God reveals to you through His creation. 

22 “God is exalted in his power. 

Who is a teacher like him? . . . 

24 Remember to extol his work, 

which men have praised in song. 

25 All mankind has seen it; 

men gaze on it from afar. 

26 How great is God—beyond our understanding! 

The number of his years is past finding out. 

27 “He draws up the drops of water, 

which distill as rain to the streams; 

28 the clouds pour down their moisture 

and abundant showers fall on mankind. 

29 Who can understand how he spreads out the clouds, 

how he thunders from his pavilion? 

30 See how he scatters his lightning about him, 

bathing the depths of the sea. 

Job 36:22, 24-30 

The creation is a powerful testimony to God’s existence 

and to what He is like. Job says, “All mankind has seen it.” 

He means that everyone has seen God’s work in creation. 

And anyone who has seen God’s work has also seen 

His greatness and power. In the New T e stament Book 

of Romans, the apostle Paul also tells us how creation 

speaks truth about God. 

19 They know the truth about God because he has 

made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world 

was created, people have seen the earth and sky. 

Through everything God made, they can clearly 

see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and 

divine nature. So they have no excuse for not 

knowing God. Romans 1:19-20 NLT 

Because the creation speaks the truth about 

God’s existence and power so clearly, no one 

has an excuse for not knowing Him. Have you 

been listening to the words of creation? Do you 

know God? 

150 


150 

 

Have students read To Whom Does Creation Speak God's Truth? (SWT p. 

150). 

To Whom Does Creation Speak God’s Truth? Read the 

following words from the Old Testament Book of Job to find 

out who heard and saw God’s truth through creation. As 

you read, think about some of the truths God reveals to 

you through His creation. 

22 

“God is exalted in his power. 


24 

Remember to extol his work, 


25 

All mankind has seen it; 


26 

How great is God—beyond our understanding! 

The number of his years is past finding out. 



27 

“He draws up the drops of water, 


28 

the clouds pour down their moisture 


29 

Who can understand how he spreads out the clouds, 


30 

See how he scatters his lightning about him, 


Job 36:22, 24-30 

The creation is a powerful testimony to God’s existence and to what He is 

like. Job says, “All mankind has seen it.” He means that everyone has seen 

God’s work in creation. And anyone who has seen God’s work has also seen 

His greatness and power. In the New Testament Book of Romans, the apostle 

Paul also tells us how creation speaks truth about God. 


Lesson 10 

To Whom Does Creation Speak God’s Tr uth? Read the following words from the Old T e stament 

Book of Job to fi nd out who heard and saw God’s truth through creation. As you read, think about 

some of the truths God reveals to you through His creation. 

22 “God is exalted in his power. 


24 Remember to extol his work, 


25 All mankind has seen it; 


26 How great is God—beyond our understanding! 

The number of his years is past fi nding out. 

27 “He draws up the drops of water, 


28 the clouds pour down their moisture 


29 Who can understand how he spreads out the clouds, 


30 See how he scatters his lightning about him, 


Job 36:22, 24-30 

The creation is a powerful testimony to God’s existence 

and to what He is like. Job says, “All mankind has seen it.” 

He means that everyone has seen God’s work in creation. 

And anyone who has seen God’s work has also seen 

His greatness and power. In the New T e stament Book 

of Romans, the apostle Paul also tells us how creation 

speaks truth about God. 

150 

19 They know the truth about God because he has 

made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world 

was created, people have seen the earth and sky. 

Through everything God made, they can clearly 

see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and 

divine nature. So they have no excuse for not 

knowing God. Romans 1:19-20 NLT 

Because the creation speaks the truth about 

God’s existence and power so clearly, no one 

has an excuse for not knowing Him. Have you 

been listening to the words of creation? Do you 

know God? 


150 

19 

They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For 

ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through 

everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal 

power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. 



Because the creation speaks the truth about God’s 

existence and power so clearly, no one has an excuse 

for not knowing Him. Have you been listening to the 

words of creation? Do you know God? 

What do the heavens tell us about God's existence? 

How do the heavens tell us God exists? 

What do the heavens tell us about God? 

According to the Book of Job, to whom do the heavens and all creation 

speak? 

According to Job, what do the heavens and creation not tell us about 

God? 

What does the Bible tell us about the excuses people make for not 

believing in God? Why are these excuses worthless? 

Why do you think people choose not to believe in God when the 

creation clearly tells us He does exist? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign The Main Points (SWT p. 

151), Scripture Search (SWT p. 152), Writing About It (SWT p. 153), and Hiding 

God's Word (SWT p. 154). If you prefer, create comprehension, application, 

and enrichment activities of your own. 


167





Topic 4. god reveals truth to us through the bible 


In contrast to general revelation that impersonally reveals God's existence and some 

of His attributes through creation, God's special revelation personally reveals Himself 

and His plan for creation. The special revelations of God include the written Word 

or Scripture and God's most personal revelation in the Person of Jesus Christ, the 

Word made flesh, the Living Word. 

In the Scriptures (the writings), we find God's revealed words to humanity. These 

words are truths that we could not have known or discovered by natural reason. 

Only by God's gracious act of revealing Himself through verbal communication with 

us can we know His nature and character as a Personal Being and our purpose for 

existence. Only through Scripture can we begin to understand the origin of evil and 

the brokenness of creation. And only through Scripture can we come to know God's 

plan to redeem and restore His creation from the ravages of sin and evil. 

Over a period of 1,600 years, God communicated His words to approximately 40 

men, who, guided by the Holy Spirit, carefully recorded His messages to us. These 

men were inspired by the Holy Spirit of God to write God's words. Inspiration is the 

power of God that enabled the writers of Scripture to write without error. Inspiration 

does not mean dictation. Rather, God sovereignly communicated His truths while 

at the same time used each writer's frame of reference, personality, emotions, and 

culture to express His truths. We can identify the writers' fingerprints in the books 

they wrote, strong evidence that God clothed His revelation with their humanity. 

God also revealed His Word through illumination. In this process, God, again 

through the Holy Spirit, enlightened the writers' understanding of the revelation they 

received. Today, Christians' understanding is still illumined by the indwelling Holy 

Spirit as they read God's Word. 

The Holy Scriptures have been compiled into the Bible, a word derived from the 

Greek word biblios, meaning book. The Bible is divided into two Testaments, the 

Old and the New. A testament is a covenant or contract wherein one person offers 

something of value that is then accepted by another. Once the offer is accepted, a 

covenant or contract has been made. Within the covenant are promises that govern 

the relationship between the two parties. 

The Old Testament contains the original covenants God made with the nation of the 

Hebrews, Israel, and relates to His plan for redemption through the coming Messiah, 

Jesus Christ. In the Protestant Bible, there are 39 Old Testament books written by 

approximately 30 men over 1,000 years. The Hebrew Bible includes the equivalent 

content as the Protestant Old Testament, but arranges the material into 24 books 

that include the 5 books of the Law or Torah, 8 prophetic books, one combining the 

minor prophets into one book, and 11 books referred to as Writings, concluding with 

1 and 2 Chronicles combined as one book. The canon of the Old Testament (those 

books examined and determined to be authentic revelations of God) was probably 



not finalized until about the time of Christ's birth. 


The New Testament includes 27 inspired books all relating to the new covenant of 

grace in Jesus, Who is the fulfillment of the Old Testament Messianic promises. 

Compiled by 10 men over a period of 50-60 years between 40-100 A.D., the New 

Testament includes 5 books of history (Matthew through Acts), 21 epistles or letters 

(Romans through Jude), and 1 book of prophecy, Revelation. The canon of the New 

Testament was not finalized until the fourth century A.D. 

Hebrew is the primary language of the Old Testament, though some passages in 

Ezra and Daniel were written in Aramaic. Hebrew is one of the Semitic languages 

common to Mesopotamia (primarily modern day Iraq). The alphabet consists of 

22 consonants, but no vowels, and is written from right to left. The first page of a 

Hebrew Bible would be the last page of an English Bible. 

Although Aramaic became the common language spoken in Israel in Jesus' time, 

the books of the New Testament were written in Greek—the main language of 

scholarship within the Roman Empire. Unlike Hebrew, the Greek alphabet with 24 

letters includes vowels and is written left to right like English. 


 


students' understanding. Have them read Does Creation Speak All God's Truth 

to Us? (SWT p. 155). 

Does Creation Speak All God’s Truth to Us? Let’s think again about an 

artist’s painting. What can you know about an artist just by looking at his or 

her painting? First, you know for sure that an artist exists. No 

painting can create itself out of nothing. And as you learned 

in Topic 3, if you “listen” carefully to the painting, it reveals 

information about the artist’s talents, abilities, likes, dislikes, 

and even feelings. But you still can’t know everything about 

the artist by merely observing his or her work, can you? Even 

if you think the painting reveals the artist’s feelings, you can’t 

know with certainty. 

155 

Topic 4 

God Reveals Truth to Us Through the Bible 

Does Creation Speak All God’s Tr uth to Us? Let’s think again about an artist’s painting. What can 

you know about an artist just by looking at his or her painting? First, you know for sure that an artist 

exists. No painting can create itself out of nothing. And as you 

learned in Topic 3, if you “listen” carefully to the painting, it reveals 

information about the artist’s talents, abilities, likes, dislikes, and 

even feelings. But you still can’t know everything about the artist 

by merely observing his or her work, can you? Even if you think 

the painting reveals the artist’s feelings, you can’t know with 

certainty. 

So how can you know the artist better? How can you know why he 

or she painted a particular scene? How can you know how the artist 

truly feels about the painting? Suppose you read a book written 

by the artist. As you turn the pages, you discover the artist’s true 

feelings about painting. You discover the methods or styles the 

artist uses to create each painting. And you learn why the artist 

chose to create beautiful paintings in the fi rst place. If you were 

to discover and read such a book, many of your questions about 

the artist would be answered. You would know for certain more 

about both the artist and his or her work than you could just by 

viewing paintings in an art gallery. 

Now let’s go back to the idea of “listening” to what creation tells 


us. You learned in T o pic 3 that creation speaks truth to us. It tells 

us there is a Creator and that He is good and glorious. It tells us 


that God is powerful and beyond our understanding (Job 36:26). 

Isaiah 45:19 

But as the painting cannot tell us everything we’d like to know 

about the artist, neither can creation tell us every truth we need 

to know about God. Creation doesn’t tell us why we exist or 

why there is so much sin and evil in the world. Nor does God’s 

creation tell us about His plan to redeem it. No, these are truths 

creation doesn’t reveal to us. These are truths we cannot know 

through our senses or through reasoning with our minds. These 

are truths that we can know only because God chose to reveal 

them by speaking them to us. These are truths He communicated 

by His Spirit to men whom He chose to record His words for all 

the world to read. These truths are recorded in a book that God 

alone has authored. Do you know the name of this book? 



155 

So how can you know the artist better? How can you know why he or she 

painted a particular scene? How can you know how the artist truly feels about 

the painting? Suppose you read a book written by the artist. As you turn the 

pages, you discover the artist’s true feelings about painting. You discover the 

methods or styles the artist uses to create each painting. And you learn why 

the artist chose to create beautiful paintings in the first place. If you were to 

discover and read such a book, many of your questions about the artist would 

be answered. You would know for certain more about both the artist and his or 

her work than you could just by viewing paintings in an art gallery. 

Now let’s go back to the idea of “listening” to what creation tells us. You learned 

in Topic 3 that creation speaks truth to us. It tells us there is a Creator and that 

He is good and glorious. It tells us that God is powerful and beyond our understanding 

(Job 36:26). But as the painting cannot tell us everything we’d like to 


169




know about the artist, neither can creation tell us every truth 


I declare what is right.” we need to know about God. Creation doesn’t tell us why we 

Isaiah 45:19 

exist or why there is so much sin and evil in the world. Nor 

does God’s creation tell us about His plan to redeem it. No, 

these are truths creation doesn’t reveal to us. These are truths 

we cannot know through our senses or through reasoning with 

our minds. These are truths that we can know only because 

God chose to reveal them by speaking them to us. These are 

truths He communicated by His Spirit to men whom He chose 

to record His words for all the world to read. These truths are recorded in a book 

that God alone has authored. Do you know the name of this book? 


What can you know about a painting when you see it? 

What can you know about creation when you see it? 

What might a painting tell you about the artist? 

What does creation tell you about its Creator? 

How could we learn more about an artist and his or her painting? 

Where can we learn more about God and His creation? 

Lesson 10 

What Is the Bible? The word Bible comes from the 

Greek word biblios, meaning book. We also know the 

Bible by other names. We know it as Scripture, meaning 

writing, or Scriptures, meaning writings. 

For everything that was written in the past was written 

to teach us, so that through endurance and the 

encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 

Romans 15:4 

These writings, of course, are not merely the writings of 

people. They are the words God revealed to men, who wrote them down so that we could know God 

and His plan for our lives and for creation. For this reason, the Bible is also called the Word of God. 

Long ago, the apostle Paul wrote a New T e stament letter to new Christians living in the city of Thessalonica 

in the country of Greece. In this letter, Paul reminded the Thessalonians that what they had 

heard about God and His plan for redemption were not just human words, but the actual words of God 

revealed or spoken to them. 

And we also thank God continually because, when 

you received the word of God, which you heard 

from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, 

but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at 

work in you who believe. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 

The apostle Paul also wrote to Christians in the 

city of Ephesus in modern day Turkey. In this letter, 

Paul called Scripture the “word of truth.” 

T URKEY 

Ephesus 

And you also were included in Christ when you 

heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. 

Ephesians 1:13 

Can we trust the Bible or Scriptures to be the “word of God”? 

Can we trust the Bible to be the “word of truth”? God assures 

us that we can. 

156 

 

Have students read What Is the Bible? (SWT p. 156). 

What Is the Bible? The word Bible comes from the Greek 

word biblios, meaning book. We also know the Bible by 

other names. We know it as Scripture, meaning writing, or 

Scriptures, meaning writings. 

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that 

through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have 

hope. Romans 15:4 

156 



Isaiah 45:19 



These writings, of course, are not merely the writings of people. They are the 

words God revealed to men, who wrote them down so that we could know God 

and His plan for our lives and for creation. For this reason, the Bible is also 

called the Word of God. 

Long ago, the apostle Paul wrote a New Testament letter to new Christians 

living in the city of Thessalonica in the country of Greece. In this letter, Paul 

reminded the Thessalonians that what they had heard about God and His plan 

for redemption were not just human words, but the actual words of God revealed 

or spoken to them. 

TURKEY 

Ephesus 

And we also thank God continually because, when you 

received the word of God, which you heard from us, you 

accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, 

the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. 

1 Thessalonians 2:13 

The apostle Paul also wrote to Christians in the city of Ephesus in modern day 

Turkey. In this letter, Paul referred to God's word as the “word of truth.” 


History Wisdom Prophecy 

Law 

Old T e stament 

Prophecy 

History 


And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the 

gospel of your salvation. Ephesians 1:13 


Can we trust the words of Scripture to be the “word of God”? Can we trust the 

Bible to be the “word of truth”? God assures us that we can. 



Isaiah 45:19 



What does the word "Bible" mean? 

From what language does the word Bible come? What word? 

Why do we refer to the Bible as "the Scriptures"? 

What did the apostle Paul call the Bible in his letter to the Christians 

in the Greek city of Thessalonica? Why? 

What did the apostle Paul call the Bible in his letter to the Christians 

in the city of Ephesus? Why? 

Why can we trust that the words of the Bible are true? 

 

Have students read How Is the Bible Arranged or Organized? (SWT p.157). 

How Is the Bible Arranged or Organized? The Bible is one large book 

consisting of 66 separate, smaller books arranged into two divisions, the Old 

Testament of 39 books and the New Testament of 27 books. The Bible is the 

only true written revelation of God. 

The word testament means covenant. The 39 books of the Old Testament 

are primarily related to God’s call and covenant or promised relationship with 

the Hebrews, who became the nation of Israel. These 

books reveal God’s promise to Israel to be their God and 

provider with the condition that they obey Him. These 

books also reveal God’s promise to redeem and restore 

harmony in all the relationships of creation through 

His Son, Jesus, Who one day 

would be born from the nation 

of Israel. 

The 39 books of the Old Testament 

are grouped into 4 categories—5 

books of Law, 12 books 

Ezra 

Nehemiah 

Esther 

Job 

Psalms 

Proverbs 

Ecclesiastes 

Song of Solomon 

of History, 5 books of Wisdom, and 17 books of Prophecy. Compare the three 

pictures on this page that show the books of the Old Testament arranged on 

shelves with the Books of the Bible posters in your classroom. 

Isaiah 

Ezekiel 

Lamentations 

Jeremiah 

History Wisdom Prophecy 

Daniel 

Leviticus 

Exodus 

Genesis 

Law 

Amos 

Joel 

Hosea 

Numbers 

Deuteronomy 

Old Testament 

Obadiah 

Jonah 

Micah 

Nahum 

Habakkuk 

Zephaniah 

Prophecy 

Joshua 

Judges 

Ruth 

1 Samuel 

2 Samuel 

1 Kings 

2 Kings 

1 Chronicles 

2 Chronicles 

History 

Zechariah 

Haggai 

Malachi 

157 

How Is the Bible Arranged or Organized? The Bible is one large book consisting of 66 separate, 

smaller books arranged into two divisions, the Old Testament of 39 books and the New Testament of 

27 books. The Bible is the only true written revelation of God. 

The word testament means covenant. The 39 books of the Old Testament are primarily related to God’s 

call and covenant or promised relationship with the Hebrews, who became the nation of Israel. These 

books reveal God’s promise to Israel to be their God and provider with the condition that they obey 

Him. These books also reveal God’s promise to redeem and restore harmony in all the relationships 

of creation through His Son, Jesus, Who one day 

would be born from the nation of Israel. 

Joshua 

The 39 books of the Old Testament are grouped 

Judges 

into 4 categories—5 books of Law, 12 books of 

Ruth 

1 Samuel 

History, 5 books of Wisdom, and 17 books of 

2 Samuel 

Prophecy. Compare the three pictures on this 

1 Kings 

page that show the books of the Old Testament 

2 Kings 

arranged on shelves with the Books of the Bible 

1 Chronicles 

posters in your classroom. 

2 Chronicles 

Ezra 

Nehemiah 

Esther 

Job 

Psalms 

Proverbs 

Ecclesiastes 

Song of Solomon 

Ezekiel 

Lamentations 

Jeremiah 

Isaiah 

Daniel 

The 27 books of the New Testament focus on God’s new covenant relationship of grace with all people 

through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The New Testament explains how Jesus fulfilled all 

God’s promises in the Old Testament, and it reveals the truths of how our faith in Jesus can restore 

our fellowship with God. 

The 27 books of the New Testament are grouped into 3 major categories—5 books of History, 21 

books of Christian Living, and 1 book of Prophecy. Compare the two pictures on the next page that 

show the books of the New Testament arranged on shelves with the Books of the Bible posters in 

your classroom. 


Genesis 

Leviticus 

Exodus 

Amos 

Joel 

Hosea 


Numbers 

Deuteronomy 

Obadiah 

Jonah 

Micah 

Nahum 

Habakkuk 

Zephaniah 

Zechariah 

Haggai 

Malachi 

157 

The 27 books of the New Testament focus on God’s new covenant relationship 

of grace with all people through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The New 

Testament explains how Jesus fulfilled all God’s promises in the Old Testament, 


171

History 

New T e stament 


Christian Living 


Prophecy 



and it reveals the truths of how 

our faith in Jesus can restore 

our fellowship with God. 

The 27 books of the New Testament 

are grouped into 3 major 

John 

Luke 

Mark 

Matthew 

History 

2 Corinthians 

categories—5 books of History, 21 books of Christian Living, and 1 book of 

Prophecy. Compare the two pictures on the next page that show the books of 

the New Testament arranged on shelves with the Books of the Bible posters 

in your classroom. 

Acts 

New Testament 

Romans 

1 Corinthians 

Galatians 

Ephesians 

Philippians 

Colossians 

1 Thessalonians 



2 Timothy 

1 Timothy 

Titus 

Philemon 

Hebrews 

James 

1 Peter 

2 Peter 

1 John 

2 John 

3 John 


Jude 

Revelation 

Prophecy 


What do we mean when we say that the Bible is 66 books combined 

into one book? 

What are the two major divisions of the Bible called? 

What is a covenant? 

The books of the Old Testament (or old covenant) reveal God's 

promises and relationship with what special group of people? 

What was God's primary reason for choosing and making a covenant 

with the Hebrew people? 

How many books are included in the Old Testament? How are they 

categorized? 

Have students refer to their own Bibles and the Bible Posters as you lead 

them through the categories and names of the books of the Old Testament. 

Emphasize the writers of the books and the varying lengths. 


The books of the New Testament (new covenant) reveal that God 

fulfilled His Old Testament promises. How? 

How do we enter into the new covenant relationship with God today? 

How many books are included in the New Testament? How are they 

categorized? 

John 

Luke 

Mark 

Matthew 

Acts 

Romans 

1 Corinthians 

2 Corinthians 

Galatians 

Ephesians 

Philippians 

Colossians 



2 Timothy 

1 Timothy 

Titus 

Philemon 

Hebrews 

James 

1 Peter 

2 Peter 

1 John 

2 John 

3 John 

Jude 

Revelation 

158 

Have students refer to their own Bibles and the Bible Posters as you lead 

them through the categories and names of the books of the New Testament. 

Emphasize the writers of the books and the varying lengths, explaining that 

some of the books are brief letters that were circulated among the early Christians 

for their instruction. 

Who Wrote the Bible? God, of course, is the author of the Bible. But God did not sit down with pen 

and paper and begin to write His words to us. Instead, during a period of almost 1,600 years He spoke 

the truth He wanted recorded in the Bible to forty different men, beginning with Moses, who wrote 

Genesis, and ending with the apostle John, who wrote Revelation. 

Some of the writers, like David and Solomon, were kings. Some, like 

Peter, James, and John, were simple fishermen. We know that the Old 

Testament writer and prophet Amos was a farmer and shepherd and 

the New Testament writer Luke, pictured at the left, was a doctor. 

As you read the books of the Bible, you will find the words “God said” 

over 3,800 times. Each of the writers who wrote down the truths that 

God revealed to him was careful to let us know that the words he 

recorded were God’s, not his own. For example, Moses wrote these 

words in the Book of Exodus just after He received the Ten Commandments 

from God on Mount Sinai in the wilderness: 

15 Moses turned and went down the mountain with the two tablets of 

the Testimony in his hands. They were inscribed on both sides, front 

and back. 16 The tablets were the work of God; the writing was the 

writing of God, engraved on the tablets. Exodus 32:15-16 

During a time when the nation of Israel turned away from God, God 

sent the prophet Jeremiah to warn them of their punishment if they 

did not repent. Jeremiah made it clear his message was from God: 

1 In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word 

came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 2 “Take a scroll and write on it all the 

words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the other nations from the time I began 

speaking to you in the reign of Josiah till now. 3 Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about every 

disaster I plan to inflict on them, each of them will turn from his wicked way; then I will forgive their 

wickedness and their sin.” 4 So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all 

the words the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on the scroll. Jeremiah 36:1-4 


 

Explain that chapter and verse numbers were not in the original Scriptures. They 

were added around 1250 A.D. as an aid to locating particular passages. 

Have students read Who Wrote the Bible? (SWT pp. 158-159). 

Who Wrote the Bible? God, of course, is the author of the Bible. But God did 

not sit down with pen and paper and begin to write His words to us. Instead, 

during a period of almost 1,600 years He spoke the truth He wanted recorded 

in the Bible to forty different men, beginning with Moses, who wrote Genesis, 


History 

New T e stament 




12 


Prophecy 


and ending with the apostle John, who wrote Revelation. Some 

of the writers, like David and Solomon, were kings. Some, like 

Peter, James, and John, were simple fishermen. We know that 

the Old Testament writer and prophet Amos was a farmer and 

shepherd and the New Testament writer Luke, pictured at the 

left, was a doctor. 

As you read the books of the Bible, you will find the words “God 

said” over 3,800 times. Each of the writers who wrote down the 

truths that God revealed to him was careful to let us know that the 

words he recorded were God’s, not his own. For example, Moses 

wrote these words in the Book of Exodus just after he received 

the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai in the wilderness: 

15 

Moses turned and went down the mountain with the two tablets of the Testimony 

in his hands. They were inscribed on both sides, front and back. 16 The 

tablets were the work of God; the writing was the writing of God, engraved on 

the tablets. Exodus 32:15-16 


John 

Luke 

Mark 

Matthew 

Acts 

Romans 

1 Corinthians 

2 Corinthians 

Galatians 

Ephesians 

Philippians 

Colossians 



2 Timothy 

1 Timothy 

Titus 

Philemon 

Hebrews 

James 

1 Peter 

2 Peter 

1 John 

2 John 

3 John 

Who Wrote the Bible? God, of course, is the author of the Bible. But God did not sit down with pen 

and paper and begin to write His words to us. Instead, during a period of almost 1,600 years He spoke 

the truth He wanted recorded in the Bible to forty different men, beginning with Moses, who wrote 

Genesis, and ending with the apostle John, who wrote Revelation. 

Some of the writers, like David and Solomon, were kings. Some, like 

Peter, James, and John, were simple fishermen. We know that the Old 

Testament writer and prophet Amos was a farmer and shepherd and 

the New Testament writer Luke, pictured at the left, was a doctor. 

As you read the books of the Bible, you will find the words “God said” 

over 3,800 times. Each of the writers who wrote down the truths that 

God revealed to him was careful to let us know that the words he 

recorded were God’s, not his own. For example, Moses wrote these 

words in the Book of Exodus just after He received the Ten Commandments 

from God on Mount Sinai in the wilderness: 

15 Moses turned and went down the mountain with the two tablets of 

the Testimony in his hands. They were inscribed on both sides, front 

and back. 16 The tablets were the work of God; the writing was the 

writing of God, engraved on the tablets. Exodus 32:15-16 

During a time when the nation of Israel turned away from God, God 

sent the prophet Jeremiah to warn them of their punishment if they 

did not repent. Jeremiah made it clear his message was from God: 

1 In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word 

came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 2 “Take a scroll and write on it all the 

words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the other nations from the time I began 

speaking to you in the reign of Josiah till now. 3 Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about every 

disaster I plan to infl ict on them, each of them will turn from his wicked way; then I will forgive their 

wickedness and their sin.” 4 So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all 

the words the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on the scroll. Jeremiah 36:1-4 


Jude 

Revelation 

158 

During a time when the nation of Israel turned away from God, God sent the 

prophet Jeremiah to warn them of their punishment if they did not repent. Jeremiah 

made it clear his message was from God: 

1 

In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came 

to Jeremiah from the LORD: 2 “Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have 

spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the other nations from the time I 

began speaking to you in the reign of Josiah till now. 3 Perhaps when the people 

of Judah hear about every disaster I plan to inflict on them, each of them will 

turn from his wicked way; then I will forgive their wickedness and their sin.” 4 So 

Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all the words 

the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on the scroll. 

Jeremiah 36:1-4 

The apostle Paul, a New Testament writer, made it clear 

that the words he wrote in a letter to new Christians in 

the city of Corinth were not his own words, but God’s. 

11 

. . . No one knows the thoughts that another person 

has. Only a person’s spirit that lives in him knows his 

thoughts. It is the same with God. No one knows the 

thoughts of God. Only the Spirit of God knows God’s 

thoughts. 12 We did not receive the spirit of the world, but we received the Spirit 

that is from God. We received this Spirit so that we can know all that God has 

given us. 13 When we speak we do not use words taught to us by the wisdom 

that men have. We use words taught to us by the Spirit. We use spiritual words 

to explain spiritual things. 1 Corinthians 2:11-13 ICB 

159 

The apostle Paul, a New Testament writer, made it clear that the words he wrote in a letter to new 

Christians in the city of Corinth were not his own words, but God’s. 

11 . . . No one knows the thoughts that another person 

has. Only a person’s spirit that lives in him knows 

his thoughts. It is the same with God. No one knows 

the thoughts of God. Only the Spirit of God knows 

God’s thoughts. 12 We did not receive the spirit of the 

world, be we received the Spirit that is from God. 

We received this Spirit so that we can know all that 

God has given us. 13 When we speak we do not use 

words taught to us by the wisdom that men have. 

We use words taught to us by the Spirit. We use 

spiritual words to explain spiritual things. 

1 Corinthians 2:11-13 ICB 

How Did Men Write the Bible? Men recorded God’s 

revelation of truth by a process called inspiration. Inspiration is the power of God that enabled each 

of the 40 men to write God’s words without any mistakes. 

16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for 

Inspiration 

teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in 

The power of God that enabled men to write 

righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be 

adequate, equipped for every good work. 

the words of Scripture without errors 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NAS 95 

The men who wrote down the words God inspired them to write were able to receive and understand 

His revelation of truth through a process called illumination. Illumination is the work of God’s Holy 

Spirit. 

Illumination 

The work of God by His Spirit that enabled 

men to receive and understand God’s 



12 And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s 

spirit), s so we can know the wonderful things God has 

freely given us. 13 When we tell you these things, we 

do d not use words that come from human wisdom. 

Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, 

using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. 

1 Corinthians 2:12-13 NLT 

Only as men were inspired by God were they able to write His revelation without mistakes. And only as 

they were illumined by the Holy Spirit were they able to understand the truth God revealed to them. In 


159 


Over a period of how many years did God reveal His words to the 

men who wrote of the Bible? 


173



12 


159 




















Inspiration 









Spirit. 

Illumination 















159 

 

To how many writers did God reveal His truth? 

Who was the first? Who was the last? 

What are the names of some of the men who wrote the Bible? 

What kinds of work did some of the writers of the Bible do? 

What did the men who wrote the Bible always say about what they 

were writing? Why? 

Have students read How Did Men Write the Bible? (SWT pp. 159-160). 

How Did Men Write the Bible? Men recorded God’s revelation of truth by a 

process called inspiration. Inspiration is the power of God that enabled each of 

the 40 men to write God’s words without any mistakes. 

16 

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, 

for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, 

equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NAS 95 

The men who wrote down the words God inspired them to write were able to 

receive and understand His revelation of truth through a process called illumination. 

Illumination is the work of God’s Holy Spirit. 

12 

And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know 

the wonderful things God has freely given us. 13 When we tell you these things, 

we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words 

given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. 


other words, through revelation God showed us truth we could never have known through our senses 

or reason. Through illumination, God allowed us to understand His truth. And through inspiration, God 

enabled men to write down His truth without error. 

The men to whom God revealed, inspired, and illumined His 

truths were not like robots, machines, or computer hard drives. 

No, they wrote as human beings. God miraculously allowed 

each writer to express his own personality, emotions, and 

experiences while he recorded God’s words. But their personalities 

did not keep them from recording God’s absolute truth. 

As you study the different books of the Bible, you will notice 

something about each writer’s personality in the way he writes. 

In other words, God did not stop His image-bearers from being 

the unique individuals and personalities He had created them 

to be. Nevertheless, they wrote the exact words God wanted 

them to communicate. 

In What Languages Was the Bible Written? The Old T e stament 

books of the Bible were written in Hebrew, the language 

of the Israelites. Today, Hebrew is still spoken in the nation of 

Israel. This unique language has 22 consonants but no vowels 

like the English a, e, i, o, and u. Unlike English and most modern languages, Hebrew is written right 

to left. This means that the first page of a Hebrew Bible would be the last page of an English Bible. 

Look at the picture of the Hebrew alphabet. Knowing 

that Hebrew reads from right to left, can you 

name the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet? The 

He Dalet Gimel Bet/Vet Aleph 

second letter? Do you see a word we use in English 

that comes from the first two letters of the Hebrew 

alphabet? What is the last letter of the Hebrew 

alphabet? 

Yu d T e t Chet Zayin Va v 

Before Jesus’ time on earth, the Greeks conquered 

much of the Middle East and beyond, including the 

land of Israel. They imposed the Greek language 

Samekh Nun Mem Lamed Kaph/Khaph 

throughout their empire. Although the Romans 

later conquered the Greeks and ruled much of the 

world when Jesus was born, Greek was still spoken 

throughout the Roman Empire. For this reason, the 

Resh Quph T s adi Pe/Phe Ayin 

New T e stament was written in the Greek language. 

The Greek alphabet has 24 letters and includes vowels. 

You probably recognize some of the letters. 

The Hebrew Alphabet 

T a v Shin/Sin 


160 

Only as men were inspired by God were they able to write His revelation without 

mistakes. And only as they were illumined by the Holy Spirit were they able to 

understand the truth God revealed to them. In other words, through revelation 

God showed us truth we could never have known through our senses or reason. 

Through illumination, God allowed us to understand His truth. And through 

inspiration, God enabled men to write down His truth without error. 

The men to whom God revealed, inspired, and illumined 

His truths were not like robots, machines, or computer hard 

drives. No, they wrote as human beings. God miraculously 

allowed each writer to express his own personality, emotions, 

and experiences while he recorded God’s words. But their 

personalities did not keep them from recording God’s absolute 

truth. As you study the different books of the Bible, you will 

notice something about each writer’s personality in the way 

he writes. In other words, God did not stop His image-bearers from being the 

unique individuals and personalities He had created them to be. Nevertheless, 

they wrote the exact words God wanted them to communicate. 


How did God insure that the men who wrote the Bible did so without 

making any mistakes? 




12 



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 10c, Inspiration: The power of God that 

enabled men to write the words of Scripture without errors. 

Have students locate the definition for inspiration (SWT p. 159). Discuss briefly 

to ascertain students' understanding. 


Why were the writers of the Bible able to understand what God was 

inspiring them to write? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 10d, Illumination: The work of God by 

His Spirit that enabled men to receive and understand God's revelation of 

Scripture. 

159 




















Inspiration 









Spirit. 

Illumination 











Have students locate the definition for illumination (SWT p. 159). Discuss briefly 





159 


The apostle Paul wrote at least two letters to a young preacher 

named Timothy in order to instruct and encourage him. In the second 

letter, Paul explained to Timothy the purposes of Scripture. What are 

the purposes of Scripture? 

What do we mean when we say the men who wrote the Bible were 

not like robots or computer hard drives? 

Why would God allow the writers who wrote His truth to express their 

own personalities? 

 

Have students read In What Languages Was the Bible Written? (SWT pp. 

160-161). 

In What Languages Was the Bible Written? The Old Testament books of the 

Bible were written in Hebrew, the language of the Israelites. Today, Hebrew is 

still spoken in the nation of Israel. This unique language has 22 consonants 

but no vowels like the English a, e, i, o, and u. Unlike English and most modern 

languages, Hebrew is written right to left. This means that the first page of a 

Hebrew Bible would be the last page of an English Bible. 

Look at the picture of the Hebrew alphabet. Knowing that Hebrew reads from 

right to left, can you name the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet? The second 

letter? Do you see a word we use in English that comes 

from the first two letters of the Hebrew alphabet? What 

is the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet? 


other words, through revelation God showed us truth we could never have known through our senses 

or reason. Through illumination, God allowed us to understand His truth. And through inspiration, God 

enabled men to write down His truth without error. 

The men to whom God revealed, inspired, and illumined His 

truths were not like robots, machines, or computer hard drives. 

No, they wrote as human beings. God miraculously allowed 

each writer to express his own personality, emotions, and 

experiences while he recorded God’s words. But their personalities 

did not keep them from recording God’s absolute truth. 

As you study the different books of the Bible, you will notice 

something about each writer’s personality in the way he writes. 

In other words, God did not stop His image-bearers from being 

the unique individuals and personalities He had created them 

to be. Nevertheless, they wrote the exact words God wanted 

them to communicate. 

In What Languages Was the Bible Written? The Old T e stament 

books of the Bible were written in Hebrew, the language 

of the Israelites. Today, Hebrew is still spoken in the nation of 

Israel. This unique language has 22 consonants but no vowels 

like the English a, e, i, o, and u. Unlike English and most modern languages, Hebrew is written right 

to left. This means that the fi rst page of a Hebrew Bible would be the last page of an English Bible. 

Look at the picture of the Hebrew alphabet. Knowing 

that Hebrew reads from right to left, can you 

name the fi rst letter of the Hebrew alphabet? The 


second letter? Do you see a word we use in English 

that comes from the fi rst two letters of the Hebrew 

alphabet? What is the last letter of the Hebrew 

alphabet? 

Yu d T e t Chet Zayin Va v 

Before Jesus’ time on earth, the Greeks conquered 

much of the Middle East and beyond, including the 

land of Israel. They imposed the Greek language 

Samekh Nun Mem Lamed Kaph/Khaph 

throughout their empire. Although the Romans 

later conquered the Greeks and ruled much of the 

world when Jesus was born, Greek was still spoken 

throughout the Roman Empire. For this reason, the 

Resh Quph T s adi Pe/Phe Ayin 

New T e stament was written in the Greek language. 

The Greek alphabet has 24 letters and includes vowels. 

You probably recognize some of the letters. 


T a v Shin/Sin 


160 

Before Jesus' time on earth, the Greeks conquered 

much of the Middle East and beyond, including the land 

of Israel. They imposed the Greek language throughout 

their empire. Although the Romans later conquered the 

Greeks and ruled much of the world when Jesus was 

born, Greek was still spoken throughout the Roman 

Yud Tet Chet 

Samekh Nun Mem 

Resh Quph Tsadi 


Zayin Vav 

Lamed Kaph/Khaph 

Pe/Phe Ayin 

Tav Shin/Sin 


175





Empire. For this reason, the New Testament was written in the Greek language. 

The Greek alphabet has 24 letters and includes vowels. You probably recognize 

some of the letters. 

161 

Like English, Greek is written from left to right. 

Look at the picture of Greek alphabet. Both the 

upper case and lower case letters are shown. 

What is the first letter of the Greek alphabet? 

The second? Do you see a word we use in 

English that comes from the first two letters of 

the Greek alphabet? What is the last letter of 

the Greek alphabet? 

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus referred to 

Himself as two letters in the Greek alphabet. 

Can you explain why? 

“I am the Alpha and the Omega––the beginning 

and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the 

one who is, who always was, and who is still to 

come––the Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8 NLT 


Αα Ββ Γγ ∆δ Εε Ζζ 

Alpha Beta Gamma Delta Epsilon Zeta 

Ηη Θθ Ιι Κκ Λλ Μµ 

Eta Theta Iota Kappa Lambda Mu 

Νν Ξξ Οο Ππ Ρρ Σσ 

Nu Xi Omicron Pi Rho Sigma 

Ττ Υυ Φφ Χχ Ψψ Ωω 

T a u Upsilon Phi Chi Psi Omega 

The Greek Alphabet 

On What Was the Bible Written? The writers of the Bible wrote down God’s words on papyrus or 

parchment. Papyrus paper was made from the inside of the stalk of reeds that grew along the Nile River 

or other marshy areas of Egypt. The stalks were laid out on top or each other and beaten together to 

form a smooth paper surface. When the sheets of beaten reed dried, writers could write on them. 

Like English, Greek is written from left to right. Look 

at the picture of Greek alphabet. Both the upper case 

and lower case letters are shown. What is the first letter 

of the Greek alphabet? The second? Do you see a 

word we use in English that comes from the first two 

letters of the Greek alphabet? What is the last letter 

of the Greek alphabet? 

Aa Bb Gg Dd Ee Zz 

Alpha Beta Gamma Delta Epsilon Zeta 

Hh Qq Ii Kk Ll Mm 

Eta Theta Iota Kappa Lambda Mu 

Nn Xx Oo Pp Rr Ss 

Nu Xi Omicron Pi Rho Sigma 

Tt Uu Ff Cc Yy Ww 

Tau Upsilon Phi Chi Psi Omega 

Parchment paper was made from the skins of sheep, goats, calves, and antelope. The skins were 

dried and scraped clean. When they were stretched and beaten flat, writers could write on them. The 

skins were sewn together and rolled up to make scrolls. Pens were made from reeds cut on one end 

to make a sharp writing tip. Ink was made from dyes and pigments from plants and insects. 

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus referred to Himself 

as two letters in the Greek alphabet. Can you explain why? 

The Greek Alphabet 

Papyrus 


Animal Skin Scroll 

161 

“I am the Alpha and the Omega––the beginning and the end,” says the Lord 

God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come––the 

Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8 NLT 


In what language was most of the Old Testament written? 

How does Hebrew differ from English? 

What language is spoken in Israel today? 

In what language was most of the New Testament written? Why? 

How is Greek like English? 

What letters in the Greek alphabet are similar to the letters in our 

modern Latin or Roman alphabet? 

What did Jesus mean when He said He was the Alpha and the 

Omega? 

Have students read On What Was the Bible Written? (SWT pp. 161-162). 

 

On What Was the Bible Written? The writers of the Bible 

wrote down God’s words on papyrus or parchment. Papyrus 

paper was made from the inside of the stalk of reeds that 

grew along the Nile River or other marshy areas of Egypt. 

The stalks were laid out on top or each other and beaten 

together to form a smooth paper surface. When the sheets 

of beaten reed dried, writers could write on them. 

Papyrus 

Parchment paper was made from the skins of sheep, goats, 

calves, and antelope. The skins were dried and scraped 

clean. When they were stretched and beaten flat, writers 

could write on them. The skins were sewn together and 

rolled up to make scrolls. Pens were made from reeds cut 

on one end to make a sharp writing tip. Ink was made from 

dyes and pigments from plants and insects. 

Animal Skin Scroll 



Psalm 23 

A psalm of David 


1 The LORD is my shepherd, 

I shall not be in want. 

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, 

he leads me beside quiet waters, 

3 he restores my soul. 

He guides me in paths of righteousness 

for his name’s sake. 

4 Even though I walk 

through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil, 

for you are with me; 

your rod and your staff, 

they comfort me. 

5 You prepare a table before me 

in the presence of my enemies. 

You anoint my head with oil; 

my cup overflows. 

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me 

all the days of my life, 

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD 

forever. 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his 

one and only Son, that whoever believes in him 

shall not perish but have eternal life.” 

outwV gar hgaphsen o qeoV ton kosmon 

wste ton uion ton monogenh edwken ina 

paV o pisteuwn eiV auton mh apolhtai 

all ech zwhn aiwnion. 

Compare the English and Hebrew texts of Psalm 23. 

Psalm 23 

A psalm of David 

1 The LORD is my shepherd, 

I shall not be in want. 

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, 

he leads me beside quiet waters, 

3 he restores my soul. 

He guides me in paths of righteousness 

for his name’s sake. 

4 Even though I walk 

through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil, 

for you are with me; 

your rod and your staff, 

they comfort me. 

5 You prepare a table before me 

in the presence of my enemies. 

You anoint my head with oil; 

my cup overflows. 

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me 

all the days of my life, 

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD 

forever. 

162 

Compare the English and Greek texts of John 3:16. 

Compare the English and Hebrew 

texts of Psalm 23. 

Compare the English and Greek texts 

of John 3:16. 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his 

one and only Son, that whoever believes in him 

shall not perish but have eternal life.” 

ουτως γαρ ηγαπησεν ο θεος τον κοσµον 

ωστε τον υιον τον µονογενη εδωκεν ινα 

πας ο πιστευων εις αυτον µη αποληται 

αλλ εχη ζωην αιωνιον. 

The Greek Spelling of "Jesus Christ" 

The Greek Spelling of Jesus Christ 



On what were the words of Scripture originally written since there 

was no paper, computers, or printers like we have today? 

What is a scroll? How would a scroll be read in Hebrew? As it was 

read, in which direction would it be rolled? 

What did the writers use for pens? How was ink made? 






topic 5. god personally reveals truth to us 

through his son, jesus 


Truth is not a construct of human reason. It exists because God, Who is truth, 

exists. It can be known because God chose to reveal it to us through creation and 

Scripture. Truth can be known more personally though because God chose to reveal 

it through the incarnation of His Son, Jesus (John 1:1, 14, 18; Hebrews 1:1-3). Christ 

is the sum and ultimate expression of God’s revelation because He is God Himself. 

Christ reveals God's will, His nature, His person, and His character. All that we read 

about God in the Old Testament, including His plan to redeem creation through the 

Messiah, is fulfilled in Christ. 

To look at Christ is to see God because He is the image of the invisible God 

(Colossians 1:15). He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), and in Him all 

truth holds together (Colossians 1:17). Through the indwelling of His Holy Spirit, 

Jesus personally continues to reveal and confirm the truth of God and His Word. 


177


165 


Topic 5 

God Personally Reveals Truth to Us Through His Son, Jesus 

Meeting the Artist: Let’s explore further how God reveals truth to us by continuing to use the example 

of an artist. We said in Topic 3 that an artist’s painting reveals that an artist exists. A painting cannot 

create itself out of nothing. And we saw how a painting can sometimes 

reveal information about the artist’s feelings and favorite 

subjects to paint. But we concluded that a painting cannot reveal 

everything about the artist and his or her work. 

T o learn more about the artist we 

said it would be helpful to read a 

book written by or about the artist. 

Such a book could tell us what the 

artist felt when painting or why he 

or she used certain colors or chose 

certain subjects to paint. 

Famous 

Animal Artists 


But think for a moment. If you truly enjoy the artist’s paintings and learned 

many interesting and intriguing facts about him or her from a book, what 

would you like to do next? How could you come to know the artist personally 

and learn even more about his or her art? The best way to know the 

artist personally is to meet face 

to face. But why? A personal 

meeting could show you if the artist you’ve read about and 

whose work you admire is as wonderful and talented a person 

as you’ve come to believe. The real person will hopefully turn 

out to be everything you have admired from a distance and 

maybe even more. Having a conversation with a great artist 

would allow you to verify what you believe is true. 

Review—Meeting the Creator and Tr uth Through Nature: Now think 

again about how God reveals Himself to us. We’ve learned that He 

reveals Himself through His magnifi cent creation. We know He exists 

because the creation cannot create itself any more than a painting can 

create itself. God’s creation tells us how powerful, wise, glorious, and 

good He is. 

For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and 

sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible 

qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. Romans 1:20 NLT 


165 


 


students' understanding. Have them read Meeting the Artist (SWT p. 165). 

Meeting the Artist: Let’s explore further how God reveals truth to us by continuing 

to use the example of an artist. We said in Topic 3 that an 

artist’s painting reveals that an artist exists. A painting cannot 

create itself out of nothing. And we saw how a painting can 

sometimes reveal information about the artist’s feelings and 

favorite subjects to paint. But we concluded that a painting cannot 

reveal everything about the artist and his or her work. 

Famous 

Animal Artists 

To learn more about the artist we said it would be helpful to read a 

book written by or about the artist. Such a book could tell us what 

the artist felt when painting or why he or she used certain colors 

or chose certain subjects to paint. 

 

But think for a moment. If you truly enjoy the artist’s paintings and 

learned many interesting and intriguing facts about him or her from a book, what 

would you like to do next? How could you come to know the artist personally and 

learn even more about his or her art? The best way to know the artist personally 

is to meet face to face. But why? A personal meeting could show you if the 

artist you’ve read about and whose work you admire is as 

wonderful and talented a person as you’ve come to believe. 

The real person will hopefully turn out to be everything you 

have admired from a distance and maybe even more. Having 

a conversation with a great artist would allow you to verify 

what you believe is true. 


What can a painting tell you about its painter? 

What can a book tell you about an artist and his or her paintings? 

To know more truth about an artist and to know the truth about his or 

her personality and works, what might you want to do? Why? 

How does the illustration of the artist help you understand what we 

have learned so far about God's revelation of truth to us? 

Can you think of a kind of revelation we haven't discussed yet? 

Have students read Review—Meeting the Creator and Truth Through Nature 

(SWT p. 165). 

Review—Meeting the Creator and Truth Through Nature: Now think again 

about how God reveals Himself to us. We’ve learned that He 

reveals Himself through His magnificent creation. We know He 

exists because the creation cannot create itself any more than a 

painting can create itself. God’s creation tells us how powerful, 

wise, glorious, and good He is. 


glory. Ephesians 1:12 ICB 

Isaiah 53:5 


For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. 

Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his 

eternal power and divine nature. Romans 1:20 NLT 



What does creation tell us about God? 

What can creation not tell us about God? 

 

Have students read Review—Meeting the Creator and Truth Through the Bible 

(SWT p. 166). 

Review—Meeting the Creator and Truth Through the Bible: There is much 

about God and the universe that creation doesn’t tell us. That’s why God chose 

to reveal more truth to us through the Bible. 

Lesson 10 

Review—Meeting the Creator and Tr uth Through the Bible: There is much about God and the universe 

that creation doesn’t tell us. That’s why God chose to reveal more truth to us through the Bible. 

From the Bible, we learn more truth about God Himself. 

“ . . . And there is no other God apart from me 

a righteous God and a Savior; 

there is none but me.” 

Isaiah 45:21 

We learn truth about where we and the universe came from. 

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. Colossians 1:16 

From the Bible, we learn truth about why God created us. 

And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own 

children through Jesus Christ. That was what he wanted and what 

pleased him. Ephesians 1:5 ICB 

. . . And we were chosen so that we would bring praise to God’s 

166 

From the Bible, we learn more truth about God Himself. 

“ . . . And there is no other God apart from me 

a righteous God and a Savior; 

there is none but me.” 

Isaiah 45:21 

From the Bible, we learn truth about why there is evil in the world. 

When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, 

for everyone sinned. Romans 5:12 NLT 

From the Bible, we learn the truth about God’s plan to destroy evil. We learn that He promised Satan 

in the Garden of Eden at the time of the fall that Jesus would one day destroy him. 

“I will make you and the woman enemies to each other. 

Your descendants and her descendants will be enemies. 

Her child will crush your head. 

And you will bite his heel.” 

Genesis 3:15 ICB 

But we also learn from the Bible that Jesus would have 

to suffer and die in order to defeat evil and restore us 

and all creation in relationship with God the Father. 

But he was pierced for our transgressions, 

he was crushed for our iniquities; 

the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, 

and by his wounds we are healed. 

166 


We learn truth about where we and the universe came from. 

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. Colossians 1:16 

From the Bible, we learn truth about why God created us. 

And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own children 

through Jesus Christ. That was what he wanted and what pleased him. 


. . . And we were chosen so that we would bring praise to God’s glory. 


From the Bible, we learn truth about why there is evil in the world. 

When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death 

spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. Romans 5:12 NLT 

From the Bible, we learn the truth about God’s plan to destroy evil. We learn 

that He promised Satan in the Garden of Eden at the time of the fall that Jesus 

would one day destroy him. 

“I will make you and the woman enemies to each other. 

Your descendants and her descendants will be enemies. 



Genesis 3:15 ICB 


179

© Bill Noller International Publishing 



But we also learn from the Bible that Jesus would have to suffer and die in 

order to defeat evil and restore us and all creation in relationship with God the 

Father. 





Isaiah 53:5 


What is one truth about God that Scripture tells us we cannot know 

from creation alone? 

What truths do the Scriptures tell us about ourselves and the universe? 

What truths do the Scriptures tell us about sin and evil? 

What truths do the Scriptures tell us about God's remedy for evil? 

How did God reveal the written truths of the Scriptures to us in Person? 

167 


Meeting the Creator and Tr uth in Person: We m eet God and hear His truth in His creation. We m eet 

God and hear His truth in the words of the Bible. But we meet God and see His truth most personally 

in Jesus Christ, His Son. Everything creation and Scripture reveal to us about God was shown to be 

true through the life and spoken words of Jesus. 

1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but 

in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through 

whom he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 

We don’t have to wonder if what God says about Himself and 

His plan for creation is true. People who lived in Jesus’ time 

actually saw Him with their eyes and heard Him with their ears. 

They met the Creator in Person—Jesus, the Son of God, God 

Himself—the third Person of the Holy Trinity. 

The Bible tells us that Jesus has many names—the Lion of Judah, 

the Son of Man, the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, 

the Good Shepherd, and others. 

But two names in particular tell us that Jesus is God’s Word 

and the truth. Jesus said of Himself, “I am the way and the truth 

and the life” (John 14:6). And in Revelation, the last book of the 

Bible, God reveals another name for Jesus: “. . . and his name 

is the Word of God” (Revelation 19:13). It is this Jesus, the Word 

of God and the Truth, Who came to earth that we might know 

God personally, in the flesh: 

 

Have students read Meeting the Creator and Truth in Person (SWT pp. 167- 

168). 

Meeting the Creator and Truth in Person: We meet God and hear His truth 

in His creation. We meet God and hear His truth in the words of the Bible. But 

we meet God and see His truth most personally in Jesus Christ, His Son. Everything 

creation and Scripture reveal to us about God was shown to be true 

through the life and spoken words of Jesus. 

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, 


and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 

3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing 

was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that 

life was the light of men. 

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. 

We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who 

came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 

John 1:1-4, 14 

Jesus was not a ghost, a light, or an invisible energy force. 

He was a real human being. He talked, walked, ate, slept, 

hurt, laughed, and cried. He was seen and touched. But 

He was still fully God. 

167 

1 

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and 

in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom 

he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 

Hebrews 1:1-2 

We don’t have to wonder if what God says about Himself and 

His plan for creation is true. People who lived in Jesus’ time 

actually saw Him with their eyes and heard Him with their ears. 

They met the Creator in Person—Jesus, the Son of God, God 

Himself—the third Person of the Holy Trinity. 

The Bible tells us that Jesus has many names—the Lion of 

Judah, the Son of Man, the Bread of Life, 

the Light of the World, the Good Shepherd, and others. 

But two names in particular tell us that Jesus is God’s Word 

and the truth. Jesus said of Himself, “I am the way and the 

truth and the life” (John 14:6). And in Revelation, the last 

book of the Bible, God reveals another name for Jesus: 

“. . . and his name is the Word of God” (Revelation 19:13). It 





is this Jesus, the Word of God and the Truth, Who came to earth that we might 

know God personally, in the flesh: 


1 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was 

God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; 

without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that 

life was the light of men. 

14 

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his 

glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace 

and truth. John 1:1-4, 14 

Jesus was not a ghost, a light, or an invisible energy force. He was a real human 

being. He talked, walked, ate, slept, hurt, laughed, and cried. He was seen and 

touched. But He was still fully God. 

1 

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, 

which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at 

and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning 

the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and 

testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was 

with the Father and has appeared to us. 1 John 1:1-2 

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. Colossians 1:15 NLT 


Through Whom did God speak His truth to us in Person? 

What does Jesus say about Himself? 

What name for Jesus is revealed in the last book of the Bible? 

What does the Gospel writer John mean when he writes, ''In the 

beginning was the Word"? 

Who is the Word? 

What does John mean when he writes, "The Word became flesh"? 

What were people who lived when Jesus lived on earth able to do 

because God became flesh in the Person of His Son? 

Of Whom is Jesus the image? 

Why did Jesus, the Word, become flesh and live among us? 

How does Jesus' physical life on earth relate to God's promises in 

the Old Testament? 

Lesson 10 

1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, 




testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which 

was with the Father and has appeared to us. 1 John 1:1-2 

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. 

Colossians 1:15 NLT 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Words: 

As God inspired the men who wrote the Old T e stament, He 

declared that His words were truth. 

“I, the LORD, speak the truth; I declare what is right.” Isaiah 45:19 

When Jesus, the Word of God, became fl esh and lived on earth, He assured people that He had come 

to show them in person that God’s words were true. They would be able to see that everything God 

said in Scripture was absolutely true. Jesus said, “. . . for this reason I was born, and for this I came 

into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me” (John 18:37). 

God told Isaiah that Jesus would be born from King David’s family. Jesus would be filled with wisdom 

and knowledge of God’s truth. 

1 Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot— 

yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. 

2 And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him–– 

the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, 

the Spirit of counsel and might, 

the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. 

Isaiah 11 :1-2 NLT 

For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, 

for God gives the Spirit without limit. John 3:34 

God the Son, filled with God the Father’s wisdom and 

Spirit, set out to teach the people the truth of God’s plan 

for creation. 

16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, 

as was his custom. And he stood up to read. 17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to 

him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he 

has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. . . .” Luke 4:16-18 

168 


168 

 

Have students read Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God's Words (SWT 

p. 168). 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God’s Words: As God inspired the 

men who wrote the Old Testament, He declared that His words were truth. 


When Jesus, the Word of God, became flesh and lived on earth, He assured 

people that He had come to show them in person that God’s words were true. 


181





Lesson 10 


168 

1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, 




testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which 

was with the Father and has appeared to us. 1 John 1:1-2 

They would be able to see that everything God said in Scripture was absolutely 

true. Jesus said, “. . . for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the 

world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me” (John 

18:37). 

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. 


Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Words: 

As God inspired the men who wrote the Old T e stament, He 

declared that His words were truth. 


God told Isaiah that Jesus would be born from King David’s family. Jesus would 

be filled with wisdom and knowledge of God’s truth. 

When Jesus, the Word of God, became flesh and lived on earth, He assured people that He had come 

to show them in person that God’s words were true. They would be able to see that everything God 

said in Scripture was absolutely true. Jesus said, “. . . for this reason I was born, and for this I came 

into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me” (John 18:37). 

God told Isaiah that Jesus would be born from King David’s family. Jesus would be fi lled with wisdom 

and knowledge of God’s truth. 

1 Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot— 


2 And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him–– 




Isaiah 11 :1-2 NLT 

For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, 

for God gives the Spirit without limit. John 3:34 

God the Son, filled with God the Father’s wisdom and 

Spirit, set out to teach the people the truth of God’s plan 

for creation. 

16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, 

as was his custom. And he stood up to read. 17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to 

him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he 

has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. . . .” Luke 4:16-18 

168 


1 

Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot— 


2 

And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him–– 




Isaiah 11:1-2 NLT 

For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the 

Spirit without limit. John 3:34 

God the Son, filled with God the Father’s wisdom and Spirit, set out to teach 

the people the truth of God’s plan for creation. 

16 

He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath 

day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. And he stood up to read. 

17 

The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the 

place where it is written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has 

anointed me to preach good news to the poor. . . .” Luke 4:16-18 


What truth did God speak through Isaiah, the prophet? 

For what reason did Jesus say He came to earth? 

Through Isaiah, what did God promise about His Son Who would be 

born from the family of the Hebrew King David? 

What did Jesus say and do that personally revealed the truth of 

God's Words to the prophet Isaiah? 

169 


Have students read Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God's Compassion 

for His Image-Bearers (SWT p. 169). 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Compassion for His Image-Bearers: The fall not 

only separated us spiritually from God, it brought God’s judgment of physical decay and death to our 

bodies. But long before Jesus was born and began His ministry of healing on earth, God spoke these 

compassionate words of truth: 

4 Say to those with fearful hearts, 

“Be strong, and do not fear, 

for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. 

He is coming to save you.” 

5 And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind 

and unplug the ears of the deaf. 

6 The lame will leap like a deer, 

and those who cannot speak will sing for joy!” 


When Jesus lived on earth, He revealed the truths of God’s compassion for His image-bearers by 

performing miracles of healing. 

. . . and people brought to him all who were ill with 

various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the 

demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the 

paralyzed, and he healed them. Matthew 4:24 

Once when John the Baptist sent two men to ask 

Jesus if He really were the Messiah or Anointed 

One, Whom God had promised long ago to send 

to Israel, Jesus answered them: 

“Go back and report to John what you have seen 

and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, 

those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, 

the dead are raised, and the good news is preached 

to the poor.” Luke 7:22 

In speaking these words, Jesus personally revealed that He had proven the truth of God’s compassion 

spoken many, many years before through the prophet Isaiah. 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Plan to Redeem All of Creation: Beginning in the 

Garden of Eden after the fall and continuing through the many years of the Old T e stament period, God 

revealed the truth of His plan to redeem His fallen image-bearers and all the relationships of creation. 

For centuries, people had read or heard about this plan, but had not seen it fulfi lled in their lifetimes. 

But knowing that God’s words were truth, they looked forward in faith to the day God would fulfi ll His 

promise. 

 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God’s Compassion for His Image- 

Bearers: The fall not only separated us spiritually from God, it brought God’s 

judgment of physical decay and death to our bodies. But long before Jesus 

was born and began His ministry of healing on earth, God spoke these compassionate 

words of truth: 

4 

Say to those with fearful hearts, 





169 




5 

And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind 


6 

The lame will leap like a deer, 



When Jesus lived on earth, He revealed the truths of God’s compassion for His 

image-bearers by performing miracles of healing. 

. . . and people brought to him all who were ill with various 

diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demonpossessed, 

those having seizures, and the paralyzed, 

and he healed them. Matthew 4:24 

Once when John the Baptist sent two men to ask Jesus 

if He really were the Messiah or Anointed One, Whom 

God had promised long ago to send to Israel, Jesus 

answered them: 

169 



Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Compassion for His Image-Bearers: The fall not 

only separated us spiritually from God, it brought God’s judgment of physical decay and death to our 

bodies. But long before Jesus was born and began His ministry of healing on earth, God spoke these 

compassionate words of truth: 

4 Say to those with fearful hearts, 




5 And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind 


6 The lame will leap like a deer, 



When Jesus lived on earth, He revealed the truths of God’s compassion for His image-bearers by 

performing miracles of healing. 

. . . and people brought to him all who were ill with 

various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the 

demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the 

paralyzed, and he healed them. Matthew 4:24 

Once when John the Baptist sent two men to ask 

Jesus if He really were the Messiah or Anointed 

One, Whom God had promised long ago to send 

to Israel, Jesus answered them: 

“Go back and report to John what you have seen 

and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, 

those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, 

the dead are raised, and the good news is preached 

to the poor.” Luke 7:22 

In speaking these words, Jesus personally revealed that He had proven the truth of God’s compassion 

spoken many, many years before through the prophet Isaiah. 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Tr uth of God’s Plan to Redeem All of Creation: Beginning in the 

Garden of Eden after the fall and continuing through the many years of the Old T e stament period, God 

revealed the truth of His plan to redeem His fallen image-bearers and all the relationships of creation. 

For centuries, people had read or heard about this plan, but had not seen it fulfi lled in their lifetimes. 

But knowing that God’s words were truth, they looked forward in faith to the day God would fulfi ll His 

promise. 


169 

 

“Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive 

sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead 

are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.” Luke 7:22 

In speaking these words, Jesus personally revealed that He had proven the 

truth of God’s compassion spoken many, many years before through the prophet 

Isaiah. 


What truth did God reveal through the prophet Isaiah? 

What does God's promise to heal the people tell us about Him? 

How did Jesus personally reveal the truth of God's compassion for 

His image-bearers? 

What did Jesus say and do on earth that personally revealed the 

truth of God's promise to Isaiah? 

Have students read Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God's Plan of Redemption 

for All Creation (SWT p. 169-170). 

Jesus Personally Reveals the Truth of God’s Plan to Redeem All of Creation: 

Beginning in the Garden of Eden after the fall and continuing through 

the many years of the Old Testament period, God revealed the truth of His plan 

to redeem His fallen image-bearers and all the relationships of creation. For 

centuries, people had read or heard about this plan, but had not seen it fulfilled 

in their lifetimes. But knowing that God’s words were truth, they looked forward 

in faith to the day God would fulfill His promise. 

“All flesh shall know 

that I, the LORD, am your Savior, 

And your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.” 

Isaiah 49:26 NASB 


183



Lesson 10 


170 

“All flesh shall know 

that I, the LORD, am your Savior, 

And your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.” 

Isaiah 49:26 NASB 

“The Redeemer will come to Zion, 

to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,” 

declares the LORD. 

Isaiah 59:20 





Isaiah 53:5 

Many years later, the Word of God became flesh in the 

form of a tiny baby born in Bethlehem. As Jesus began His 

ministry of teaching and healing, He told His disciples that 

He knew the mission God the Father had sent Him to earth 

to accomplish. 

14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep 

know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the 

Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.” 

John 10:14-15 

And at age thirty-three, Jesus fulfilled God’s mission. In the most personal way possible, Jesus revealed 

the truth of God’s plan for redemption by laying down His life for God’s sinful image-bearers. 

“The Redeemer will come to Zion, 

to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,” 

declares the LORD. 

Isaiah 59:20 





Isaiah 53:5 

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not 

perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 

“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people.” Luke 1:68 NKJV 

Jesus Will Personally Reveal the Tr uth of God’s Promise to Renew All of Creation: We know that 

Jesus revealed in person the truth of God’s plan for the redemption of creation. Jesus came to earth 

and died on the cross so that all creation could be restored in harmony with God. Those who believe 

that Jesus is God’s Son and their Savior and repent of their sins are restored in fellowship with God. 

They are new creations, and they are restored in harmony with others as members of Jesus’ body, His 

church. But what about our physical bodies and the earth—aren’t they still dying? And what happened 

to the people Jesus healed when He lived on earth—didn’t they eventually die anyway? 

170 


Many years later, the Word of God became flesh in the 

form of a tiny baby born in Bethlehem. As Jesus began His 

ministry of teaching and healing, He told His disciples that 

He knew the mission God the Father had sent Him to earth to accomplish. 

 

14 

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just 

as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the 

sheep.” John 10:14-15 

And at age thirty-three, Jesus fulfilled God’s mission. In the most personal way 

possible, Jesus revealed the truth of God’s plan for redemption by laying down 

His life for God’s sinful image-bearers. 

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever 

believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 

“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people.” 

Luke 1:68 NKJV 


What truth did God reveal through Isaiah the prophet? 

How did Jesus personally reveal the truth of God's plan for redemption? 

What does the Bible mean when it says that Jesus has visited and 

redeemed His people? 

Briefly discuss the concept of redemption—the buying back or paying of a ransom 

in order to set free, in this case to set free from the penalty of death and 

separation from God because of our sin. 

Have students read Jesus Will Personally Reveal the Truth of God's Promise 

to Renew All of Creation (SWT pp. 170-171). 

Jesus Will Personally Reveal the Truth of God’s Promise to Renew All of 

Creation: We know that Jesus revealed in person the truth of God’s plan for the 

redemption of creation. Jesus came to earth and died on the cross so that all 

creation could be restored in harmony with God. Those who believe that Jesus 

is God’s Son and their Savior and repent of their sins are restored in fellowship 

with God. They are new creations, and they are restored in harmony with others 




as members of Jesus’ body, His church. But what about our physical bodies 

and the earth—aren’t they still dying? And what happened to the people Jesus 

healed when He lived on earth—didn’t they eventually die anyway? 

To answer these questions, we have to look again at God’s 

Word. Long ago, God promised that the physical creation 

would once again be made new. This includes a new heaven 

and earth. God revealed this truth to the Old Testament 

writer and prophet, Isaiah: 

“Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth.” 

Isaiah 65:17 

The renewal of the physical creation will include new bodies for all people, including 

those Jesus healed when He lived on earth who eventually died. God 

revealed this truth to the apostle Paul, a New Testament writer: 

171 



T o answer these questions, we have to look again at God’s 

Word. Long ago, God promised that the physical creation 

would once again be made new. This includes a new heaven 

and earth. God revealed this truth to the Old T e stament 

writer and prophet, Isaiah: 

“Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth.” 

Isaiah 65:17 

The renewal of the physical creation will include new bodies 

for all people, including those Jesus healed when He 

lived on earth who eventually died. God revealed this truth 

to the apostle Paul, a New T e stament writer: 

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a 

commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and 

with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. 

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NLT 

For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be 

transformed into immortal bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:53 NLT 

God also revealed His promise to create a new heavens and 

a new earth in a vision to the apostle John, a New T e stament 

writer. John describes his vision in the last book of the Bible, 

Revelation. 

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven 

and the first earth had passed away. . . . Revelation 21:1 

In this vision, John saw that it was Jesus Who was once 

again personally revealing the truth of God’s Word. It was 

Jesus Who was making everything in creation new, just as 

God had promised long ago. 

[Jesus] who was seated on the throne said, “I am making 

everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these 

words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5 

Jesus personally revealed and fulfilled the truth of God’s 

words in the past. He continues to reveal the truth of God’s words today. And He will personally reveal 

the truth of God’s Word again. How do we know? Read Jesus’ own words again: “. . . for this reason 

I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth . . .” (John 18:3). 


171 

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with 

the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians 

who have died will rise from their graves. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 NLT 

For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal 

bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:53 NLT 

God also revealed His promise to create a new heavens and a new earth in a 

vision to the apostle John, a New Testament writer. John describes his vision 

in the last book of the Bible, Revelation. 

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first 

earth had passed away. . . . Revelation 21:1 

In this vision, John saw that it was Jesus Who was once 

again personally revealing the truth of God’s Word. It was 

Jesus Who was making everything in creation new, just as 

God had promised long ago. 

[Jesus] who was seated on the throne said, “I am making 

everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these 

words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5 

Jesus personally revealed and fulfilled the truth of God’s words in the past. He 

continues to reveal the truth of God’s words today. And He will personally reveal 

the truth of God’s Word again. How do we know? Read Jesus’ own words again: 

“. . . for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to 

the truth . . .” (John 18:3). 


What truth did God reveal through the Old Testament prophet Isaiah? 

What truth did God reveal through the New Testament writer Paul? 


185




How will Jesus personally reveal the truth of God's plan to renew all 

creation? 

Why can we believe that Jesus will reveal the truth of God's promises 

when He returns to earth? 

Why did Jesus, the Word of God, become flesh and live on earth? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Scripture Search (SWT pp. 

173-174) and Scripture Search (SWT pp. 175-176). If you prefer, create comprehension, 




Topic 6. can we know jesus as the truth in person today? 


While Jesus lived on the earth, people saw, heard, and touched Him. The Word 

had become flesh as a real Person and personally revealed the truths of God and 

His plan for creation to thousands of people. But what about today? Didn't Jesus' 

ascension back to the Father in heaven after His resurrection bring an end to His 

personal revelation of God's truth? After all, we can no longer see Him, touch Him, 

hear His voice, or observe His behaviors. Or can we? 

Before His death, Jesus promised His disciples that in His physical absence, He 

would send His Holy Spirit to indwell and teach people who would acknowledge 

Him as God's Son and their Savior (John 14:16-26; 1 John 4:13-15). Through the 

indwelling of His Holy Spirit, God reveals Himself even more personally than when 

He lived on earth. Through this intimate indwelling relationship with believers, Jesus 

illumines and guides His children in all truth as He works to conform them to His 

image for His glory (Colossians 3:10; Philippians 2:13). And it is God's Spirit living in 

us that personally testifies with our spirit that we are His children (Romans 8:16). 

177 


Topic 6 

Can We Know Jesus as the Truth in Person Today? 

But I’ve Never Seen Jesus Personally: Thousands of people saw God’s most personal revelation 

in Jesus Christ while He lived on the earth. But even then, some who saw Jesus did not believe. After 

Jesus rose from death, He appeared to His disciples. But one of them did not believe he was seeing 

Jesus. Do you know who that disciple was? The apostle John recorded this story about Jesus and 

Thomas in his Gospel. 

We can also know Jesus personally today through God's revealed Word to the writers 

of the New Testament, all of whom were changed by Jesus and most of whom were 

eyewitnesses to His life, words, and ministry. Through these Scriptures coupled 

with the personal indwelling of His Spirit, Christians can say without reservation, 

"We know Jesus personally. We know Him experientially. We know Him intimately 

as He lives in us and we live in Him." 

24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was 

not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other 

disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” 

But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his 

hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put 

my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” 


26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and 

Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, 

Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace 

be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger 

here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into 

my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 

28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 

29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have 

not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:24-29 

But what about us today? How can we be 

blessed for believing in Jesus as God’s Son as 

He said to Thomas? We haven’t heard Jesus’ 

voice speak God’s truth to us personally. We 

haven’t seen Jesus in His physical body or 

touched Him like Thomas was able to do. 

First, we can believe in Jesus because God 

made sure that eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life, 

death, and resurrection on the earth wrote 

down their accounts that we can read today in God’s Word, the Bible. These true stories of Jesus’ life 

on earth are found in the books of the Bible we call the New T e stament. Through these holy and true 

writings, we can know about Jesus’ personal life on the earth as the living Word of God. 


177 

 


understanding. Have them read But I've Never Seen Jesus Personally. 

But I’ve Never Seen Jesus Personally: Thousands of people saw God’s most 

personal revelation in Jesus Christ while He lived on the earth. But even then, 

some who saw Jesus did not believe. After Jesus rose from death, He appeared 

to His disciples. But one of them did not believe he was seeing Jesus. Do you 




know who that disciple was? The apostle John recorded this story about Jesus 

and Thomas in his Gospel. 

24 

Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was 




hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my 

hand into his side, I will not believe it.” 

26 

A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with 

them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and 

said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; 

see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and 

believe.” 

177 


Topic 6 

Can We Know Jesus as the Truth in Person Today? 

But I’ve Never Seen Jesus Personally: Thousands of people saw God’s most personal revelation 

in Jesus Christ while He lived on the earth. But even then, some who saw Jesus did not believe. After 

Jesus rose from death, He appeared to His disciples. But one of them did not believe he was seeing 

Jesus. Do you know who that disciple was? The apostle John recorded this story about Jesus and 

Thomas in his Gospel. 

24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was 




hands and put my fi nger where the nails were, and put 

my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” 

26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and 

Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, 

Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace 

be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger 

here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into 

my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 

28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 

29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have 

not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:24-29 

But what about us today? How can we be 

blessed for believing in Jesus as God’s Son as 

He said to Thomas? We haven’t heard Jesus’ 

voice speak God’s truth to us personally. We 

haven’t seen Jesus in His physical body or 

touched Him like Thomas was able to do. 

First, we can believe in Jesus because God 

made sure that eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life, 

death, and resurrection on the earth wrote 

down their accounts that we can read today in God’s Word, the Bible. These true stories of Jesus’ life 

on earth are found in the books of the Bible we call the New T e stament. Through these holy and true 

writings, we can know about Jesus’ personal life on the earth as the living Word of God. 



177 

28 

Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 

29 

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed 

are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:24-29 

But what about us today? How can we be blessed 

for believing in Jesus as God’s Son as He said to 

Thomas? We haven’t heard Jesus’ voice speak God’s 

truth to us personally. We haven’t seen Jesus in His 

physical body or touched Him like Thomas was able to do. 

First, we can believe in Jesus because God made sure that eyewitnesses to 

Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection on the earth wrote down their accounts that 

we can read today in God’s Word, the Bible. These true stories of Jesus’ life on 

earth are found in the books of the Bible we call the New Testament. Through 

these holy and true writings, we can know about Jesus’ personal life on the 

earth as the living Word of God. 

Second, although we can’t touch or see Jesus physically, 

God gave us a way of knowing the truth of Jesus even 

more personally than those who lived 2,000 years ago 

when Jesus lived on the earth. Do you know how? For 

those who believe in Jesus as God’s Son and accept Him 

as their Savior, God does something extremely personal: 

He comes through His Holy Spirit to live inside of us. 

14 

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior 

of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives 

in him and he in God. 1 John 4:14-15 

5 

. . . He saved us by making us new through the Holy Spirit. 6 God poured out to 

us that Holy Spirit fully through Jesus Christ our Savior. Titus 3:5-6 ICB 

Lesson 10 


God gave us a way of knowing the truth of Jesus even more 

personally than those who lived 2,000 years ago when Jesus 

lived on the earth. Do you know how? For those who believe 

in Jesus as God’s Son and accept Him as their Savior, God 

does something extremely personal: He comes through His 

Holy Spirit to live inside of us. 

14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his 

Son to be the Savior of the world 15 If anyone acknowledges that 

Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. 

1 John 4:14-15 

5 . . . He saved us by making us new through the Holy Spirit. 

6 God poured out to us that Holy Spirit fully through Jesus Christ our Savior. Titus 3:5-6 ICB 

Just imagine what this means. God, the Creator of the heavens and earth and everything in them— 

the only true and Almighty God—lives in His children by His Holy Spirit. There can be nothing more 

personal than that! 

And what is even more wonderful is that God’s Spirit in us continually reveals the truth of every word 

God ever spoke. His Spirit is our Helper, leading us and teaching us His truth. As you read God’s 

written Word, His Spirit makes it come alive in your 

heart. The Spirit of truth makes sure that each of 

God’s children knows the truth and knows the One 

who is truth very, very personally! 

16 “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another 

Helper, that He may be with you forever; 17 that 

is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, 

because it does not see Him or know Him, but you 

know Him because He abides with you and will be 

in you. 

25 “These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom 

the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that 

I said to you.” John 14:16-17, 25-26 NAS 95 

Memory Verse 

In a world where many people are confused about 

what is true, God promises us that He is the Truth 

and that He will teach us His truth. If you desire to 

Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will 

know truth, make this memory verse your prayer 

walk in your truth. Psalm 86:11 

every day. God will hear your prayer! God will reveal 

His truth to you! 

178 


178 

Just imagine what this means. God, the Creator of the heavens and earth and 


187


Lesson 10 


178 


God gave us a way of knowing the truth of Jesus even more 

personally than those who lived 2,000 years ago when Jesus 

lived on the earth. Do you know how? For those who believe 

in Jesus as God’s Son and accept Him as their Savior, God 

does something extremely personal: He comes through His 

Holy Spirit to live inside of us. 

14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his 

Son to be the Savior of the world 15 If anyone acknowledges that 

Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. 

1 John 4:14-15 

5 . . . He saved us by making us new through the Holy Spirit. 

6 God poured out to us that Holy Spirit fully through Jesus Christ our Savior. Titus 3:5-6 ICB 

Just imagine what this means. God, the Creator of the heavens and earth and everything in them— 

the only true and Almighty God—lives in His children by His Holy Spirit. There can be nothing more 

personal than that! 

And what is even more wonderful is that God’s Spirit in us continually reveals the truth of every word 

God ever spoke. His Spirit is our Helper, leading us and teaching us His truth. As you read God’s 

written Word, His Spirit makes it come alive in your 

heart. The Spirit of truth makes sure that each of 

God’s children knows the truth and knows the One 

who is truth very, very personally! 

16 “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another 




know Him because He abides with you and will be 

in you. 

25 “These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom 

the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that 

I said to you.” John 14:16-17, 25-26 NAS 95 

Memory Verse 

In a world where many people are confused about 

what is true, God promises us that He is the Truth 

and that He will teach us His truth. If you desire to 

Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will 

know truth, make this memory verse your prayer 

walk in your truth. Psalm 86:11 

every day. God will hear your prayer! God will reveal 

His truth to you! 

178 


everything in them—the only true and Almighty God—lives in His children by 

His Holy Spirit. There can be nothing more personal than that! 

And what is even more wonderful is that God’s Spirit in us continually reveals 

the truth of every word God ever spoke. His Spirit is our Helper, leading us and 

teaching us His truth. As you read God’s written Word, His Spirit makes it come 

alive in your heart. The Spirit of truth makes sure that each of God’s children 

knows the truth and knows the One Who is truth very, 

very personally! 

16 

“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another 




know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. 

25 

“These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. 26 But the Helper, 

the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all 

things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” 

John 14:16-17, 25-26 NAS 95 

In a world where many people are confused about what is true, God promises 

us that He is the Truth and that He will teach us His truth. If you desire to know 

truth, make this memory verse (below) your prayer every day. God will hear 

your prayer! God will reveal His truth to you! 


Why do you think Thomas did not believe the other disciples when 

they told him they had seen Jesus Who had risen from death? 

What did Thomas have to do before he would believe that Jesus was 

alive? 

What did Jesus say about people who have not seen Him and still 

believe in Him? 

What did God do so that we who live after the time Jesus lived on 

earth can still know Him personally? 

Do you know Jesus personally today like people did when He lived 

on earth? Why? Why not? 

Have students locate the second Memory Verse for Lesson 10 (SWT p. 178). 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 10 Memory Verse 2, Psalm 86:11. 

Have students read and recite the verse. Discuss in relation to the personal and 

living interaction between God and believers made possible by the indwelling 

of the Holy Spirit, Who illumines the Living Word. 

 

Teach me your way, O LORD, 

and I will walk in your truth. 

Psalm 86:11 





How does God teach us His truth today? 

Do you really want God to teach you His way? Why? 

What commitment will you make when God does teach you? Why? 

DISPLAY the Worldview Model. Have students identify the parts of the House 

of Truth that correlate with this lesson's focus on truth (the Rock of Truth and 

the Foundation of Wisdom, particularly Biblical Truth 1). Because you cannot 

separate God Who is Truth from truth itself, both the Rock of Truth and the 

Foundation of Wisdom represent the source of truth upon which the biblical 

Christian worldview is founded. 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Thinking About It (SWT p. 

179) and Hiding God's Word (p. 180). If you prefer, create comprehension, application, 



189



LESSON 15 

"For by him all things were created" Colossians 1:16 

The Biblical Christian View of the Universe 

Introduction 


Lesson 15 introduces students to the biblical Christian view of the universe by 

addressing five major questions posed by people from all cultures throughout 

history: Where did the universe come from? If God created the universe, why did 

He create it? If God created the universe, what is His relationship to it? What is my 

relationship to the universe? and What is the destiny of the universe? The lesson 

focuses on God's eternal plan for the universe—its redemption, renewal, and eternal 

existence and its inherent goodness. 

lesson 15 Memory Verses 

15 

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything 

was created and is supreme over all creation, 16 for through him God created 

everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. Colossians 1:15-16 NLT 

"You are worthy, O Lord our God, 

to receive glory and honor and power. 

For you created all things, 

and they exist because you created what you pleased." 

Revelation 4:11 NLT 

20 

Against its will, all creation was subjected to God's curse. But with eager 

hope 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children 

in glorious freedom from death and decay. Romans 8:20-21 NLT 




See Syllabus, p. xx 




lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














Objectives 

• Students will identify five "universal" questions people throughout history have 

asked about the universe. 

• Students will answer the question Where did the universe come from? by contrasting 

the naturalist view of its origin with the biblical Christian view. 

• Students will answer the question Why did God create the universe? by exploring 

Scriptures that reveal four key reasons for its creation. 

• Students will answer the question What is God's relationship to the universe? by 

exploring His sustaining power over all its living and nonliving dimensions. 


321



• Students will answer the question What is my relationship to the universe? by 

exploring their responsibilities as stewards of the earth specified by the cultural 

mandate. 

• Students will answer the question What is the destiny of the universe? by exploring 

the relationship between God's plan for redemption and His promise to create a 

new heaven and a new earth, the eternal home of the redeemed. 

Materials 



Lesson 15 Memory Verse 1 Colossians 1:15-16 NLT 

Lesson 15 Memory Verse 2 Revelation 4:11 NLT 

Lesson 15 Memory Verse 3 Romans 8:20-21 NLT 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 




Scripture Search: pp.329-330 


Topic 2 



Topic 3 







Nature's Classroom: In a group discussion, have students compile a list 

of predictably occurring events they have experienced in their current 

community or other places they have lived (i.e., seasons, migrations, day/ 

night, planting/harvesting, moon phases, constellation locations, animal and 

plant breeding, etc.). Have students discuss what life on earth would be 

like without the regularity of these events and what their regularity reveals 

to them about God. 

Effects of the Fall: Have students brainstorm to create a list of physical 

disharmony in the universe today as a result of God's curse of the earth. 

(Suggestion: Take students on a short walk around the school neighborhood 

to identify visual evidence of the fall). In contrast, have students identify 

evidence of the goodness of creation and God's continual sustaining of it 

for the benefit of His image-bearers. 


"For By Him All Things Were Created" Colossians 1:16 

God's Provisions: Have students identify resources provided by God for 

sustaining human existence. Have them identify not only foods, but also 

natural resources that sustain life (air, water) and raw materials from which 

we create clothing, shelter, tools, machines, etc. Prepare a bulletin board 

with pictures of resources God provides and of products people create from 

the resources God provides. 


Ruling Over: Have students compile a list of the living and nonliving 

dimensions of creation (i.e., air, land, water, plants, animals, etc.). Have 

them discuss how they do or could "rule over" each dimension. 

Questions About Heaven: Invite students to submit questions about life on 

the new earth. Possible questions could include the following: 

What will the new earth be like? 

What will our lives be like? 

How will we spend our time? 

Will there be animals in heaven? 

What kinds of work will we do? 

Using resources such as Heaven by Randy Alcorn, provide biblical answers 

to these often-asked questions. 




getting started—five "universal" questions 


Most people at some time in their life pause to reflect on the nature of the universe, 

questioning its origin, purpose, destiny, and their relationship to it. Their questions 

are often posed as Where did the universe come from? Why does it exist? What 

is my relationship to it? and What is its destiny? The way individuals answer 

these questions is greatly influenced by their culture and by previously developed 

presuppositions (i.e., God exists or God does not exist). For people holding a 

theistic worldview, the questions Why did God create the universe? and What is His 

relationship to it? would also be included. The answers to these questions about 

the universe consciously or unconsciously become part of a person's deeply-held 

framework of beliefs or worldview. 

325 

LESSON 15 

“For By Him All Things Were Created” Colossians 1:16 


Getting Started—Five “Universal” Questions 


 

Have students turn to Getting Started. Have them read the title. 


In Lessons 13 and 14, we explored answers to four questions people 

ask about themselves. What were those questions? 

As you learned in Lessons 13 and 14, most of us at 

some point in our lives ask four basic questions— 

Where did I come from? Who 

am I? Why am I here? and 

Where am I going? 

But these four are not the only 

questions we ask. Most of us 

also ask questions about the 

heavens and the earth, the 

universe where we live. We 

ask questions like these— 

Where did the universe come 

from? Why does it exist? What 

is God’s relationship with 

Carl Sagan, 1934 – 1996 

Topic 1 

the universe? What is my relationship with the 

universe? and Where is the universe going? As 

you can see, our questions 

about the universe are very 

similar to our questions about 

ourselves. 

In this lesson, we’ll explore 

the answers to these fi ve 

questions about the universe. 

And as we’ve done in previous 

lessons, we’ll search for the 

answers within the truths of 

God’s Word, the Bible. 

Where Did the Universe Come From? 


The Naturalist View: In 1980, a scientist named Carl 

Sagan wrote a book entitled Cosmos. In the opening 

pages, he wrote these words that have since become 

famous: “The cosmos is all there is or ever was or 

ever will be.” Think about these words. What do they 

show us about the author’s beliefs about God? If the 

author means that God does not exist, what cause 

might he suggest for the existence of the universe or 

cosmos? 

If you think about it, there are only two explanations for 

the existence of a universe without a Creator. The first 

explanation is that the universe came into existence 

by itself out of nothing. It just happened. But not even 

Carl Sagan believed this. Why not? Because such an 

325 


323



Now we're ready to explore five "universal" questions people ask 

about the universe. What do you think these questions are? 

325 

LESSON 15 



 

Have students read "Five 'Universal' Questions" (SWT p. 325). 

As you learned in Lessons 13 and 14, most of us at some point in our lives ask 

four basic questions—Where did I come from? Who am I? Why am I here? 

and Where am I going? 
















Carl Sagan, 1934 – 1996 

Topic 1 






ourselves. 

















cosmos? 


the existence of a universe without a Creator. The fi rst 




But these four are not the only questions we ask. Most of us also ask questions 

about the heavens and the earth, the universe where we 

live. We ask questions like these—Where did the universe 

come from? Why does it exist? What is God’s relationship 

with the universe? What is my relationship with the universe? 

and Where is the universe going? As you can see, 

our questions about the universe are very similar to our 

questions about ourselves. 


325 

In this lesson, we’ll explore the answers to these five questions about the 

universe. And as we’ve done in previous lessons, we’ll search for the answers 

within the truths of God’s Word, the Bible. 


When people ask "Where did the universe come from?" what two 

answers do you think are the most common? 

If someone believes God created the universe, what effect do you 

think this belief has on his or her answers to the other four questions? 

If someone believes God did not create the universe, what effect do 

you think this belief has on his or her answers to the other four questions? 

topic 1. Where did the universe come from? 


The biblical Christian worldview rests on the foundational doctrines of God and His 

creation. These doctrines are the beginning point for understanding the relationships 

that exist within and between the material and immaterial dimensions of reality. Life 

and the cosmos have meaning and purpose only in reference to a Creator. 

Through God's gracious self-revelation in nature (Psalm 19:1), in Scripture (Genesis 

1-2), and in the man Jesus Christ (John 1:1, 14, 18), God makes it clear to all humanity 

that the universe is, indeed, His handiwork. The created order came into existence 

out of nothing through the power of His spoken word (Psalm 33:9; Psalm 148:5). 

This Word that called all things into existence is Jesus Christ, Who was with God in 

the beginning and Who is God (John 1:1-3). Creation is the work of the triune God, 

involving Jesus (1 Corinthians 8:6; Colossians 1:16), the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:2; 



Job 33:4), and God the Father (Exodus 20:11; Malachi 2:10; Ephesians 3:9). 

God created the cosmos, but He is nevertheless separate from His creation. He 

is transcendent. God did not create what exists out of Himself or as an extension 

of His own essences. 1 He created by free choice out of nothing. There was no 

preexistent chaos or an orderly set of molecules waiting for God's command to 

organize themselves into created order. By creating out of nothing, God demonstrated 

absolute sovereignty and power over what He created. 


References 

1. David Burnett, Clash of Worldviews 

(Nashville, TN: Oliver 

Nelson, 1992), pp. 212-213. 



students' understanding. Have them read The Naturalist View (SWT pp. 325- 

326). 

 




famous: “The cosmos is all there is or ever was or ever 

will be.” Think about these words. What do they show 

us about the author’s beliefs about God? If the author 

Carl Sagan, 1934 – 1996 means that God does not exist, what cause might he 

suggest for the existence of the universe or cosmos? 

If you think about it, there are only two explanations for the existence of a 

universe without a Creator. The first explanation is that the universe came into 

existence by itself out of nothing. It just happened. But not even Carl Sagan 

believed this. Why not? Because such an explanation for the existence of the 

universe is unreasonable. It is impossible for nothing to create something. So 

if God did not create the universe, and if nothing or something that does not 

exist did not create it, how does it exist? For Carl Sagan and others, the only 

way to explain the origin or cause of the universe is this: The material that 

makes up the universe is not caused. It has always existed. It is eternal. This 

is the naturalist view. 


What do Carl Sagan's words "The cosmos is all there is or ever was 

or ever will be" say about his belief in God? 

What two explanations do naturalists offer for the origin of the universe? 

Which explanation do most naturalists reject? Why? 

Which explanation do most naturalists accept? Why? 

325 
















Lesson 15 

Carl Sagan, 1934 – 1996 

Topic 1 






ourselves. 










LESSON 15 











cosmos? 


the existence of a universe without a Creator. The first 




explanation for the existence of the universe is unreasonable. It is impossible for nothing to create 

something. So if God did not create the universe, and if nothing or something that does not exist did 

not create it, how does it exist? For Carl Sagan and others, the only way to explain the origin or cause 

of the universe is this: The material that makes up the universe is not caused. It has always existed. 

It is eternal. This is the naturalist view. 

The Biblical Christian View: The biblical 

Christian view of the existence of the 

universe, is, of course, quite different from 

the naturalist view. God revealed to us in 

Scripture that the universe is not eternal. 

Before it came into existence there was 

no eternal matter just waiting to suddenly 

come together and make a universe. The 

various materials that God used to make 

the universe were themselves created by 

Him. They were not eternally in existence 

just waiting for God to shape them into the 

heavens 

and the 

earth. God, through Jesus, created everything that exists. Absolutely 

nothing exists that was not made through Jesus, the Word. God revealed 

this truth to the apostle John, who wrote it down in his Gospel. 

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the 

Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came 

into being by Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that 

has come into being. John 1:1-3 NASB 

God also revealed this truth to the apostle Paul. In Paul’s letter to 

Christians living the city of Colossae, he explained that there was a 

time when only God existed. The universe did not exist until God created 

it through Jesus. The universe God created includes the physical 

things we can see and the nonphysical things that we cannot see 

such as angels. 

15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before 

anything was created and is supreme over all creation, 16 for through him 

God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made 

the things we can see and the things we can’t see––such as thrones, 

kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was 

created through him and for him. 17 He existed before anything else, 

and he holds all creation together. Colossians 1:15-17 NLT 

326 


325 

326 

 

Have students read The Biblical Christian View (SWT pp. 326-327). 

The Biblical Christian View: The biblical Christian view of the existence of the 

universe, is, of course, quite different from the naturalist view. God revealed to 

us in Scripture that the universe is not eternal. Before it came into existence 

there was no eternal matter just waiting to suddenly come together and make 


325



a universe. The various materials that God used 

to make the universe were themselves created by 

Him. They were not eternally in existence just waiting 

for God to shape them into the heavens and the 

earth. God, through Jesus, created everything that 

exists. Absolutely nothing exists that was not made 

through Jesus, the Word. God revealed this truth to 

the apostle John, who wrote it down in his Gospel. 

1 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, 

and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All 

things came into being by Him, and apart from Him nothing came 

into being that has come into being. John 1:1-3 NASB 

God also revealed this truth to the apostle Paul. In Paul's letter 

to Christians living the city of Colossae, he explained that there 

was a time when only God existed. The universe did not exist 

until God created it through Jesus. The universe God created 

includes the physical things we can see and the nonphysical 

things that we cannot see such as angels. 

15 



everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see 

and the things we can’t see––such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities 

in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. 17 He 

existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. 


327 


Now imagine for a minute that your teacher 

asks you to create an art project. He or she 

explains that you are to create a painting of 

your favorite animal. You are to paint it on art 

canvas and use oil paints of various colors. 

After you finish your painting, you are to frame 

it. Surprisingly, your teacher then announces 

that you must create your painting without 

making, purchasing, borrowing, or using any 

art supplies. In other words, you are to create 

your painting out of nothing. 

How would you respond to an assignment like 

this? Could you or anyone else in your class complete such an assignment? Of course not. Although 

human beings are capable of creating many beautiful things, we can create only by using materials 

God has already created. No one can create something out of nothing—no one, that is, except God. 

And that is exactly how He created the universe. All God had to do was give the command, and things 

came into being. 

If you look at the story of creation in Genesis 1, you will find the words “And God said” before every 

one of His creative acts. In other words, all God had to do to create was speak. Then, out of nothing, 

things came into existence—light, sky, land, plants, sun, moon, and stars, animals, and human beings. 

This truth was revealed to many writers of the Bible. Let’s look at how the writer of the New T e stament 

Book of Hebrews and one of the Old T e stament psalmists explain it. 

By faith we understand that the universe was 

formed at God’s command, so that what is seen 

was not made out of what was visible. 

Hebrews 11 :3 

Now imagine for a minute that your teacher asks you to create an art project. 

He or she explains that you are to create a painting of your favorite animal. You 

are to paint it on art canvas and use oil paints of various 

colors. After you finish your painting, you are to frame 

it. Surprisingly, your teacher then announces that you 

must create your painting without making, purchasing, 

borrowing, or using any art supplies. In other words, 

you are to create your painting out of nothing. 


6 By the word of the LORD 

were the heavens made, 

their starry host by the breath of his mouth. 

9 For he spoke, and it came to be; 

he commanded, and it stood firm. 

Psalms 33:6, 9 

327 

How would you respond to an assignment like this? Could you or anyone else 

in your class complete such an assignment? Of course not. Although human 

beings are capable of creating many beautiful things, we can create only by 

using materials God has already created. No one can create something out 

of nothing—no one, that is, except God. And that is exactly how He created 

the universe. All God had to do was give the command, and things came into 

being. 

If you look at the story of creation in Genesis 1, you will find the words “And God 

said” before every one of His creative acts. In other words, all God had to do to 

create was speak. Then, out of nothing, things came into existence—the earth, 

light, sky, and the sun, moon, and stars. At His command the land produced 

plants and living creatures, the waters filled with creatures of the deep, and the 




air filled with birds. And finally God spoke and formed Adam from the dust of 

the earth and Eve from Adam's rib. This truth was revealed to many writers of 

the Bible. Let’s look at how the writer of the New Testament Book of Hebrews 

and one of the Old Testament psalmists explain it. 


By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so 

that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Hebrews 11:3 

6 

By the word of the LORD 

were the heavens made, 

their starry host by the breath of his mouth. 

9 

For he spoke, and it came to be; 

he commanded, and it stood firm. 

Psalms 33:6, 9 


 

How does the biblical Christian view of the origin of the universe differ 

from the naturalist view? 

How does the biblical Christian view of matter or the material that 

makes up the universe differ from the naturalist view? 

Through Whom did God create the universe? 

What things in the universe came into existence without Jesus creating 

them? 

What is Jesus called in John's Gospel? 

What is Jesus called in the apostle Paul's letter to Christians in Colossae? 

What did God create through Jesus that we can see? What did He 

create that we can't see? 

What do you need in order to create something? 

What did God need in order to create the universe? 

How did God create something out of nothing? 

Why can God create out of nothing? 

Although the creation itself is evidence that a Creator exists and 

Scripture tells us God is the Creator, can we prove in a scientific 

experiment that God exists and that He created the universe out of 

nothing? Why not? 

What do we have to have in order to understand that God created 

the universe out of nothing, just by speaking? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 15 Memory Verse 1, Colossians 1:15-16 NLT. 


15 



everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. . . . Colossians 1:15-16 NLT 

Lesson 15 

Lesson 15 Memory Verse 1 

15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was 

created and is supreme over all creation, 16 for through him God created everything 

in the heavenly realms and on earth. . . . Colossians 1:15-16 NLT 

328 

328 



327




Who is Jesus? 

How long has Jesus existed? 

What did God create through Jesus? 

What is Jesus' relationship to His creation? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Scripture Search (SWT pp. 

329-330) and Hiding God's Word (SWT pp. 331-332). If you prefer, create comprehension, 




topic 2. why did god create the universe? 


The universe, as a reflection of God's character, is not only orderly, but it also has 

purpose. God created it because it pleased Him to do so (Revelation 4:11). God 

created it for Himself (Colossians 1:16-17), and He created it to be His possession 

(Psalm 104:24). 

God chose to reveal His existence and nature through the creation of the universe. 

Specifically, the creation reveals His eternal power and divinity (Romans 1:20), and 

the magnificence of the heavens reveals His glory (Psalm 19:1). 

The universe exists to reveal God's goodness (Genesis 1:31; 1 Timothy 4:4). His 

goodness is revealed in each act of creation (Genesis 1). It is revealed in the 

beauty of the earth. And it is revealed in His faithful sustaining and ordering of the 

seasons with their rains and harvest, providing food to both pagans and believers 

alike (Acts 14:15-17). 

333 


Topic 2 

Why Did God Create the Universe? 

God Created the Universe Because It Pleased Him. Think about something you’ve created or built. 

Maybe you built a fort in your backyard or constructed a model car or airplane. Maybe you created 

a beautiful Mother’s Day card or baked a batch of cookies for someone. Now ask yourself this question: 

Why did I do it? Did I create, build, or make something because I had to? Probably you created, 

built, or made something simply because you wanted to do it. 

You were pleased to create something either for yourself or for 

someone else to enjoy. 

Now think back to one of the questions you answered in Lesson 

14—Why am I here? or Why did God create me? Y o u learned 

that God did not create you because He needed you or because 

He was lonely. He created you because He wanted to. Y o u’re 

here because God was pleased to create you so He could adopt 

you into His family as His child. Read again the apostle Paul’s 

words to the Christians in Ephesus. 

4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us 

in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. 5 God decided 

in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to 

himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and 

it gave him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:4-5 NLT 

Now extend your question about why God created you to why 

He created the universe. If God created you because He wanted 

to and was pleased to do so, why do you think He created the 

universe? God also created the universe because He wanted to. He created it because it pleased Him 

to do so. God revealed this truth to the apostle John through a vision of heaven. In the vision, John 

saw God’s servants worshiping Him with 

words of praise for what He had done. 

“You are worthy, O Lord our God, 



and they exist because you created what 

you pleased.” 



333 

God created the universe as the stage for fulfilling His eternal plan for His imagebearers. 

Not only did He create it to be our home before and after the fall, but He 

also created it to be our new home at the return of Christ (Revelation 21:1-3). In 

our renewed and glorified bodies, we will rule and reign with Christ on the new 

earth. The new earth will be the home of the New Jerusalem where God Himself 

will dwell with us. 


 


students' understanding. Have them read God Created the Universe Because 

It Pleased Him (SWT pp. 333-334). 

God Created the Universe Because It Pleased Him. Think about something 

you’ve created or built. Maybe you built a fort in your backyard or constructed 

a model car or airplane. Maybe you created a beautiful Mother’s Day card or 



baked a batch of cookies for someone. Now ask yourself 

these questions: Why did I do it? Did I create, build, or make 

something because I had to? Probably you created, built, or 

made something simply because you wanted to do it. You 

were pleased to create something either for yourself or for 



14—Why am I here? or Why did God create me? You 

learned that God did not create you because He needed you or because He 

was lonely. He created you because He wanted to. You’re here because God 

was pleased to create you so He could adopt you into His family as His child. 

Read again the apostle Paul’s words to the Christians in Ephesus. 


333 


Topic 2 

Why Did God Create the Universe? 

God Created the Universe Because It Pleased Him. Think about something you’ve created or built. 

Maybe you built a fort in your backyard or constructed a model car or airplane. Maybe you created 

a beautiful Mother’s Day card or baked a batch of cookies for someone. Now ask yourself this question: 

Why did I do it? Did I create, build, or make something because I had to? Probably you created, 

built, or made something simply because you wanted to do it. 

You were pleased to create something either for yourself or for 



14—Why am I here? or Why did God create me? Y o u learned 

that God did not create you because He needed you or because 

He was lonely. He created you because He wanted to. Y o u’re 

here because God was pleased to create you so He could adopt 

you into His family as His child. Read again the apostle Paul’s 

words to the Christians in Ephesus. 

4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us 

in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. 5 God decided 

in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to 

himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and 

it gave him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:4-5 NLT 

Now extend your question about why God created you to why 

He created the universe. If God created you because He wanted 

to and was pleased to do so, why do you think He created the 

universe? God also created the universe because He wanted to. He created it because it pleased Him 

to do so. God revealed this truth to the apostle John through a vision of heaven. In the vision, John 

saw God’s servants worshiping Him with 

words of praise for what He had done. 




and they exist because you created what 

you pleased.” 



333 

4 

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy 

and without fault in his eyes. 5 God decided in advance to adopt us into his own 

family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted 

to do, and it gave him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:4-5 NLT 

Now extend your question about why God created you to why He created the 

universe. If God created you because He wanted to and was pleased to do 

so, why do you think He created the universe? God also created the universe 

because He wanted to. He created it because it pleased Him to do so. God 

revealed this truth to the apostle John through a vision of heaven. In the vision, 

John saw God’s servants worshiping Him with words of praise for what 

He had done. 




and they exist because you created 

what you pleased.” 


The words “what you pleased” mean that God chose to create the things He 

created. He wanted or willed to create them. Creating what He wanted to create 

gave God great pleasure. 


What kinds of things have you created? Why did you create them? 

Why did God create us as His image-bearers? 

In John's vision of heaven, he heard God's servants declare one of 

the reasons God created all things. What is that reason? 

Have students read God Created the Universe for Himself (SWT pp.334-335). 

Lesson 15 

The words “what you pleased” mean that God chose to create the things He created. He wanted or 

willed to create them. Creating what He wanted to create gave God great pleasure. 

God Created the Universe for Himself. Think 

again about something you’ve created or made. 

After you created it, to whom did it belong? It 

belonged to you. It was yours to enjoy, even if 

you created it to give as a gift to someone else. 

It was your creation, and you had the freedom 

to do with it as you chose. 

When God created the universe, He made it to 

be His own possession. One of the psalmists 

wrote about this truth. 

O LORD, how many are Your works! 

In wisdom You have made them all; 

The earth is full of Your possessions. 

Psalm 104:24 NASB 

The psalmist explains that God had a purpose 

in creating the universe. He didn’t create it and 

then forget about it. He made it to enjoy. He made it because it was always His plan to create everything 

for Himself. He revealed this truth to the apostle Paul, who wrote about it in a letter to Christians 

in the city of Colossae. 

. . . All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16 NKJV 

The Old T e stament writers also understood that everything in creation belonged to God. See how many 

possessions you can identify in the following Scriptures from Psalms, Exodus, Haggai, and Ezekiel. 

334 

 

God Created the Universe for Himself. Think again about something you’ve 

created or made. After you created it, to whom did it belong? It belonged to you. 

It was yours to enjoy, even if you created it to give as a gift to someone else. It 

was your creation, and you had the freedom to do with it as you chose. 

334 

The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it . . .. Psalm 24:1 

“‘. . . the whole earth is mine . . ..’” Exodus 19:5 

The heavens are yours . . .. Psalm 89:11 

Both the day and the night are yours. 

You made the sun and the moon. 


“‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty.” Haggai 2:8 



329



When God created the universe, He made it to be His 

own possession. One of the psalmists wrote about 

this truth. 

O LORD, how many are Your works! 

In wisdom You have made them all; 

The earth is full of Your possessions. 


The psalmist explains that God had a purpose in creating the universe. He didn’t 

create it and then forget about it. He made it to enjoy. He made it because it 

was always His plan to create everything for Himself. He revealed this truth 

to the apostle Paul, who wrote about it in a letter to Christians in the city of 

Colossae. 

. . . All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16 NKJV 

The Old Testament writers also understood that everything in creation belonged 

to God. See how many possessions you can identify in the following Scriptures 

from Psalms, Exodus, Haggai, and Ezekiel. 

The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it . . .. Psalm 24:1 

“‘. . . the whole earth is mine . . ..’” Exodus 19:5 

The heavens are yours . . .. Psalm 89:11 

Both the day and the night are yours. 

You made the sun and the moon. 


“‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty.” 

Haggai 2:8 

335 


10 “. . . every animal of the forest is mine, 

and the cattle on a thousand hills. 

11 I know every bird in the mountains, 

and the creatures of the field are mine. 

12 If I were hungry I would not tell you, 

for the world is mine, and all that is in it.” 

Psalm 50:10-12 

“For every living soul belongs to me . . ..” 

Ezekiel 18:4 

As you can see from these Scriptures, there is 

nothing God does not own. Even the day and 

night are His because He created and owns the 

sun and the moon. 

God did not create everything as His own possession because He is selfish. As you already know, 

He created the universe to share with and be enjoyed by His image-bearers. We’ll look at this truth 

in just a moment. 

God Created the Universe to Reveal His Existence and to Show Us What He Is Like. You learned 

in Lesson 11 that everything that exists or happens has a cause—everything, that is, except God. 

Just as every watch, computer, or cell phone could not exist without a designer and maker, neither 

could the universe exist without God. He is its designer and maker, and the universe clearly reveals 

His existence. 

Creation not only reveals that God exists, it also shows us His 

divine nature. This means it shows us things about Him that 

make Him God. Although God is invisible, creation reveals that 

He is omnipotent or all-powerful. Creation also reveals that God 

is eternal. The apostle Paul recorded this truth in his letter to 

Christians in the Italian city of Rome. 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his 

eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being 

understood from what has been made . . .. Romans 1:20 

King David understood that the creation reveals God’s existence 

and divine nature. Like the apostle Paul, David understood 

that without saying one word, the creation shows us God’s 

glory—His perfect excellence, majesty, honor, and greatness 

that cannot be compared to anything else. Let’s look at how 

David explained this truth in one of his psalms. 


335 

10 

“. . . every animal of the forest is mine, 


11 

I know every bird in the mountains, 

and the creatures of the field are mine. 

12 

If I were hungry I would not tell you, 


Psalm 50:10-12 

“For every living soul belongs to me . . ..” Ezekiel 18:4 

As you can see from these Scriptures, there is nothing God does not own. 

Even the day and night are His because He created and owns the sun and 

the moon. 

God did not create everything as His own possession because He is selfish. 

As you already know, He created the universe to share with and be enjoyed by 

His image-bearers. We’ll look at this truth in just a moment. 





Have you ever created something for yourself? What did you create? 

Were you selfish in creating something as your own? Why not? 

Why did God create the universe? 

What things in creation belong to God? 

Although all things belong to God, what evidence do you see or 

know about that reveals God is not a selfish Creator? 

Have students read God Created the Universe to Reveal His Existence and to 

Show Us What He Is Like (SWT pp. 335-337). 

 

God Created the Universe to Reveal His Existence and to Show Us What 

He Is Like. You learned in Lesson 11 that everything that exists or happens 

has a cause—everything, that is, except God. Just as every watch, computer, 

or cell phone could not exist without a designer and maker, neither could the 

universe exist without God. He is its designer and maker, and the universe 

clearly reveals His existence. 

335 

10 “. . . every animal of the forest is mine, 


11 I know every bird in the mountains, 

and the creatures of the fi eld are mine. 

12 If I were hungry I would not tell you, 


Psalm 50:10-12 

“For every living soul belongs to me . . ..” 

Ezekiel 18:4 


As you can see from these Scriptures, there is 

nothing God does not own. Even the day and 

night are His because He created and owns the 

sun and the moon. 

God did not create everything as His own possession because He is selfish. As you already know, 

He created the universe to share with and be enjoyed by His image-bearers. We’ll look at this truth 

in just a moment. 



make Him God. Although God is invisible, creation reveals 

that He is omnipotent or all-powerful. Creation also reveals 

that God is eternal. The apostle Paul recorded this truth in 

his letter to Christians in the Italian city of Rome. 

God Created the Universe to Reveal His Existence and to Show Us What He Is Like. You learned 

in Lesson 11 that everything that exists or happens has a cause—everything, that is, except God. 

Just as every watch, computer, or cell phone could not exist without a designer and maker, neither 

could the universe exist without God. He is its designer and maker, and the universe clearly reveals 

His existence. 



make Him God. Although God is invisible, creation reveals that 

He is omnipotent or all-powerful. Creation also reveals that God 

is eternal. The apostle Paul recorded this truth in his letter to 

Christians in the Italian city of Rome. 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his 

eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being 

understood from what has been made . . .. Romans 1:20 

King David understood that the creation reveals God’s existence 

and divine nature. Like the apostle Paul, David understood 

that without saying one word, the creation shows us God’s 

glory—His perfect excellence, majesty, honor, and greatness 

that cannot be compared to anything else. Let’s look at how 

David explained this truth in one of his psalms. 


335 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities— 

his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, 

being understood from what has been made . . .. 

Romans 1:20 

King David understood that the creation reveals God’s existence and divine 

nature. Like the apostle Paul, David understood that without saying one word, 

the creation shows us God’s glory—His perfect excellence, majesty, honor, and 

greatness that cannot be compared to anything else. Let’s look at how David 

explained this truth in one of his psalms. 

1 

The heavens declare the glory of God; 

the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 

2 

Day after day they pour forth speech; 

night after night they display knowledge. 

3 

There is no speech or language 

where their voice is not heard. 

4 

Their voice goes out into all the earth, 

their words to the ends of the world. 

Psalm 19:1-4 

Creation not only shows us God’s glory and power, it also shows us His goodness. 

God could not make or do anything that is not good, for to do so would 

contradict His nature. Moses wrote about the goodness of God’s creation in 

the Book of Genesis. 

Lesson 15 

1 The heavens declare the glory of God; 


2 Day after day they pour forth speech; 


3 There is no speech or language 


4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, 


Psalm 19:1-4 

Creation not only shows us God’s glory and power, it also shows 

us His goodness. God could not make or do anything that is not 

good, for to do so would contradict His nature. Moses wrote about 

the goodness of God’s creation in the Book of Genesis. 

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there 

was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. 

Genesis 1:31 

The fact that the earth did not remain in perfect harmony after the fall does not change the truth that 

what God created is good. We see beauty in God’s creation. We see its order. We see the changing 

seasons. We enjoy what nature provides for us each day. All these things are from God and are good. 

The apostle Paul reminded Timothy, a young pastor of the early church, of this truth. Paul wrote, “For 

everything God created is good . . ..” (1 Timothy 4:4). 

Creation not only shows us God’s goodness, it also shows us 

His kindness. Although creation belongs to God, He made the 

earth as the home for His image-bearers. Every day the earth 

reveals God’s kindness as it provides us with seasons, rains, 

and crops. In providing for our physical needs, God blesses us 

with the joy of having plenty to eat. God provides these blessings 

even for those who do not know Him. He does this so all 

people can know He exists and that He is a kind and good 

God. During an early mission trip, the apostle Paul spoke to 

non-Christians in the city of Lystra who did not know the only 

true and living God. Luke recorded Paul’s words in the New 

T e stament Book of Acts. 

336 


336 


331



Lesson 15 

337 


1 The heavens declare the glory of God; 


2 Day after day they pour forth speech; 


3 There is no speech or language 


4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, 


15 “. . . We are bringing you good news, telling you 

to turn from these worthless things to the living 

God, who made heaven and earth and sea and 

everything in them. 16 In the past, he let all nations 

go their own way. 17 Y e t he has not left himself 

without testimony: He has shown kindness by 

giving you rain from heaven and crops in their 

seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and 

fills your hearts with joy.” Acts 14:15-17 


God Created the Earth to Be the Home for 

His Image-Bearers. Although God created the 

universe as His own possession, He created 

the earth for His image-bearers. This doesn’t 

mean that God doesn’t own the earth—He owns all of creation. Rather, it means that He created the 

earth to be our home. And He gave us the responsibility to care for it and rule over it for Him as His 

stewards. 

The highest heavens belong to the LORD, 

but the earth he has given to man. 

Psalm 11 5:16 


Psalm 19:1-4 

Creation not only shows us God’s glory and power, it also shows 

us His goodness. God could not make or do anything that is not 

good, for to do so would contradict His nature. Moses wrote about 

the goodness of God’s creation in the Book of Genesis. 

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there 

was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. 

Genesis 1:31 

The fact that the earth did not remain in perfect harmony after the fall does not change the truth that 

what God created is good. We see beauty in God’s creation. We see its order. We see the changing 

seasons. We enjoy what nature provides for us each day. All these things are from God and are good. 

The apostle Paul reminded Timothy, a young pastor of the early church, of this truth. Paul wrote, “For 

everything God created is good . . ..” (1 Timothy 4:4). 

Creation not only shows us God’s goodness, it also shows us 

His kindness. Although creation belongs to God, He made the 

earth as the home for His image-bearers. Every day the earth 

reveals God’s kindness as it provides us with seasons, rains, 

and crops. In providing for our physical needs, God blesses us 

with the joy of having plenty to eat. God provides these blessings 

even for those who do not know Him. He does this so all 

people can know He exists and that He is a kind and good 

God. During an early mission trip, the apostle Paul spoke to 

non-Christians in the city of Lystra who did not know the only 

true and living God. Luke recorded Paul’s words in the New 

T e stament Book of Acts. 

336 


God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase 

in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fi sh of 

the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature 

that moves on the ground.” Genesis 1:28 

Although this present earth was cursed by God because of 

the fall, a day is coming when He will make a new heavens 

and a new earth. This new earth will also be our home. God 

will create it for all people who repent of their sins and believe 

in Jesus as God’s Son and their Savior. This new earth and 

the people who live on it will never grow old, wear out, or die. 

And best of all, God Himself will live there with us. 

God revealed these truths about our new home to the apostles 

Peter and John. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth 

he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness. 

2 Peter 3:13 NLT 

336 

337 

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, 

and there was morning—the sixth day. Genesis 1:31 

The fact that the earth did not remain in perfect harmony after the fall does not 

change the truth that what God created is good. We see beauty in God’s creation. 

We see its order. We see the changing seasons. We enjoy what nature provides 

for us each day. All these things are from God and are good. The apostle Paul 

reminded Timothy, a young pastor of the early church, of this truth. Paul wrote, 

“For everything God created is good . . ..” (1 Timothy 4:4). 

Creation not only shows us God’s goodness, it also shows 

us His kindness. Although creation belongs to God, He made 

the earth as the home for His image-bearers. Every day the 

earth reveals God’s kindness as it provides us with seasons, 

rains, and crops. In providing for our physical needs, God 

blesses us with the joy of having plenty to eat. God provides 

these blessings even for those who do not know Him. He 

does this so all people can know He exists and that He is a 

kind and good God. During an early mission trip, the apostle 

Paul spoke to non-Christians in the city of Lystra who did 

not know the only true and living God. Luke recorded Paul’s words in the New 

Testament Book of Acts. 

15 

“. . . We are bringing you good news, telling you to 

turn from these worthless things to the living God, who 

made heaven and earth and sea and everything in 

them. 16 In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 

17 

Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has 

shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and 

crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of 

food and fills your hearts with joy.” Acts 14:15-17 


What does God want His image-bearers to see and know about Him 

from His creation of the universe? 

What does the creation reveal to you about God's existence? 

What does the creation reveal to you about God's nature? 

What do the heavens declare about God? How? 

What is God's glory? 

What did God see and say about each part of His creation? (It was 

good.) 

What did God see and say about the whole creation? (It was very 

good.) 

How does God's creation reveal His goodness and kindness to us? 

Have students read God Created the Earth to Be the Home for His Image- 

Bearers (SWT pp. 337-338). 




God Created the Earth to Be the Home for His Image-Bearers. Although 

 


God created the universe as His own possession, He created the earth for His 337 

15 “. . . We are bringing you good news, telling you 

image-bearers. This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t own the earth—He owns 

to turn from these worthless things to the living 

God, who made heaven and earth and sea and 

everything in them. 

all of creation. Rather, it means that He created the earth to be our home. 

16 In the past, he let all nations 

go their own way. 17 Y e t he has not left himself 

without testimony: He has shown kindness by 

giving you rain from heaven and crops in their 

seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and 

fi lls your hearts with joy.” Acts 14:15-17 

And He gave us the responsibility to care for it and rule over it for Him as His 

God Created the Earth to Be the Home for 

His Image-Bearers. Although God created the 

stewards. 

universe as His own possession, He created 



Psalm 115:16 


in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of 





and a new earth. This new earth will also be our home. God will create it for all 

people who repent of their sins and believe in Jesus as God’s Son and their 

Savior. This new earth and the people who live on it will never grow old, wear 

out, or die. And best of all, God Himself will live there with us. 

God revealed these truths about our new home to the apostles Peter and 

John. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, 

a world filled with God’s righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 NLT 


the earth for His image-bearers. This doesn’t 

mean that God doesn’t own the earth—He owns all of creation. Rather, it means that He created the 

earth to be our home. And He gave us the responsibility to care for it and rule over it for Him as His 

stewards. 



Psalm 11 5:16 



in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of 





and a new earth. This new earth will also be our home. God 

will create it for all people who repent of their sins and believe 

in Jesus as God’s Son and their Savior. This new earth and 

the people who live on it will never grow old, wear out, or die. 

And best of all, God Himself will live there with us. 

God revealed these truths about our new home to the apostles 

Peter and John. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth 

he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness. 

2 Peter 3:13 NLT 

337 

1 


earth had passed away, and there was no longer any 

sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming 

down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride 

beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a 

loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling 

of God is with men, and he will live with them. They 

will be his people, and God himself will be with them 

and be their God. Revelation 21:1-3 

Lesson 15 

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, 

and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven 

from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from 

the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his 

people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. Revelation 21:1-3 





and they exist because you created what you pleased.” 


338 


Although God owns all of creation, what part of it has He given to His 

image-bearers? 

Why did God create the earth and give it to us? 

Does this mean we own the earth? Why not? 

What is our responsibility as stewards of God's earth? 

What is God's plan for the earth in the future? 

What purpose will the new earth have in the future? How long will it 

exist? 

338 



333



338 

Lesson 15 

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, 

and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven 

from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from 

the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his 

people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. Revelation 21:1-3 

 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 15 Memory Verse 2, Revelation 4:11 NLT. 


"You are worthy, O Lord our God, 



and they exist because you created what you pleased." 







and they exist because you created what you pleased.” 


What is God worthy to receive? Why? 

Why do all things in the universe exist? 

338 



pp. 339-340) and Hiding God's Word (SWT pp. 341-342). If you prefer, create 

comprehension, application, and enrichment activities of your own. 



topic 3. What is god's relationship to the Universe? 


References 

1. Francis Schaeffer, "He Is 

There and He Is Not Silent," in 

The Complete Works of Francis 

A. Schaeffer, A Christian 

Worldview, vol. 1. (Westchester, 

IL: Crossway Books, 1982), 

p. 276. 

2. Francis Schaeffer, "The 

Church Before the Waiting 

World," in The Complete Works 

of Francis A. Schaeffer, A 

Christian Worldview, vol. 4. 

(Westchester, IL: Crossway 

Books, 1982), p. 119. 

3. James Sire, The Universe 

Next Door. (Downers Grove, IL: 

William B. Eerdmans Publishing 

Co., 1988), p. 42. 

The deistic worldview describes God as the absent landlord of His creation. In 

contrast, biblical Christianity affirms that the God who created the cosmos continues 

His relationship with it and His control over it. In the words of Francis Schaeffer, “He 

is there, and He is not a silent nor far-off God.” 1 The Creator God Who is faithful, 

orderly, and purposeful remains in charge of His creation (Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 

104:5). The creation remains subject to the Creator on Whom it depends for its 

existence (Acts 17:28). Specifically, it is sustained and held together through the 

powerful word of Christ, the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15-17; 

Hebrews 1:3). 

The things God created do not exist in chaos, but rather in order under His control. 

Through His word and through the natural laws that operate predictably in response 

to His word, God faithfully sustains every dimension of His creation. He endows it 

with meaning, renders it intelligible, and assures us of His commitment to faithfully 

sustain it (Psalm 119:89-91). God’s design and promise make it possible for us to 

carry out the cultural mandate, although we do so imperfectly. His faithfulness helps 

us plan and order many dimensions of our lives as we knowingly or unknowingly 

rely on His natural laws that ensure the continuation of “seed time and harvest, cold 

and heat, summer and winter, day and night” (Genesis 8:22). 

Although the universe is subject to natural laws, it is not a “closed system.” This 

means it is not programmed beyond the control of its “Programmer.” Rather, it is 

an open system in which God sovereignly controls the cause-and-effect flow of 

history outside the natural laws He created. 2 His control is usually referred to as 



miraculous. It involves the processes God uses to direct His creation toward the 

fulfillment of His purposes (2 Peter 3:13). These processes constitute the history 

of creation that Sire describes as "the divine purposes of God in concrete form." 3 

Because these processes and purposes are ordained by God, history has meaning, 

and in its meaning lies hope rather than despair. 




students' understanding. Have them read God Sustains the Universe (SWT p. 

343). 

 

God Sustains the Universe. Since God created the 

343 

universe, He has never abandoned it. He didn’t create it 

with a battery to keep it going until it runs down. No, God 

created the universe by the power of His word and sustains 

it (keeps it going) by His word. Carl Sagan and naturalists 

like him believe the universe keeps itself going. But God 

tells us that His Son Jesus is the One Who sustains it. God 

revealed this truth to the apostle Paul, who wrote about it to the Colossians. 

[Jesus] existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. 


God also revealed this truth to the writer of the New Testament Book of Hebrews. 

The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, 

and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. . . . 

Hebrews 1:3 NLT 

What does Scripture mean when it says that God “holds . . . together” or “sustains” 

everything by His commands? It means that God keeps everything in the 

universe running. By His powerful commands, God created laws by which the 

universe must operate. These laws operate continuously and allow us to go 

about our daily lives without worrying about whether the universe will suddenly 

fall apart. As scientists discover and understand how God’s laws work, they are 

able to design rockets and satellites and space stations and launch them into 

orbit around the earth. As engineers understand how God’s laws work, they 

are able to design sturdy buildings and bridges, computers, and all kinds of 

telecommunications devices. And as biologists and medical researchers discover 

and understand how God’s laws work, they are able to fight diseases and 

save lives. None of these discoveries would be possible 

if God did not sustain the universe in an orderly way by 

the laws He created. 

Although we can depend on God’s laws to operate day 

by day, it is also important to understand that He did not 

create laws and then abandon the universe to run by 

them on its own. God is involved in His creation, and if 

Topic 3 

What Is God‛s Relationship to the Universe? 

God Sustains the Universe. Since God created the universe, He has never abandoned it. He didn’t create 

it with a battery to keep it going until it runs down. No, God created the universe by the power of His 

word and sustains it (keeps it going) by His word. Carl Sagan and naturalists like him believe the universe 

keeps itself going. But God tells us that His Son Jesus , 

is the One Who sustains it. God revealed this truth to the 

apostle Paul, who wrote about it to the Colossians. 

[Jesus] existed before anything else, and he holds all 

creation together. Colossians 1:17 NLT 

God also revealed this truth to the writer of the New 

T e stament Book of Hebrews. 

The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the 

very character of God, and he sustains everything by 

the mighty power of his command. . . . Hebrews 1:3 NLT 

What does Scripture mean when it says that God “holds 

. . . together” or “sustains” everything by His commands? 

It means that God keeps everything in the universe running. By His powerful commands, God created 

laws by which the universe must operate. These laws operate continuously and allow us to go about our 

daily lives without worrying about whether the universe will suddenly fall apart. As scientists discover 

and understand how God’s laws work, they are able to design rockets and satellites and space stations 

and launch them into orbit around the earth. As 

engineers understand how God’s laws work, they are 

able to design sturdy buildings and bridges, computers, 

and all kinds of telecommunications devices. And 

as biologists and medical researchers discover and 

understand how God’s laws work, they are able to fight 

diseases and save lives. None of these discoveries 

would be possible if God did not sustain the universe 

in an orderly way by the laws He created. 

Although we can depend on God’s laws to operate day 

by day, it is also important to understand that He did 

not create laws and then abandon the universe to run 

by them on its own. God is involved in His creation, 

and if it were not for His powerful word, nothing in 

the cosmos would hold together. God is the one Who 

sustains the universe each second of every day. 



343 


335




it were not for His powerful word, nothing in the cosmos would hold together. 

God is the one Who sustains the universe every second of every day. 


How do naturalists believe the universe operates and is held together? 

Why do they have to believe this? 

How does the biblical Christian view of the continuation of the universe 

differ from the naturalist view? 

What does Scripture mean when it says that Jesus "sustains everything"? 

How does Jesus sustain the universe? 

What did God create that the universe must obey? 

What is an example of one of God's laws of creation? 

What kinds of things do we not have to worry about each day because 

of God's laws for the universe? 

What do God's laws that sustain the universe allow us to do as stewards 

of His creation? 

Some people believe God created the universe, set its laws in motion, 

and then abandoned it to run on its own. How does this belief 

differ from the biblical view of God's relationship to creation? 

Do you think God controls His laws or do God's laws for creation 

control Him? Why? 

Have students read God's Laws Do Not Control Him (SWT p. 344). 

Lesson 15 

God’s Laws Do Not Control Him. It is important to understand that God is not limited by the laws He 

created. God can interrupt a law if He desires. Or He can create a special law to bring about a change 

in order to accomplish His plan for creation. Actions by God that are outside of His laws of nature are 

called miracles. Let’s look at an example in Scripture. On the day Jesus was crucifi ed, God performed 

miracles in the heavens and on the earth. The apostle Matthew wrote about these miracles in his New 

T e stament Gospel. When God performed these miracles, He revealed clearly that He exists and that 

Jesus is God the Son! 

33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). 34 There they offered 

Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucifi ed 

him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 

45 From the sixth hour [noon] until the ninth hour [3 P.M.] darkness came over all the land. 

46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 

“Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?”—which means, “My God, 

my God, why have you forsaken me?” 

47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, 

“He’s calling Elijah.” 

48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He fi lled 

it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus 

to drink. 49 The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see 

if Elijah comes to save him.” 

50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he 

gave up his spirit. 

51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two 

from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. 

52 The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy 

people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out 

of the tombs, and after Jesus’ resurrection they went into 

the holy city and appeared to many people. 

54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding 

Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, 

they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son 

of God!” Matthew 27:33-36, 45-54 

344 


344 

 

God’s Laws Do Not Control Him. It is important to understand that God is 

not limited by the laws He created. God can interrupt a law if He desires. Or 

He can create a special law to bring about a change in order to accomplish 

His plan for creation. Actions by God that are outside of His laws of nature are 

called miracles. Let’s look at an example in Scripture. On the day Jesus was 

crucified, God performed miracles in the heavens and on the earth. The apostle 

Matthew wrote about these miracles in his New Testament Gospel. When God 

performed these miracles, He revealed clearly that He exists and that Jesus 

is God the Son! 

33 

They came to a place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). 

34 

There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he 

refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes 

by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 

45 

From the sixth hour [noon] until the ninth hour [3 p.m.] darkness came over 

all the land. 

46 

About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama 

sabachthani?”—which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken 

me?” 



47 

When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.” 


48 

Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, 

put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, “Now leave him 

alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.” 

50 

And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he 

gave up his spirit. 


51 

At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two 

from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. 

52 

The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy 

people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out 

of the tombs, and after Jesus’ resurrection they went into 

the holy city and appeared to many people. 

54 

When the centurion and those with him who were guarding 

Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, 

they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son 

of God!” Matthew 27:33-36, 45-54 

What is God free to do about the laws He created for the universe? 

Why is God not limited or controlled by His laws? 

When God interrupts a law or perhaps creates a special law to bring 

about a change in nature, what do we call this action? 

Why do you think God does not continually interrupt the basic laws 

that sustain the universe? 

Why does God perform miracles from time to time? 

What miracles did God perform on the day Jesus was crucified? 

Why? 

Have students read God Sustains the Earth's Position in Space (SWT p. 345). 

 

God Sustains the Earth’s Position in Space. When astronauts 

travel to the moon or orbit the earth in a space shuttle, 

do you think they worry that the earth will have drifted off 

somewhere in space when it’s time to return home? While 

astronauts have many things to be concerned about on a 

space mission, they know that the earth will continue to 

orbit the sun just as it did on the day they left the earth’s 

atmosphere. Why? Because God has sustained the earth 

in space from the day He created it. Neither the astronauts nor we need to 

worry that planet Earth will unexpectedly hurtle out into space and disappear 

into a black hole. And just as God sustains the earth in its position, He also 

sustains the moon, the planets, the sun, and other stars in their positions. We 

don’t have to worry that the sun will one day move closer to the earth and burn 

it up or move farther away and allow the earth to freeze. 

345 









in space from the day He created it. Neither the astronauts 

nor we need to worry that planet Earth will unexpectedly 

hurtle out into space and disappear into a black hole. And 

just as God sustains the earth in its position, He also 

sustains the moon, the planets, the sun, and other stars 

in their positions. We don’t have to worry that the sun will 

one day move closer to the earth and burn it up or move 

farther away and allow the earth to freeze. 

Long before modern science discovered many of God’s laws about the universe, the Old T e stament 

writer Job and one of the psalmists wrote about them. 

He spreads out the northern skies over empty space; 

he suspends the earth over nothing. 

Job 26:7 

He set the earth on its foundations; 

it can never be moved. 

Psalm 104:5 

God Sustains the Earth’s Seasons. After God destroyed all the 

sinful people on earth except Noah and his family in the great 



fl ood, He made a promise to Noah. 

“As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, 

cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.” 

Genesis 8:22 NLT 

God’s promise to Noah is also a promise for us today. It means we 

don’t have to worry that one year we’ll have summer for growing 

our crops, and the next year we won’t. We don’t have to worry 

that day and night won’t occur regularly. We don’t have to worry 

that one year winter won’t come at all. And when the bitter cold 

days of winter seem unending, we can know for certain that the 

warm days of summer will come again. 

345 


337



Long before modern science discovered many of God’s laws about the universe, 

the Old Testament writer Job and one of the psalmists wrote about them. 





Job 26:7 

Psalm 104:5 


Why is space travel away from and back to the earth possible? 

Why do we not have to worry about the earth moving too close or too 

far away from the sun? 

Over what has God suspended the earth? 

What can move the earth from its foundations in space? 

345 










in space from the day He created it. Neither the astronauts 

nor we need to worry that planet Earth will unexpectedly 

hurtle out into space and disappear into a black hole. And 

just as God sustains the earth in its position, He also 

sustains the moon, the planets, the sun, and other stars 

in their positions. We don’t have to worry that the sun will 

one day move closer to the earth and burn it up or move 

farther away and allow the earth to freeze. 

Long before modern science discovered many of God’s laws about the universe, the Old T e stament 

writer Job and one of the psalmists wrote about them. 



Job 26:7 



Psalm 104:5 

God Sustains the Earth’s Seasons. After God destroyed all the 

sinful people on earth except Noah and his family in the great 

flood, He made a promise to Noah. 




God’s promise to Noah is also a promise for us today. It means we 

don’t have to worry that one year we’ll have summer for growing 

our crops, and the next year we won’t. We don’t have to worry 

that day and night won’t occur regularly. We don’t have to worry 

that one year winter won’t come at all. And when the bitter cold 

days of winter seem unending, we can know for certain that the 

warm days of summer will come again. 


345 

 

Have students read God Sustains the Earth's Seasons (SWT pp. 345-346). 

God Sustains the Earth’s Seasons. After God destroyed all 

the sinful people on earth except Noah and his family in the 

great flood, He made a promise to Noah. 




God’s promise to Noah is also a promise for us today. It means 

we don’t have to worry that one year we’ll have summer for growing our crops, 

and the next year we won’t. We don’t have to worry that day and night won’t 

occur regularly. We don’t have to worry that one year winter won’t come at all. 

And when the bitter cold days of winter seem unending, we can know for certain 

that the warm days of summer will come again. 

Lesson 15 

One of the psalmists described God’s control of the seasons 

using poetic language. As you read the psalm, underline the 

words that describe God’s actions in human terms. Which 

verses refer to winter? Which refer to spring? 

15 He sends his command to the earth; 

his word runs swiftly. 

16 He spreads the snow like wool 

346 

One of the psalmists described God’s control of the seasons using poetic language. 

As you read the psalm, underline the words that describe God’s actions 

in human terms. Which verses refer to winter? Which refer to spring? 

and scatters the frost like ashes. 

17 He hurls down hail like pebbles. 

Who can withstand his icy blast? 

18 He sends his word and melts them; 

he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow. 

Psalm 147:15-18 

God Sustains the Earth’s Land and Water Forms. 

Although most people never think about it, God controls all 

the earth’s land and water forms. He established the places 

for the continents of the earth, and He set the boundaries for the oceans, which they cannot cross. 

Even when a hurricane brings a tidal surge rushing over the land, we know that the water will eventually 

recede and return to the ocean. Why? Because God controls His creation. How? By His word and 

by the laws He established that the heavens and earth must obey. 

One of the psalmists described God control of the earth’s 

lands and oceans. 

6 You covered the earth with oceans. 

The water was above the mountains. 

7 But at your command, the water rushed away. 

When you gave your orders like thunder, 

it hurried away. 

8 The mountains rose. 

The valleys sank. 

The water went to the places you made for it. 

9 You set borders for the seas that they cannot cross. 

Psalm 104:6-9 ICB 

346 


15 

He sends his command to the earth; 


16 

He spreads the snow like wool 


17 

He hurls down hail like pebbles. 


18 

He sends his word and melts them; 

he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow. 

Psalm 147:15-18 





After the flood, what did God promise Noah He would always sustain? 

How does God's sustaining of the seasons and day and night help us 

plan our lives? 

What kinds of things in our personal and community lives are controlled 

by the seasons? 

What would life be like if the seasons were unpredictable? 

What would life be like if we could not know when day or night would 

come and how long they would last? 

Have students read God Sustains the Earth's Land and Water Forms (SWT p. 346). 

 

God Sustains the Earth’s Land and Water Forms. Although most people 

never think about it, God controls all the earth’s land and water forms. He established 

the places for the continents of the earth, and He set the boundaries 

for the oceans, which they cannot cross. Even when a hurricane brings a tidal 

surge rushing over the land, we know that the water will eventually recede and 

return to the ocean. Why? Because God controls His creation. How? By His 

word and by the laws He established that the heavens and earth must obey. 

One of the psalmists described God control of the earth’s lands and oceans. 

Lesson 15 

One of the psalmists described God’s control of the seasons 

using poetic language. As you read the psalm, underline the 

words that describe God’s actions in human terms. Which 

verses refer to winter? Which refer to spring? 

15 He sends his command to the earth; 


16 He spreads the snow like wool 


17 He hurls down hail like pebbles. 


18 He sends his word and melts them; 

he stirs up his breezes, and the waters fl ow. 

Psalm 147:15-18 

God Sustains the Earth’s Land and Water Forms. 

Although most people never think about it, God controls all 

the earth’s land and water forms. He established the places 

for the continents of the earth, and He set the boundaries for the oceans, which they cannot cross. 

Even when a hurricane brings a tidal surge rushing over the land, we know that the water will eventually 

recede and return to the ocean. Why? Because God controls His creation. How? By His word and 

by the laws He established that the heavens and earth must obey. 

One of the psalmists described God control of the earth’s 

lands and oceans. 

6 You covered the earth with oceans. 


7 But at your command, the water rushed away. 

When you gave your orders like thunder, 

it hurried away. 

8 The mountains rose. 

346 

6 

You covered the earth with oceans. 


7 

But at your command, the water rushed away. 

When you gave your orders like thunder, it hurried away. 

8 

The mountains rose. 



9 

You set borders for the seas that they cannot cross. 


346 



9 You set borders for the seas that they cannot cross. 




 

Why does God maintain the boundaries between the land and water 

forms on the earth? 

What would life on earth be like if these boundaries kept changing? 

What changes can natural disasters such as hurricanes bring to land 

forms? What changes can they not bring? Why? 

Have students read God Sustains the Earth's Plants (SWT p. 347). 

God Sustains the Earth’s Plants. Not only does 

God sustain the nonliving parts of the universe such as 

the earth, sun, moon, and stars, He also sustains all 

living things. He sustains the plants through His laws 

that require seeds to produce the same kind of plants 

from which they came. We know for certain that when 

we plant tomato seeds, only tomatoes, not peaches or corn, will grow. God 

347 


God Sustains the Earth’s Plants. Not only 

does God sustain the nonliving parts of the universe 

such as the earth, sun, moon, and stars, He also 

sustains all living things. He sustains the plants 

through His laws that require seeds to produce 

the same kind of plants from which they came. 

We know for certain that when we plant tomato 

seeds, only tomatoes, not peaches or corn, will 

grow. God revealed this law to Moses, who was 

careful to describe it in the Old T e stament Book 

of Genesis. 

11 Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear 

fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. 12 The land produced vegetation: 

plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their 

kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:11 -12 

After young plants sprout up from the soil, God sustains them 

by providing the rains they need to continue growing. King 

David wrote a psalm about God’s sustaining relationship to the 

plants. 

9 You care for the land and water it; 

you enrich it abundantly. 

The streams of God are filled with water 

to provide the people with grain, 

for so you have ordained it. 

10 You drench its furrows 

and level its ridges; 

you soften it with showers 

and bless its crops. 

11 You crown the year with your bounty, 

and your carts overflow with abundance. 

12 The grasslands of the desert overflow; 

the hills are clothed with gladness. 

Psalm 65:9-12 

Another psalmist also described God’s sustaining power for the earth’s plants. 

7 Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; 

make music to our God on the harp. 

8 He covers the sky with clouds; 

he supplies the earth with rain 

and makes grass grow on the hills. 

Psalm 147:7-8 


347 


339


347 



revealed this law to Moses, who was careful to describe it in the Old Testament 

Book of Genesis. 

God Sustains the Earth’s Plants. Not only 

does God sustain the nonliving parts of the universe 

such as the earth, sun, moon, and stars, He also 

sustains all living things. He sustains the plants 

through His laws that require seeds to produce 

the same kind of plants from which they came. 

We know for certain that when we plant tomato 

seeds, only tomatoes, not peaches or corn, will 

grow. God revealed this law to Moses, who was 

careful to describe it in the Old T e stament Book 

of Genesis. 

11 Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear 

fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. 12 The land produced vegetation: 

plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their 

kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:11 -12 

After young plants sprout up from the soil, God sustains them 

by providing the rains they need to continue growing. King 

David wrote a psalm about God’s sustaining relationship to the 

plants. 

9 You care for the land and water it; 





10 You drench its furrows 




11 You crown the year with your bounty, 


12 The grasslands of the desert overfl ow; 


Psalm 65:9-12 

Another psalmist also described God’s sustaining power for the earth’s plants. 

7 Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; 

11 

Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and 

trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” 

And it was so. 12 The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according 

to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And 

God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:11-12 

After young plants sprout up from the soil, God sustains them by providing the 

rains they need to continue growing. King David wrote a psalm about God’s 

sustaining relationship to the plants. 


8 He covers the sky with clouds; 




Psalm 147:7-8 

347 

9 

You care for the land and water it; 





10 

You drench its furrows 




11 

You crown the year with your bounty, 


12 

The grasslands of the desert overflow; 


Psalm 65:9-12 

Another psalmist also described God’s sustaining power for the earth’s 

plants. 

7 

Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; 


8 

He covers the sky with clouds; 



Psalm 147:7-8 

Lesson 15 

348 


God Sustains the Earth’s Animals. If God 

sustains the plant world, we would expect that He 

also sustains the animals. And that is exactly what 

He does. God created laws that require animals 

to reproduce only animals like themselves. Horses 

reproduce only horses, and hippos reproduce only 

hippos. God inspired Moses to include this law for 

animals in his description of creation. 

24 And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures 

according to their kinds: livestock, creatures 

that move along the ground, and wild animals, each 

according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the 

wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock 

according to their kinds, and all the creatures that 

move along the ground according to their kinds. 

And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:24-25 

After animals are born, God continues to sustain their lives. He provides not only their food, but also 

places for them to live. As you read the following Scriptures, see how many of the ways God sustains 

His creatures you can identify. 

What laws did God create in plants that sustain them? 

Why can we be certain that tomato seeds will produce only tomato 

plants and tomatoes? 

In what other ways does God sustain the plants of the earth? 

29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree 

that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all the 

birds of the air and all the creatures that move on the ground—everything that has the breath of life 

in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. Genesis 1:29-30 

10 He makes springs pour water into the ravines; 

it flows between the mountains. 

11 They give water to all the beasts of the fi eld; 

Have students read God Sustains the Earth's Animals (SWT pp. 348-349). 

348 

the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 

14 He makes grass grow for the cattle . . .. 

16 The trees of the LORD are well watered, 

the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. 

17 There the birds make their nests; 

the stork has its home in the pine trees. 

18 The high mountains belong to the wild goats; 

the crags are a refuge for the coneys. 

24 How many are your works, O LORD! 

In wisdom you made them all; 

the earth is full of your creatures. 


 

God Sustains the Earth’s Animals. If God sustains the plant world, we 

would expect that He also sustains the animals. And that is exactly what He 

does. God created laws that require animals to reproduce only animals like 

themselves. Horses reproduce only horses, and hippos reproduce only hippos. 



God inspired Moses to include this law for animals in 

his description of creation. 

24 

And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures 

according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move 

along the ground, and wild animals, each according to 

its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the wild animals 

according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures 

that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it 

was good. Genesis 1:24-25 


Lesson 15 

God Sustains the Earth’s Animals. If God 

sustains the plant world, we would expect that He 

also sustains the animals. And that is exactly what 

He does. God created laws that require animals 

to reproduce only animals like themselves. Horses 

reproduce only horses, and hippos reproduce only 

hippos. God inspired Moses to include this law for 

animals in his description of creation. 

24 And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures 

according to their kinds: livestock, creatures 

that move along the ground, and wild animals, each 

according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the 

wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock 

according to their kinds, and all the creatures that 

move along the ground according to their kinds. 

And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:24-25 

After animals are born, God continues to sustain their lives. He provides not only their food, but also 

places for them to live. As you read the following Scriptures, see how many of the ways God sustains 

His creatures you can identify. 

29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree 

that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all the 

birds of the air and all the creatures that move on the ground—everything that has the breath of life 

in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. Genesis 1:29-30 

10 He makes springs pour water into the ravines; 


11 They give water to all the beasts of the field; 

348 


After animals are born, God continues to sustain their lives. He provides not only 

their food, but also places for them to live. As you read the following Scriptures, 

see how many of the ways God sustains His creatures you can identify. 

29 

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on 

the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit 

with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the 

beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the 

creatures that move on the ground—everything that has 

the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” 

And it was so. Genesis 1:29-30 

348 

14 He makes grass grow for the cattle . . .. 

16 The trees of the LORD are well watered, 


17 There the birds make their nests; 


18 The high mountains belong to the wild goats; 


24 How many are your works, O LORD! 




10 

He makes springs pour water into the ravines; 


11 

They give water to all the beasts of the field; 


14 

He makes grass grow for the cattle . . .. 

16 

The trees of the LORD are well watered, 


17 

There the birds make their nests; 


18 

The high mountains belong to the wild goats; 


24 

How many are your works, O LORD! 



27 

These all look to you 

to give them their food at the proper time. 

28 

When you give it to them, 

they gather it up; 

when you open your hand, 

they are satisfied with good things. 

Psalm 104:10-11, 14, 16-18, 24, 27-28 


341




What laws did God create in animals that sustain them? 

Why can we be certain that bears will reproduce only bear cubs? 

In what other ways does God provide for and sustain the animals of 

the earth? 

Have students read God Sustains His Image-Bearers (SWT pp. 349-350). 

349 


27 These all look to you 

to give them their food at the proper time. 

28 When you give it to them, 

they gather it up; 

when you open your hand, 

they are satisfied with good things. 

Psalm 104:10-11 , 14, 16-18, 24, 27-28 

God Sustains His Image-Bearers. People are part of God’s 

universal creation. And like all other living things in the world, 

God also sustains us. He begins our lives within our mothers’ 

bodies. He shapes our bodies until the day we are born. Then 

He continues to sustain us each day we live. The Old T e stament 

writer Job described God’s sustaining care. 

 

God Sustains His Image-Bearers. People are part of God’s universal 

creation. And like all other living things in the world, God also sustains us. He 

begins our lives within our mothers’ bodies. He shapes our bodies until the day 

we are born. Then He continues to sustain us each day we live. The Old Testament 

writer Job described God’s sustaining care. 

8 “Your hands shaped me and made me. . . . 

9 Remember that you molded me like a piece of clay. . . . 

10 You formed me in my mother’s womb . . .. 

11 You put skin and flesh on me like clothing. 

You sewed me together with bones and muscles. 

12 You gave me life and showed me kindness. 

And in your care you watched over my life.” 

Job 10:8-10, 11 -12 ICB 

God’s sustaining care never ceases. He sustains us even in our 

old age. The Old T e stament prophet Isaiah wrote about how 

God cares for us when we are old. 

“Even to your old age and grey hairs I am he, 

I am he who will sustain you. 

I have made you and I will carry you; 

I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” 

Isaiah 46:4 


349 

8 

“Your hands shaped me and made me. . . . 

9 

Remember that you molded me like a piece of clay. . . . 

10 

You formed me in my mother’s womb . . .. 

11 

You put skin and flesh on me like clothing. 

You sewed me together with bones and muscles. 

12 

You gave me life and showed me kindness. 

And in your care you watched over my life.” 

Job 10:8-10, 11-12 ICB 

God’s sustaining care never ceases. He sustains us even in 

our old age. The Old Testament prophet Isaiah wrote about 

how God cares for us when we are old. 

“Even to your old age and grey hairs I am he, 

I am he who will sustain you. 

I have made you and I will carry you; 

I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” 

Isaiah 46:4 

Lesson 15 

When it is time for us to die, God will continue to sustain us. Though our physical bodies die, God 

promises us that death is the door to eternal life with Him. God will sustain forever the lives of those 

who have believed in Jesus and obeyed His words 

Precious in the sight of the LORD 

Is the death of his godly ones. 


“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not 

be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24 

350 

When it is time for us to die, God will continue to sustain us. Though our physical 

bodies die, God promises us that death is the door to eternal life with Him. 

God will sustain forever the lives of those who have believed in Jesus and 

obeyed His words 

Precious in the sight of the LORD 

Is the death of his godly ones. 


350 


“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and 

believes him who sent me has eternal life and will 

not be condemned; he has crossed over from death 

to life.” John 5:24 





When does God begin to sustain our lives? 

During which stages of our lives does God sustain us? 

In what ways does God sustain our lives? 

Why isn't death the end of our lives? 

For how long will God sustain our lives? 

How can we be sure God will sustain our lives in harmony with Him 

instead of separated from Him? 






topic 4. what is my relationship with the Universe? 


The Cultural Mandate: God ordained His image-bearers to be the stewards of 

His creation. In the words of Kevin Conner, “God not only purposed that man be 

something (character) but also that he do something (function).” 1 This “something” 

that we are commissioned to do includes the responsibilities of filling, subduing, 

and having dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:28), tasks corporately defined 

as the cultural mandate. As God's vice-regents, we are to continue the creative 

processes He initiated at creation. God calls us to rule over an earth He prepared 

for human habitation and to creatively develop every dimension of it for His glory 

and for our enjoyment and service. As God’s vice-regents on earth, we are to open 

up creation’s possibilities through cultural and societal development. Wolters defines 

the cultural mandate succinctly when he states, “In a single word, the task ahead 

is civilization.” 2 

To Fill the Earth: God’s first command to Adam and Eve was to fill the earth. 

Although God could have populated the earth by His word, He chose to fulfill His 

plan through the people He created. Within the institution of marriage, God gives 

us the privilege of continuing the creation of human life for His glory. 

In addition to the mandate to reproduce physically, we who are born anew into the 

family of God are called to reproduce spiritually. As children of God in His earthly 

family called the church, believers are called to be fruitful (John 15:16; Colossians 

1:10) and to make disciples (Matthew 28:19). In so doing, we contribute to the 

expansion of God’s spiritual family, which will one day rule and reign with Him in 

the new heaven and the new earth. 

To Subdue and Rule Over the Earth: The command to subdue and rule over the 

earth embraces the essence of the cultural mandate. Working with nature and not 

against it, we are clearly called to rule over our environment. The psalmist declares, 


343



“The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to man" (Psalm 

115:16). 

In releasing the earth to people He created, God calls us to dominate it rather than 

to be dominated by it. Though we must function within the parameters of natural 

laws, we are free to discover other laws of science that will enable us to transcend 

the seemingly impossible. Against the law of gravity, we have learned the dynamics 

of flight. Separated by miles, we can transmit our voices and see images of others. 

Beyond what can be seen by the naked eye, we have discovered the microbial world. 

The effects of disease, natural disasters, and other adverse natural phenomena 

have, to some extent, been diminished. Our limited “dominion” over nature in no 

way implies that we are the captain of our destiny or that science is the panacea for 

all the aberrations now found within the created order. But within our finite creative 

abilities and as God releases understanding to us, we are capable of having dominion 

over the earth according to God’s purposes and will. 

Ruling and subduing require us to work the earth. This means that we are to probe, 

research, discover, and use all the earth has for us. In this respect, creation is not a 

“static quantity.” 3 We develop culture and civilization by developing governments, the 

arts, commerce, tools, legal systems, education, literature, sports, industry, medicine, 

and everything else from the seemingly trivial to the extremely complex. We are 

to develop the natural resources hidden within the earth and discover natural laws 

that will enable us to exercise dominion over creation. These developments and 

discoveries help us provide for our basic needs and allow us to enjoy and revere 

God’s creation. 

References 

1. Kevin J. Conner, The Foundations 

of Christian Doctrine (Portland: 

Bible Temple Publishing, 

1980), p. 130. 

2. Albert M. Wolters, Creation 

Regained: Biblical Basics for 

a Reformational Worldview. 

(Grand Rapids, MI: William 

B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 

1985), p. 36. 

3. Ibid., p. 37. 

God’s command to us to subdue the earth does not authorize unregulated ravaging 

of the earth’s resources. Selfishness and greed have resulted in the misuse of 

natural resources, the destruction of plant and animal life, and the pollution of the 

earth and its atmosphere. Regretfully, some worldviews that focus primarily on 

the spiritual dimensions of reality have contributed to a lack of stewardship of the 

physical earth. 

In contrast to philosophies of greed and neglect, the biblical Christian worldview 

affirms that all dimensions of God’s created order are valuable and require our 

devoted stewardship for their preservation. As God’s vice-regents, we are charged 

by God to respect and care for all dimensions of the earthly creation (Genesis 2:15; 

Proverbs 12:10-11; Proverbs 28:19). The mandate to fill the earth, to creatively 

develop its cultures, and to carefully rule over it is for all people and for all times. 

No generation is exempt from obediently fulfilling its stewardship responsibilities. 

Even though our efforts are imperfect and all creation is subject to decay because 

of sin, God has not abandoned the work of His hands, and we must act diligently 

in our role as His stewards. 



students' understanding. Have them read We Are God's Stewards (SWT pp. 

353-354). 



 

We Are God’s Stewards. As you learned in Topic 3, God has a relationship 

with everything in the universe because He created it, owns it, and sustains it. 

God created us to have a relationship with the universe also, but not the same 

kind of relationship He has. We certainly didn’t create 

the universe, and we don’t own it. And we have no 

power to keep it going or sustain it. God designed our 

relationship to be with a small part of His universe—the 

earth. God created the earth to be our home and us 

to be its stewards. As you learned earlier, a steward 

is a person who rules over or takes charge of property 

owned by someone else. Although God owns the earth and all creation, He has 

given the earth to people to manage and rule over for His glory. 

353 


Topic 4 


What Is My Relationship With the Universe? 

We Are God’s Stewards. As you learned in Topic 3, God has a relationship with everything in the 

universe because He created it, owns it, and sustains it. God created us to have a relationship with the 

universe also, but not the same kind of relationship He has. We certainly didn’t create the universe, and 

we don’t own it. And we have no power to keep it going or sustain it. God designed our relationship to 

be with a small part of His universe—the earth. 

God created the earth to be our home and us 

to be its stewards. As you learned earlier, a 

steward is a person who rules over or takes 

charge of property owned by someone else. 

Although God owns the earth and all creation, 

He has given the earth to people to manage 

and rule over for His glory. 

King David and other Old T e stament psalmists 

understood the difference between God’s 

relationship to the universe and ours. 

The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. 

Psalm 24:1 



Psalm 115:16 

David expressed in one of his psalms his amazement at the 

authority over the earth God gave His image-bearers. 

3 When I consider Your heavens, 

the work of Your fi ngers, 

The moon and the stars, 

which You have ordained; 

4 What is man that You take thought of him, 

And the son of man that You care for him? 

5 Y e t You have made him a little lower than God, 

And You crown him with glory and majesty! 

6 You make him to rule over the works of Your hands; 

King David and other Old Testament psalmists understood the difference between 

God’s relationship to the universe and ours. 

You have put all things under his feet, 

7 All sheep and oxen, 

And also the beasts of the fi eld, 

8 The birds of the heavens and the fi sh of the sea, 

Whatever passes through the paths of the seas. 


353 

The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. 



Psalm 24:1 

Psalm 115:16 

David expressed in one of his psalms his amazement at the authority over the 

earth God gave His image-bearers. 

3 

When I consider Your heavens, 

the work of Your fingers, 

The moon and the stars, 

which You have ordained; 

4 

What is man that You take thought of him, 

And the son of man that You care for him? 

5 

Yet You have made him a little lower than God, 

And You crown him with glory and majesty! 

6 

You make him to rule over the works of Your hands; 

You have put all things under his feet, 

7 

All sheep and oxen, 

And also the beasts of the field, 

8 

The birds of the heavens and the fish of the sea, 

Whatever passes through the paths of the seas. 

9 

O LORD, our Lord, 

How majestic is Your name in all the earth! 

Psalm 8:3-9 NAS 95 


Who owns the heavens and the earth? Why? 

If God owns everything, what does Scripture mean when it says "the 

earth he has given to man"? 

What kind of relationship did God create for you to have with the 

earth? 


345




What is a steward? 

What things on earth does God give us to rule over? 

Have students read How Do We Rule the Earth? (SWT p. 354). 

Lesson 15 

9 O LORD, our Lord, 

How majestic is Your name in all the earth! 

Psalm 8:3-9 NAS 95 

How Do We Rule the Earth? T o rule over or steward the works of God on earth is a huge responsibility, 

a responsibility no animal could possibly fulfill. Only people, God’s image-bearers, have the ability. 

God crowned us with glory and honor, giving us the ability to rule. We can think and reason, make 

choices, and act on God’s behalf to manage and care 

for everything He made on earth. But how do we fulfi ll 

this responsibility? 

Y o u remember that after God created Adam and Eve, 

He gave them a command or a mandate to be stewards 

of His earth. In His command, God gave three primary 

responsibilities not only to Adam and Eve, but also to 

us. 

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and 

increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule 

over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over 

every living creature that moves on the ground.” 

Genesis 1:28 

As God’s stewards, we are to fill the earth with people through 

family and birth. Together, we are to subdue the earth. This 

means we are to manage, develop, and care for all the earth’s 

resources to meet our needs. We are to use these resources 

carefully in building our communities and nations for God’s glory. 

This does not mean we are to use the earth’s treasures carelessly 

or selfishly. Rather, we are to use them wisely, protecting 

them from misuse or destruction so that future generations will 

also be able to use them. 

As God’s stewards, we are also called to rule over the living 

creatures of the earth. This means we are to protect them and 

use them wisely for our benefi t. Some we use for food and clothing, 

and others we use to help us in our work. But however we 

use them, we must respect all creatures as God’s creatures. 

354 

 

How Do We Rule the Earth? To rule over or steward the works of God on 

earth is a huge responsibility, a responsibility no animal could possibly fulfill. 

Only people, God’s image-bearers, have the ability. God crowned us with glory 

and honor, giving us the ability to rule. We can think and 

reason, make choices, and act on God’s behalf to manage 

and care for everything He made on earth. But how 

do we fulfill this responsibility? 

You remember that after God created Adam and Eve, He 

gave them a command or a mandate to be stewards of His 

earth. In His command, God gave three primary responsibilities 

not only to Adam and Eve, but also to us. 

354 


God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the 

earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and 

over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Genesis 1:28 

As God’s stewards, we are to fill the earth with people through family and birth. 

Together, we are to subdue the earth. This means we are to manage, develop, 

and care for all the earth’s resources to meet our needs. We are to use these 

resources carefully in building our communities and nations for God’s glory. 

This does not mean we are to use the earth’s treasures carelessly or selfishly. 

Rather, we are to use them wisely, protecting them from 

misuse or destruction so that future generations will also be 

able to use them. 

As God’s stewards, we are also called to rule over the living 

creatures of the earth. This means we are to protect them 

and use them wisely for our benefit. Some we use for food 

and clothing, and others we use to help us in our work. But 

however we use them, we must respect all creatures as 

God’s creatures. 


Why are people the only part of the earthly creation capable of ruling 

over it for God? 

Why did God command His image-bearers to fill the earth? 

What is God's plan for how the earth is to be filled with people? 

What does God's command to subdue the earth mean? 

How are we to rule responsibly over the living creatures of the earth? 

What is each generation's responsibility for the earth? 



topic 5. where is the universe going? 



The Renewal of the Universe: The biblical Christian worldview affirms that the 

created order will be set free from the effects of the curse brought about by the 

fall. This redemption of the created order from the effects of sin means that it will 

be restored, although it will not return to its original pristine and undeveloped 

state. Rather, redemption implies that the cultural mandate that God initiated in 

the beginning will be perfected. The same mystery that links the sin of Adam to the 

curse of nature extends to the redemption of all people and nature. Even as nature 

suffers as a result of our sin, so will it rejoice in our redemption (Psalm 96:10-13) 

and in its own restoration (Isaiah 11:6-9; Romans 8:20-21). In Christ, “all things” 

will be reconciled and made new (Colossians 1:20). 

Scripture speaks clearly of the time when the creation will be “liberated from its 

bondage to decay” (Romans 8:21), and in its place will be “a new heaven and a 

new earth, the home of righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13). The prophet Isaiah speaks of 

the Kingdom of God in terms of a new order as he foretells of the new heaven and 

earth (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22). Jesus speaks of "the renewal of all things” (Matthew 

19:28) and Peter refers to the future restoration of all things (Acts 3:21). Perhaps 

the most dramatic words are those of Christ when He says, “I am making everything 

new!” (Revelation 21:5). 

The Goodness of Creation: The promised renewal of the cosmos is clear evidence 

that God values the physical world. The material is not dissolved in God’s final 

judgement; rather, it is renewed and perfected. In fact, the new heavens and earth 

will be a continuation of the existing order, only purified by fire. People will exist in 

bodily form on a perfected earth, and God’s purposes for creation will be perfectly 

fulfilled. In that new order, He will reign supreme as He dwells with His imagebearers 

(Revelation 21:3). 

Wolters suggests that the present cultural dimensions of earth will not be absent 

from the new earth. 1 They will, however, be purified. All that God ordained will be 

perfectly lived out as the splendor of the kings of the earth and the glory and honor 

of the nations are brought into the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:24-26). 

Until the Renewal of All Things: Although the death of Christ has already paid 

the price for the redemption of creation, the natural created order is still decaying. 

Although our spiritual or inward nature is being renewed, our physical bodies 

remain under the curse of death (2 Corinthians 4:16). This apparent discrepancy 

is explained by the fact that there are dimensions of the redeemed order that are 

“already” and some that are “not yet.” With reference to creation, Wolters affirms 

that the first coming of Christ established His “foothold in creation, while the second 

coming accomplishes the complete victory of His sovereignty.” 2 

Until Christ returns, we are to work redemptively in the earth, affecting every institution 

for righteousness. The argument that we can abandon our responsibility to the 

physical earth because it is decaying is indefensible. Just as we are to care for our 

own decaying bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), so we 

are to continue fulfilling the cultural mandate as stewards of God’s creation. 

References 

1. Albert M. Wolters, Creation 

Regained: Biblical Basics for 

a Reformational Worldview. 

(Grand Rapids, MI: William 

B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 

1985), p. 64. 

2. Ibid., p. 63. 


347




355 


Topic 5 

Where Is the Universe Going? 

The Curse of Creation: God’s plan for all eternity has been for us to live in eternal harmony with 

ourselves, each other, and the earth. Sadly, this harmony was destroyed when Adam and Eve gave in 

to Satan’s temptation and disobeyed God by eating the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good 

and Evil. At that moment, death, decay, and disharmony entered creation. Adam and Eve began to 

die physically. They became separated from God, themselves, and each other. And God cursed the 

earth, making it difficult to rule over and subdue. Moses recorded the words God said to Adam the 

day he and Eve disobeyed God. 

17 T o Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and 

ate from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must 











for dust you are 

and to dust you will return.” 


A Plan to Redeem Creation: Although chaos and disharmony entered creation, God was not defeated. 

Nor was His eternal plan for creation defeated. On the day Adam and Eve disobeyed, God revealed His 

plan to redeem and restore harmony in creation through 

Jesus. Speaking directly to Satan, God said, 

14 “Because you did this, 

a curse will be put on you. 

You will be cursed more than any tame animal 

or wild animal. 

You will crawl on your stomach, 

and you will eat dust all the days of your life. 

15 I will make you and the woman 

 


understanding. Have them read The Curse of Creation (SWT p. 355). 

The Curse of Creation: God’s plan for all eternity has been for us to live in 

eternal harmony with ourselves, each other, and the earth. Sadly, this harmony 

was destroyed when Adam and Eve gave in to Satan’s temptation and disobeyed 

God by eating the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. At that 

moment, death, decay, and disharmony entered creation. Adam and Eve began 

to die physically. They became separated from God, themselves, and each other. 

And God cursed the earth, making it difficult to rule over and subdue. Moses 

recorded the words God said to Adam the day he and Eve disobeyed God. 

17 

To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree 

about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat of it,’ 


enemies to each other. 

Your descendants and her descendants 

will be enemies. 

355 




18 

It will produce thorns and thistles for you, 


19 

By the sweat of your brow 








What happened to Adam and Eve's relationship with God because of 

their sin? Their relationship with themselves? With each other? 

What began to happen physically to Adam and Eve because of their 

sin? 

When Adam and Eve sinned, did the earth also disobey God and 

sin? Why not? 

If the earth did not sin, why did God curse it? 

What curse did God place on the earth? 

Do you think thorns and thistles are the only kind of disharmony in 

the earth because of God's curse? 

What other kinds of disharmony does the earth experience because 

of God's curse? 

What kind of relationship do we now have with the earth because of 

God's curse? 

Do you think work was part of the punishment Adam and Eve received 

because of their sin? Why not? 




How did God's curse of the earth change the work of stewarding it? 


Did the fall defeat God's plan for creation? Why not? 

What eternal plan for creation, including the universe, has God 

always had? 

Have students read A Plan to Redeem Creation (SWT pp. 355-356). 

 

A Plan to Redeem Creation: Although chaos and disharmony entered creation, 355 

God was not defeated. Nor was His eternal plan for creation 

defeated. On the day Adam and Eve disobeyed, 

God revealed His plan to redeem and restore harmony 

in creation through Jesus. Speaking directly to Satan, 

God said, 

14 

“Because you did this, 






15 

I will make you and the woman 






Genesis 3:14-15 ICB 

The descendant of the woman Who was born many generations after Adam 

and Eve was Jesus. In dying on the cross and rising from death, Jesus crushed 

Satan’s head. He destroyed his evil plans and work. Jesus’ 

death and resurrection made it possible for us to be 

restored in harmony with God, with ourselves, and with 

each other. But what about the earth? Do you think Jesus 

also died and rose to life again to restore harmony within 

the earth and between the earth and His image-bearers? 

If we have the promise of an eternal future life with God, 

do you think the earth, our home, has the promise of an 

eternal future as well? 


What curse did God place on Satan? 

What did God mean when He said He would make Satan and the 

woman enemies? 

Who was the woman's descendant Whom God promised would one 

day crush Satan's head? 

Was Jesus born to Eve? To whom was Jesus born? When? 

How has Jesus crushed Satan's head? 

Topic 5 

Where Is the Universe Going? 

The Curse of Creation: God’s plan for all eternity has been for us to live in eternal harmony with 

ourselves, each other, and the earth. Sadly, this harmony was destroyed when Adam and Eve gave in 

to Satan’s temptation and disobeyed God by eating the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good 

and Evil. At that moment, death, decay, and disharmony entered creation. Adam and Eve began to 

die physically. They became separated from God, themselves, and each other. And God cursed the 

earth, making it diffi cult to rule over and subdue. Moses recorded the words God said to Adam the 

day he and Eve disobeyed God. 

17 T o Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and 

ate from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must 






and you will eat the plants of the fi eld. 









A Plan to Redeem Creation: Although chaos and disharmony entered creation, God was not defeated. 

Nor was His eternal plan for creation defeated. On the day Adam and Eve disobeyed, God revealed His 

plan to redeem and restore harmony in creation through 

Jesus. Speaking directly to Satan, God said, 

14 “Because you did this, 






15 I will make you and the woman 




Lesson 15 



And you will bit his heel.” 


The descendant of the woman Who was born many 

generations after Adam and Eve was Jesus. In dying on 

the cross and rising from death, Jesus crushed Satan’s 

head. He destroyed his evil plans and work. Jesus’ death 

and resurrection made it possible for us to be restored in 

harmony with God, with ourselves, and with each other. 

But what about the earth? Do you think Jesus also died 

and rose to life again to restore harmony within the earth 

and between the earth and His image-bearers? If we 

have the promise of an eternal future life with God, do 

you think the earth, our home, has the promise of an 


A New Heaven and a New Earth: Long ago, God spoke to the people of Israel through the prophet 

Isaiah. He promised them that one day He would create a new heaven and a new earth. 

17 ”Look, I will make new heavens and a new earth. 

And people will not remember the past. 

They will not think about those things. 

18 My people will be happy forever because of the things I will make.” 

Isaiah 65:17-18 ICB 

God revealed this truth to writers of the New T e stament as well. In one of the apostle Paul’s letters to 

early Christians, he confi rmed the words of the prophet Isaiah. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens 

and new earth he has promised, a world filled 

with God’s righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 NLT 

Paul also explained that God’s curse of the 

physical earth would one day be lifted. The 

earth and all creation would be set free from 

death and decay just as God’s image-bearers 

would be set free. Paul wrote about this in his 

first letter to Christians in the city of Corinth. 

20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to 

God’s curse. But with eager hope 21 the creation 

looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 


356 


355 

356 


349




What does the crushing of Satan's head tell you about his defeat? 

(He has been completely defeated by Christ.) 

How did Satan bite Jesus' heel? 

Why did Jesus have to die for creation? 

What does the biting of Jesus' heel tell you about Satan's power over 

Jesus and the world? (It is limited.) 

Who are Satan's descendants? Who are the woman's descendents? 

Why are people who follow Satan (his descendents) and those who 

follow Jesus (the woman's descendents) enemies? 

Which relationships of creation do you think are included in God's 

plan for redemption? 

Do you think the universe is included in this plan? Why? Why not? 

Have students read A New Heaven and a New Earth (SWT pp. 356-357). 

Lesson 15 


And you will bit his heel.” 


The descendant of the woman Who was born many 

generations after Adam and Eve was Jesus. In dying on 

the cross and rising from death, Jesus crushed Satan’s 

head. He destroyed his evil plans and work. Jesus’ death 

and resurrection made it possible for us to be restored in 

harmony with God, with ourselves, and with each other. 

But what about the earth? Do you think Jesus also died 

and rose to life again to restore harmony within the earth 

and between the earth and His image-bearers? If we 

have the promise of an eternal future life with God, do 

you think the earth, our home, has the promise of an 


A New Heaven and a New Earth: Long ago, God spoke to the people of Israel through the prophet 

Isaiah. He promised them that one day He would create a new heaven and a new earth. 

17 ”Look, I will make new heavens and a new earth. 



18 My people will be happy forever because of the things I will make.” 


God revealed this truth to writers of the New T e stament as well. In one of the apostle Paul’s letters to 

early Christians, he confi rmed the words of the prophet Isaiah. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens 

and new earth he has promised, a world filled 

with God’s righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 NLT 

Paul also explained that God’s curse of the 

physical earth would one day be lifted. The 

earth and all creation would be set free from 

death and decay just as God’s image-bearers 

would be set free. Paul wrote about this in his 

first letter to Christians in the city of Corinth. 

20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to 

God’s curse. But with eager hope 21 the creation 

looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 


356 


356 

 

A New Heaven and a New Earth: Long ago, God spoke to the people of Israel 

through the prophet Isaiah. He promised them that one day He would create a 

new heaven and a new earth. 

17 

”Look, I will make new heavens and a new earth. 



18 

My people will be happy forever because of the things I will make.” 


God revealed this truth to writers of the New Testament 

as well. In one of the apostle Paul’s letters 

to early Christians, he confirmed the words of the 

prophet Isaiah. 

But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, 

a world filled with God’s righteousness. 2 Peter 3:13 NLT 

Paul also explained that God’s curse of the physical earth would one day be 

lifted. The earth and all creation would be set free from death and decay just 

as God’s image-bearers would be set free. Paul wrote about this in his letter to 

Christians in the city of Rome. 

20 

Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope 

21 

the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious 


God also revealed this truth about an eternal new heavens and earth to the 

apostle John in a vision while he was a prisoner for his faith on the small island 

of Patmos in the Mediterranean Sea. 

1 


earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. . . . 




5 

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything 

new!” 

No longer will there be any curse. Revelation 22:3 

Revelation 21:1, 5 

From these Scriptures, we understand that God’s plan to 

restore harmony in creation extends to every part of it and 

to every relationship in it. Not only did Jesus die to restore 

harmony in our relationships with God, ourselves, and others, He also died and 

rose to life again to reconcile or bring all things back into harmony with God 

and people. “All things” includes the physical universe. 

God inspired the apostle Paul to write about this great truth in his letter to 

Christians in the city of Colossae. 

357 


God also revealed this truth about an eternal new heavens and earth to the apostle John in a vision 

while he was a prisoner for his faith on the small island of Patmos in the Mediterranean Sea. 

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven 

and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer 

any sea. . . . 

5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything 

new!” Revelation 21:1, 5 

No longer will there be any curse. Revelation 22:3 

From these Scriptures, we understand that God’s plan to restore 

harmony in creation extends to every part of it and to every 

relationship in it. Not only did Jesus die to restore harmony 

in our relationships with God, ourselves, and others, He also 

died and rose to life again to reconcile or bring all things back 

into harmony with God and people. “All things” includes the 

physical universe. 

God inspired the apostle Paul to write about this great truth 

in his letter to Christians in the city of Colossae. 

19 For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, 20 and through him God reconciled everything 

to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the 

cross. Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 

The heavens and earth have always been included 

in God’s good and eternal plan for creation. 

Just as the fi rst earth was created to be 

the fi rst home of God’s image-bearers, so the 

new earth will be the home of the Holy City, the 

New Jerusalem, where God’s image-bearers will 

live eternally with God. The apostle John saw 

this amazing truth in a vision and wrote about it 

in the New T e stament Book of Revelation. 

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for 

the fi rst heaven and the fi rst earth had passed 

away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw 

the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down 

out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud 

voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They 

will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. Revelation 21:1-3 



357 

19 


reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and 

on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. Colossians 1:19-20 NLT 

The heavens and earth have always been included in 

God’s good and eternal plan for creation. Just as the 

first earth was created to be the first home of God’s 

image-bearers, so the new earth will be the home of 

the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, where God’s imagebearers 

will live eternally with God. The apostle John 

saw this amazing truth in a vision and wrote about it in the New Testament Book 

of Revelation. 

1 


earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy 

City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as 

a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from 

the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with 

them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their 

God. Revelation 21:1-3 


What did God reveal to the prophet Isaiah about His plan for restoring 

harmony in the universe? What did God reveal to the apostle 

Peter? 

According to the apostle Paul, from what will the universe or entire 

creation be set free? 

What did the apostle John see in his vision and write about in the 

Book of Revelation? 

According to Revelation, how much of the original creation does 

Jesus promise to make new? 

What is going to be removed from the earth? 


351




According to Paul's letter to Christians in Colossae, how much of 

creation is going to be reconciled or brought back into harmony with 

God? Do you think this includes the earth and other parts of the 

universe? Why? 

What price did God pay to redeem and restore harmony in every 

relationship of creation? 

What future has God planned for the new heavens and earth? 

What relationships do you think will exist in the new earth? Why? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 15 Memory Verse 3, Romans 8:20-21 NLT. 


Lesson 15 


20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope 

21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious 

358 

 

20 

Against its will, all creation was subjected to God's curse. But with eager 

hope 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children 

in glorious freedom from death and decay. Romans 8:20-21 NLT 


Why did God curse Adam and Eve with death and decay? 

Did the earth or universe also sin? Why not? 

If the earth or universe did not sin, why did God curse them with 

death and decay? 

To what does everything in the universe look forward? What makes 

freedom from death and decay possible? 

358 


DISPLAY the Worldview Model. Have students identify the parts of the House 

of Truth that correlate with this lesson's focus on the creation of the universe 

(Biblical Truth 4), God's relationship with the universe (Biblical Truths 4, 17), 

our relationship with the universe (Biblical Truth 18, 19, 20), and the destiny of 

the universe (Biblical Truth 20). 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Writing About It (SWT p. 

359), The Main Points (SWT p. 360), and Hiding God's Word (SWT pp. 361- 

362). If you prefer, create comprehension, application, and enrichment activities 

of your own. 


Building 

on the 

Rock 

A Biblical Christian Worldview and Bible Survey Curriculum for Grades 1-6 

“The wise man built his house on rock.” Matthew 7:24b ICB 

by 

John F. Hay, Jr. 


An Introduction to Biblical and Unbiblical Beliefs About God, 

the Universe, Human Beings, Truth, and Values 

Teacher Manual 

Volume 2 

Level 6 

® 

A Summit Ministries® Curriculum 

For more information please visit www.summit.org or call: 719-685-9103

Credits 

Editors 

Nancy Hay 

Amanda Lewis 

Illustrators 

Pat Edwards 

Justin Hotz 

Vance Warwick 

Design Layout 

Joel Putnam 

Chris White 

Video 

Todd Cothran 

Worldview Model Design 

Steven Myasato 

Go Organic India 

Music Composition and Recording 

Brad Nyght 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®. Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible 

Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 

Scriptures marked ESV are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a 

division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 

Scriptures marked God's Word are taken from God's Word. God's Word is a copyrighted work of God's Word to the Nations 

Bible Society. Quotations are used by permission. Copyright 1995 by God's Word to the Nations Bible Society. All rights 

reserved. 

Scriptures marked ICB are taken from the International Children’s Bible®. Copyright© 1986, 1988, 1999 by Tommy Nelson 

®, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 

Scriptures marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible®. Copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 

1972, 1973, 1975, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) 

Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by 


Scriptures marked NLT are taken from the New Living Translation. Copyright 1996 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by 


Artwork used with permission. ©Bill Noller International Publishing. San Dimas, CA 91773. Illustrations by Allan Parry. 

Copyright© 2009 Summit Ministries®, Manitou Springs, Colorado 

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced (with the exception of the specified Blackline Masters 

included), transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form by any means 

without the written permission of Summit Ministries, Manitou Springs, Colorado. 

ISBN 0-936163-78-X (Volume 2) 

Published by Summit Press, P.O. Box 207, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 

Printed in India 

ii

contents 

Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................ iii 

Foreword ............................................................................................................................................................................. v 

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... vii 

General Format for the Worldview Curriculum ..................................................................................................... viii 

Materials for the Worldview Curriculum .................................................................................................................. xi 

Syllabus for Units 1-5 ................................................................................................................................................... xv 

volume 2 

UNIT 3: Islam—An Unbiblical view of god and the world 

Lesson 17: Muhammad, mosques, and muslims 

An Introduction to and a Brief History of Islam ...................................................................................... 1 

Lesson 18: A Book With "no crookedness" Qur'an 18:1 

The Islamic View of Truth............................................................................................................................. 29 

Lesson 19: "Allah! There is no god but He" Qur'an 2:255 

The Islamic View of God ............................................................................................................................... 67 

Lesson 20: ". . . and He Created All Things" qur'an 6:101 

The Islamic View of People and the Universe ........................................................................................ 103 

Lesson 21: "Good and Evil are not alike" Qur'an 41:34 

The Islamic View of Moral Laws and Values ........................................................................................... 143 

UNIT 4: naturalism—an unbiblical view of the world without god 

Lesson 22: There is no god, and that's the truth! 

The Naturalist View of God and Truth .................................................................................................... 191 

Lesson 23: Accidents do happen, don't they? 

The Naturalist View of People and the Universe .................................................................................. 217 

Lesson 24: i'll decide what's right and wrong, thank you! 

The Naturalist View of Moral Laws and Values ....................................................................................... xx 

UNIT 5: the new age—an unbiblical view of the world as God 

Lesson 25: I am God, and that's the truth! 

The New Age View of God and Truth ......................................................................................................... xx 

Lesson 26: love your mother (mother earth, that is!) 

The New Age View of People and the Universe ....................................................................................... xx 

Lesson 27: it's your karma, and you deserve it 

The New Age View of Moral Laws and Values .......................................................................................... xx 

iii

LESSON 17 

Muhammad, Muslims, and mosques 

An Introduction to and a Brief History of Islam 

Introduction 


Islam, the world's third great theistic religion, came into existence in 622 A.D. Based on 

revelations the prophet Muhammad is said to have received from God, Islam spread 

quickly throughout the predominately polytheistic tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. 

Within 100 years, Islamic armies had spread by force the new faith throughout the 

Middle East and parts of India, Africa, and Europe. With the conquest of Jerusalem 

in 632 A.D. and its future thrusts into Turkey and parts of Europe, in later centuries 

Islam began to dominate parts of the world where Christianity had once flourished. 

Today, Islam continues its mandate to bring the entire world into submission to Allah, 

the God it holds to be the only true and living God. 

This lesson introduces students to the birth and early history of Islam and sets the 

stage for future lessons that will explore the Islamic view of truth, God, people, the 

universe, and values and compare them to the biblical Christian worldview. 

lesson 17 Memory Verses 

15 

. . . if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain 

it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 

Objectives 

• Students will highlight Muhammad's early life and identify his role in founding 

Islam. 








lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














• Students will explore the history of Muhammad's supposed revelations from God 

and identify the main message upon which Islam is based. 

• Students will explore the early history of Islam and identify where and how the 

world's newest theistic religion and worldview spread in its first 100 years. 

• Students will identify the history and basic characteristics of the two main divisions 

within Islam today. 

• Students will highlight and describe the scope and influence of Islam's presence 

in the world today. 


1



Materials 



Lesson 17 Memory Verses 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 

Word/Phrase 17a Muhammad 

Word/Phrase 17b Islam 

Word/Phrase 17c Muslim 

Word/Phrase 17d Qur'an 

Word/Phrase 17e Mecca 

Word/Phrase 17f Quraysh 

Word/Phrase 17g Khadijah 

Word/Phrase 17h Ka'aba 

Word/Phrase 17i Hajj 

Word/Phrase 17j Surah 

Word/Phrase 17k Allah 

Word/Phrase 17l Medina or Yathrib 

Word/Phrase 17m Hijrah 

Word/Phrase 17n Abu Bakr 

Word/Phrase 17o Caliph 

Word/Phrase 17p Shi'ite Muslims 

Word/Phrase 17q Sunni Muslims 

Word/Phrase 17r Umar the Great 

Word/Phrase 17s Mosque 


Definition 17b 


Definition 17d 

Definition 17e 

Definition 17f 

Definition 17g 

Definition 17h 

Definition 17i 

Definition 17j 

Muhammad: (Arabic—praised one) The founding 

prophet of Islam 

Islam: (Arabic—to surrender) The newest 

theistic worldview religion founded in 622 A.D. 

by Muhammad of Arabia 

Muslim: (Derived from Islam) One who submits 

Qur'an: (Arabic—the recitation) The holy book 

of Islam said to contain Allah's revelations to 

Muhammad 

Mecca: The business and religious center of 

polytheistic Arabia and the center of Islam 

today 

Quraysh: The powerful Arabic tribe to which 

Muhammad belonged 

Khadijah: (Arabic—early one) A wealthy 

tradeswoman, Muhammad's first wife, and Islam's 

first convert 

Ka'aba: (Arabic—cube) The cube-shaped shrine 

in Mecca designated as the house of Allah 

Hajj: (Arabic—pilgrimage) The annual religious 

journey Muslims make to Mecca 

Surah: An Arabic word used exclusively for the 

chapters of the Qur'an 

2 A World of Worldviews

Muhammad, Muslims, and Mosques 

Definition 17k 

Definition 17l 

Definition 17m 

Definition 17n 

Definition 17o 

Definition 17p 

Definition 17q 

Definition 17r 

Definition 17s 

Allah: (Arabic—God) The Islamic name for God 

as found in the Qur'an 

Medina or Yathrib: A city north of Mecca; 

Muhammad and his followers fled there to escape 

persecution in Mecca 

Hijrah: (Arabic—flight or migration) The flight 

Muhammad made in 622 A.D. from Mecca to 

Medina to escape persecution 

Abu Bakr: The first caliph of Islam who led its 

armies to force all the tribes of Arabia to submit 

to the teachings of Muhammad 

Caliph: Islam's leader and Muhammad's 

representative after his death in 632 A.D. 

Shi'ite Muslims: Muslims who believe that 

Muhammad's successors should come from his 

family or bloodline 

Sunni Muslims: Muslims who believe that 

Muhammad's successors should be elected 

Umar the Great: The second caliph of Islam who 

led its armies to conquer parts of Africa, the Middle 

East, Asia, and Europe and spread the teachings 

of Muhammad 

Mosque: A place of worship, prayers, and 

community activities for followers of Islam 


World Map or a Map of the Middle East 

A Qur'an in English or English/Arabic (available at large book stores) 






Topic 2 



Writing About It: p.23 




Group Discussion 

Islam in My Community, Nation, and Around the World: Help students identify 

signs of the presence of Islam in their community (mosques, dress, etc). 

Have them identify Islamic influences and issues affecting the nation and 

international community. Have them research these influences through news 

magazines, television, and other resources such as Voice of the Martyrs 

children's website at http://www.kidsofcourage.com, which contains age 

appropriate materials related to Islam and Christian persecution. 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 


3




Islam Around the Globe: Display a world map on a bulletin board. Using 

pins and yarn with labels or small pins with flags, identify the predominately 

Islamic nations in the world today. Use a search engine to locate web sites 

that provide World Religion Distribution Maps. 

Living in Muslim Communities: Invite people in your local community or 

church who have lived and worked among Muslim populations to share 

their experiences and other facts of interest related to Islam. 


Elass, Mateen. Understanding the Koran: A Quick Christian Guide to the Muslim 

Holy Book. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2004. 

Geisler, Norman L. and Abdul Saleeb. Answering Islam: The Crescent in the 

Light of the Cross. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1993. 

Halverson, Dean. The Illustrated Guide to World Religions. Bloomington: Bethany 

House Publishers, 1996. 

Robinson, Stuart. Mosques and Miracles: Revealing Islam and God's Grace. 

Australia: City Harvest House Publications, 2004. 

Website: www.answering-islam.org. An excellent and up-to-date website relating 

to Islam. 





getting started—what is Islam? 

Islam and its adherents, who are called Muslims, no longer bring to mind tales of 

Arabian nights or the sand dunes of Arabia. This rapidly expanding world religion 

and worldview is now front and center on the stage of international affairs. It is the 

topic of concern and conversation among political leaders as well as the average 

person on the street. Much of the attention on Islam is focused on its radical militant 

wing, especially since the events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent wars 

in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, however, attention is also being drawn to Islam's 

more peaceful but rapid growth in the traditionally non-Islamic West. As mosques 

seem to spring up from nowhere in the cornfields of American's heartland and as 

many churches in countries like England are converted into mosques, people are 

asking: What is Islam? What beliefs do its adherents hold? Where is it going? Does 

it have a global agenda? Isn't it really just a theistic worldview that believes in the 



same God as Christians? 


As the spirit of Islam rises up and becomes a primary shaper of world events today, 

it is hard to imagine that it emerged only 1,400 years ago within a polytheistic 

tribal culture on the Arabian Peninsula and a little over 600 years after the birth 

of Christianity. Beginning in 610 A.D. and continuing for 23 years, an Arab named 

Muhammad claimed to have received God's final revelations to His creation. The 

essence of these revelations, which have been compiled into Islam's holy book, 

the Qur'an, states that Allah is the only true and living God and that Muhammad 

is his prophet—the last in a line of prophets to whom God has spoken over the 

centuries. These revelations are said to be a correction or realignment of all Jewish 

and Christian revelations, which Muhammad is said to have been told had become 

distorted by their adherents. 

Although Islam contains elements of Judaism and Christianity, at its core it is neither, 

but rather a distortion of these worldviews. The Allah of Islam is not the God of the 

Bible. Islam does not consider people as image-bearers or children of God. And 

while the existence of evil, individual accountability, and judgment for sin are included 

within Islamic teaching, notably missing are the divine nature of Christ as the Son of 

God and salvation from God's judgment on sin through faith in the atoning work of 

Christ. These and other critical differences between Christianity and Islam require 

that Islam be identified as an unbiblical view of God and the world. 

As in any worldview, what people hold to be true about truth, God, humanity, the 

universe, and values affects their behavior. Corporately, these beliefs determine 

the outward expressions of a culture as expressed in dress, diet, marriage and 

family customs, laws and codes regulating social behavior, worship, architecture, 

and education, to mention only a few. Today's Islam and the culture it fosters are 

readily identifiable, reflecting a worldview that requires Christians and others to 

examine it more carefully. Islam, meaning submission, and Muslims, meaning those 

who submit, are set on global domination by their worldview and religion. Though 

moderate Muslims might dispute this fact, verses from the Qur'an are taken literally 

by many within Islam today, especially among the militant. 

Fight those from among the people of the Book, who believe not in Allah, nor in the 

Last Day, nor hold as unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have declared to be 

unlawful, nor follow the true religion, until they pay the tax considering it a favor and 

acknowledge their subjection. Surah 9:29 

O ye who believe! Fight those of the disbelievers who are near to you, and let them 

find harshness in you, and know that Allah is with those who keep their duty (unto 

Him). Surah 9:123 

As you teach the lessons of this unit, be careful not to instill a fear of Islam in your 

students. At the same time, it is important to make them aware not only of the 

dynamic growth and expansion of Islam throughout the world but also how this 

theistic worldview differs radically from biblical Christianity. 


5


1 


UNIT 3 

ISLAM 

AN UNBIBLICAL VIEW OF 

GOD AND THE WORLD 


 

Have students turn to the Unit 3 title page (SWT p. 1). Have them study the icon 

for Unit 3. Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. The picture includes a 

mosque (center for Islamic worship) and a crescent moon, a universal symbol 

of Islam. 

Have students turn to Getting Started (SWT p. 2). Have them read the title and 

subtitle of Lesson 17. 



1 

What is Islam? 

Who was Muhammad? 

What are Muslims? 

What are mosques? 

In Lesson 2, you learned about three categories of worldviews— 

theistic, naturalistic, and pantheistic. In which category do you think 

Islam belongs? Why? 

Explain that Unit 3 explores the world's third great theistic worldview and religion, 

Islam. 

Have students read What Is Islam? (SWT pp. 2-3). 

LESSON 17 


An Introduction to and a Brief History of Islam 

Getting Started—What Is Islam? 

Almost 1,400 year ago—600 years after Christianity was born— 

the world’s third great theistic religion was born. As you studied 

briefly in Lesson 2, this religion is called Islam. In the year 610 

A.D. in the desert in present-day Saudi Arabia, a man named 

Muhammad reported that he received a special revelation of 

truth from God through the angel Gabriel. These revelations 

continued for twenty-three years. After each revelation, Muhammad 

recited the words he heard to men, who wrote them down. 

People who believed that Muhammad’s words were truth from 

God submitted themselves to obey them. Islam is the Arabic 

word for submission, and people who submit to the revelations 

Muhammad said he received from God are known as Muslims. 

The word Muslim is derived or taken from the word Islam and 

means one who submits. 

Eventually all Muhammad’s revelations were combined in one 

book, and this book is called the Qur’an (Koran). Today more than 

one billion people, almost 22 percent of the world’s population, 

believe that the Qur’an is a holy book, a truthful revelation from 

God. They believe that the Qur’an contains truth about truth, 

God, people, the universe, and right and wrong. These beliefs, 

of course, become the glasses through which Muslims 

look at and interpret the world around them. These beliefs 

form their worldview, and their worldview determines how 

they think, dress, eat, raise their families, build their communities, 

and how they worship the God they believe is the 

only true God. 

The Islamic worldview is a theistic worldview because it holds 

that only one all-powerful creator God exists, but it is not a 

The Qur’an 

biblical worldview. Islam’s iews v about God and His Son Jesus 

are very different from biblical Christianity’s views. Islam’s 

views about the nature of people as God’s image-bearers are also unlike biblical Christianity’s views. 

These and other differences between Christianity and Islam are important to understand as we study 

how Islam has spread throughout the world, sometimes peacefully and sometimes by force. 


2 

 

What Is Islam? Almost 1,400 year ago—600 years after 

Christianity was born—the world’s third great theistic religion 

came into existence. As you studied briefly in Lesson 2, this 

religion is called Islam. In the year 610 A.D. in the desert in 

present-day Saudi Arabia, a man named Muhammad reported 

that he received a special revelation of truth from God through 

the angel Gabriel. These revelations continued for twenty-three 

years. After each revelation, Muhammad recited the words he 

heard to men, who wrote them down. People who believed that 

Muhammad’s words were truth from God submitted themselves to obey them. 

Islam is the Arabic word for submission, and people who submit to the revelations 

Muhammad said he received from God are known as Muslims. The word 

Muslim is derived or taken from the word Islam and means one who submits. 

Eventually all Muhammad’s revelations were combined in one book, and this 

book is called the Qur’an (Koran). Today more than one billion people, almost 

22 percent of the world’s population, believe that the Qur’an 

is a holy book, a truthful revelation from God. They believe 

that the Qur’an contains truth about truth, God, people, the 

universe, and right and wrong. These beliefs, of course, 

become the glasses through which Muslims look at and 

The Qur’an 

interpret the world around them. These beliefs form their 

worldview, and their worldview determines how they think, 

dress, eat, raise their families, build their communities, and how they worship 

the God they believe is the only true God. 

The Islamic worldview is a theistic worldview because it holds that only one 



all-powerful creator God exists, but it is not a biblical worldview. Islam’s views 

about God and His Son Jesus are very different from biblical Christianity’s 

views. Islam’s views about the nature of people as God’s image-bearers are 

also unlike biblical Christianity’s views. These and other differences between 

Christianity and Islam are important to understand as we study how Islam has 

spread throughout the world, sometimes peacefully and sometimes by force. 

In the lessons of Unit 3, you will explore the Islamic views in each category 

of beliefs common to all worldviews. Then you will compare the beliefs of the 

Islamic worldview with the beliefs of the Christian worldview that you studied 

in the lessons of Unit 2. Before you begin your comparative study, it’s important 

to understand a little of Islam’s history. In Lesson 17, you will learn about 

Muhammad: Who was he? How did he become 

the founder of Islam? What basic message did 

he preach? And you will learn some basic facts 

about Islam: How quickly did it grow? How did it 

spread around the world? How far did it spread? 

What does Islam look like in the world today? 

As an aid to discussing the Getting Started questions below, you may wish 

to WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases 17a-17d and BLM Definitions 

17a-17d at appropriate times during the discussion. 

Have students turn to Key People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 6. 

Holy 

Bible 

3 



In the lessons of Unit 3, you will explore the Islamic views in each category of beliefs common to all 

worldviews. Then you will compare the beliefs of the Islamic worldview with the beliefs of the Christian 

worldview that you studied in the lessons of Unit 2. Before you begin your comparative study, it’s 

important to understand a little of Islam’s 

history. In Lesson 17, you will learn 

about Muhammad: Who was he? How 

did he become the founder of Islam? 

What basic message did he preach? 

And you will learn some basic facts 

about Islam: How quickly did it grow? 

How did it spread around the world? 

How far did it spread? What does Islam 

look like in the world today? 

Holy 

Bible 

Topic 1 

Who Was Muhammad? 

Muhammad’s Childhood: Muhammad was born in the year 570 A.D. His name means praised. At the 

time of his birth, Christianity was over 500 years old and had spread to many parts of the world, including 

Europe, Africa, parts of Asia, and throughout the Middle East, including the Arabian peninsula. 

Muhammad was born in the city of Mecca on the western side of the Arabian peninsula. His early life 

was one of tragedy and struggle. His father died before he was born, and his mother died when he 

was only six years old. He was placed in the care of his grandfather, who also soon died. Then he was 

taken in by his uncle, Abu Talib, who raised him until he was a young adult. 

Muhammad’s First Marriage and Business: Although Muhammad belonged to a very powerful 

Arabic tribe called the Quraysh, he lived a simple life until he was 25 years old. Then, in 595 A.D., he 

married a wealthy 40-year-old business 

woman named Khadijah. She owned 

many large trade caravans whose camels 

and riders traveled hundreds of miles 

through the Arabian desert to buy, sell, 

and trade with merchants. Her caravans 

traveled as far north as the modern-day 

country of Syria and as far south as the 

modern-day country of Y e men (see maps 

on page 4). 

Muhammad worked with his wife in this 

very profi table trading business and 

served as her representative or agent on 

many of the trading journeys. Through 

Khadijah, Muhammad was introduced to 

Khadijah and the Arab Traders 


3 

Lesson 17 

KEY PEOPLE, PLACES, AND DEFINITIONS 

6 


What is a theistic worldview? 

What are the three great theistic worldviews and religions today? 

When and where did Islam emerge as the world's third great theistic 

worldview and religion? 

Who is considered the founder of Islam? 

On what did Muhammad base his teachings of Islam? 

Muhammad: (Arabic—praised one) The 

founding prophet of Islam 


theistic worldview religion founded in 622 A.D. 


Muslim: (Derived from Islam) One who 

submits 

Qur’an: (Arabic—the recitation) The holy 

book of Islam said to contain Allah’s revelations 

to Muhammad 

Mecca: The business and religious center 

of polytheistic Arabia and the center of Islam 

today 



Khadijah: (Arabic—early one) A wealthy 

tradeswoman, Muhammad’s first wife, and 

Islam’s first convert 

The Ka’aba: (Arabic—cube) The cubeshaped 

shrine in Mecca designated as the 

house of Allah 

Hajj: (Arabic—pilgrimage) The annual 

religious journey Muslims make to Mecca 

Surah: An Arabic word used exclusively for 

the chapters of the Qur’an 

Allah: (Arabic—God) The Islamic name for 

God as found in the Qur’an 

What does the word Islam mean? 

What does the word Muslim mean? 

Where were the revelations Muhammad is said to have received 

recorded? 

Approximately what percentage of the world's population today is 

Muslim? 

Have you observed the presence of Islam in our community? In what 

ways have you seen or identified this presence? 

Close to the beginning of our study of A World of Worldviews, in 

Lesson 2, you were introduced to the basic differences in Judaism's, 

Christianity's, and Islam's view of God. What are those very important 

differences? 

As we study the teachings of Islam, what must we always use to 

evaluate them? Why? 

6 

Muslim School Boys in Indonesia Studying the Qur’an 



7



topic 1. who was muhammad? 


Tragic Childhood: Muhammad’s early life in the Arabian Peninsula is a story of 

tragedy and struggle. He was born around 570 A.D. His father, Abd-Allah (Abdullah), 

died before he was born. Allah was a part of his father’s name because that was 

the name of the primary deity of his clan. Amina, Muhammad’s mother, followed 

an old Arab custom of giving the infant to a Bedouin woman to be nursed for a 

significant period of time. When Muhammad was six years old, his mother died. 

Being orphaned in sixth century Mecca presented grave difficulties. Abu Talib, the 

head of the impoverished Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe and Muhammad’s uncle, 

was given charge of the boy. Muhammad grew up amid violent conflicts among 

individuals and tribes. 

Marriage Marred by Death: One of the ways a person in Muhammad’s position 

could gain wealth and power was to marry well. A forty-year-old businesswoman 

named Khadijah decided to marry the twenty-five-year-old Muhammad if he proved 

himself responsible by acting as her agent on a caravan to Syria. Khadijah had been 

married twice before, but she was Muhammad’s only wife until her death. They 

raised four daughters, but their two sons died in infancy. In spite of his influential 

wife, Muhammad struggled to gain respect from the merchants in Mecca who 

excluded him from their inner circle. Possibly this is one of the factors that led him 

to seek spiritual help. 

Religious Quest: Muhammad found Arab religious life more troubling than helpful. 

The Christians of the Roman and Byzantine empires dominated much of the world 

and had gained converts in Arabia. Even Khadijah’s cousin, Waraqah, had become 

a Christian. There were also wealthy Jewish tribes in the Arabian Peninsula, yet the 

main religion of the country and the faith of Muhammad’s tribe was idol worship. 

Mecca was the center of this polytheistic religion. The pagans prayed facing Mecca 

and traveled to Mecca for annual pilgrimages. Arriving in Mecca, they would enter 

an arena (Masjid) where they circled around an ancient stone building that was 45 

feet high, 33 feet wide, and 50 feet long. This building was called the Ka'aba and 

was filled with idols. A black stone was visible from the outside of the Ka'aba like 

a cornerstone. The pilgrims would kiss the stone or meteorite in veneration. About 

one mile away from the Ka'aba, at the Wadi Mina, the pilgrims would threw rocks 

at a pillar that represented the devil. They also believed in a lunar month of fasting 

and giving alms to the poor. 

When Muhammad seized control of Mecca, he destroyed all the idols inside the 

Ka'aba, except the revered black stone. However, he preserved many of the pagan 

practices, and today they remain a significant part of the Islamic monotheistic rituals. 

This certainly made conversion to Islam easier for the people of Muhammad’s 

day. However, many of today’s Muslims have trouble following these rituals while 

still keeping pace with a highly technological society. The vast majority of Muslims 

also live far from Saudi Arabia where they must go for their pilgrimage, which often 

becomes a great financial burden to them. 

The Qur'an: Muhammad’s distressing situation culminated in reported spiritual 



experiences. For reasons of his own, Muhammad began to meditate in wilderness 

caves. He claimed that during one of these times of meditation he was visited by 

a spiritual being who commanded him to recite a few sentences. Later, though, 

Muhammad believed he was being demon possessed and tried to kill himself. Still 

later, he claimed to have been rescued by another spiritual appearance, and this 

experience assured him of his prophethood. 

According to Muslim history, Muhammad continued to receive messages. He recited 

them to his followers, who wrote them on any objects available such as rocks or 

bones. These messages came as Muhammad had episodes during which he would 

seem to have seizures. In the midst of these spells, Muhammad spoke as if Allah 

were speaking instead of him. He claimed that his spiritual guide, whom he later 

identified as the angel Gabriel, funneled messages through his poetic revelations. 

The Qur'an makes it clear that most Christians and Jews of that time believed 

Muhammad's behavior was either insane or demonic. At first the sayings were short, 

but later in Muhammad's life they became quite lengthy. 1 


Reference 

1 

Fisher, M. J. A Topical Study 

of the Qur'an From a Christian 

Perspective. The author has 

given permission for this E-book 

to be accessed, copied, shared, 

quoted, and used free of charge 

as long as no part of the text 

is changed or misrepresented 

in any way and proper credit 

is given to the book when it is 

copied or quoted. 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT pp. 3-6). 

 

Have students turn to Topic 1. Have them read the title. Have them read Muhammad's 

Childhood (SWT p. 3). 

Muhammad’s Childhood: Muhammad was born in the year 570 A.D. His name 

means praised. At the time of his birth, Christianity was over 500 years old and 

had spread to many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, parts of Asia, 

and throughout the Middle East, including the Arabian Peninsula. 

Muhammad was born in the city of Mecca on the western side of the Arabian 

Peninsula. His early life was one of tragedy and struggle. His father died before 

he was born, and his mother died when he was only six years old. He was placed 

in the care of his grandfather, who also soon died. Then he was taken in by his 

uncle, Abu Talib, who raised him until he was a young adult. 

As an aid to discussing Muhammad's Childhood, you may wish to WRITE OR 

DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrase 17e and BLM Definition 17e at appropriate 

times during the discussion. Have students turn to Key People, Places, and 

Definitions on SWT page 6. 

3 















Holy 

Bible 

Topic 1 




















on page 4). 








3 


When was Muhammad born? 

How old was Christianity when Muhammad was born? 

Into what parts of the world had Christianity already spread? 

Where was Muhammad born? Where is Mecca? 

Locate Mecca and Arabia on a World Map or Map of the Middle East. Have 

students refer to the maps on page 4 in their Worktexts. Briefly explain the 

renaming of Arabia to Saudi Arabia in 1932 (see Teacher's Notes this page). 

In the 1500s the central south 

east region of Arabia (the Najd), 

which includes the modern-day 

capital of Riyadh, was ruled by 

no one. The Najd was isolated, 

arid, and barren. It was occupied 

by Bedouin tribes who 

lived there in more or less total 

independence and with little 

contact with the outside world. 

The Najd became the home 

of the house or family of Saud 

that eventually conquered all 

of Arabia and renamed it Saudi 

Arabia in 1932. 


9




What was unusual and tragic about Muhammad's childhood? 

Have students read Muhammad's First Marriage and Business (SWT pp. 3-4). 

3 















Holy 

Bible 

Topic 1 




















on page 4). 








3 

Lesson 17 

some of the most important people of Mecca. As he traveled throughout Arabia, he became acquainted 

with the religions and politics of his country. Although most Arabians he encountered along the trade 

routes were polytheistic idol worshipers, he also encountered small communities of Jews and Christians. 

What Muhammad saw and learned about Arabia’s religions affected him deeply and led him on the 

spiritual journey that eventually gave birth to Islam. 

SAUDI ARABIA 

4 

 

Muhammad’s First Marriage and Business: 

Although Muhammad belonged to a very powerful 

Arabic tribe called the Quraysh, he lived a simple 

life until he was 25 years old. Then, in 595 A.D., 

he married a wealthy 40-year-old businesswoman 

named Khadijah. She owned many large trade caravans 

whose camels and riders traveled hundreds 

of miles through the Arabian desert to buy, sell, and trade with merchants. Her 

caravans traveled as far north as the modern-day country of Syria and as far 

south as the modern-day country of Yemen (see maps on page 4). 

Muhammad worked with his wife in this very profitable trading business and 

served as her representative or agent on many of the trading journeys. Through 

Khadijah, Muhammad was introduced to some of the most important people 

of Mecca. As he traveled throughout Arabia, he became acquainted with the 

religions and politics of his country. Although most Arabs he encountered along 

the trade routes were polytheistic idol worshipers, he also encountered small 

communities of Jews and Christians. What Muhammad saw and learned about 

Arabia’s religions affected him deeply and led him on the spiritual journey that 

eventually gave birth to Islam. 

Caravan Trade Route of Ancient Arabia 

Saudi Arabia and Surrounding Nations Today 

Muhammad’s Spiritual Journey: The city of Mecca was an important trade center. It was the resting 

place for trade caravans traveling north and south through Arabia. Mecca was also the center of 

worship for Arabia’s polytheistic religion. Inside the city was a cube-shaped shrine or building called 

the Ka’aba, meaning cube. It was 45 feet high, 33 feet wide, and 50 feet long. Inside was a statue of 

the moon god, Hubal, the main god the Arabians 

worshiped. Around the outside of the Ka’aba 

stood 360 other idols that the Arabians also 

worshiped. 

Each year the polytheistic Arabians from different 

tribes made a hajj—a religious journey or 

pilgrimage—to Mecca to honor their gods. The 

pilgrims entered the large arena that surrounded 

the Ka’aba and walked around it in circles seven 

times. On the eastern corner of the Ka’aba 

was a black stone that they believed fell from 

heaven, possibly as a gift or sign from a god. 

As the pilgrims passed the stone, they gave it 

The Ka’aba and Pilgrims at the Mecca Grand Mosque 

SAUDI ARABIA 

4 




As an aid to discussing Muhammad's First Marriage and Business, you may 

wish to WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases 17f-g and BLM Definitions 

17f-g at appropriate times during the discussion. Have students turn to Key 

People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 6. 


To what Arab tribe did Muhammad belong? 

What unusual event happened in Muhammad's life when he was 25? 

Who was Khadijah (ka-dee-zha)? 

What was the major trade route for Khadijah's caravans? 

What was Muhammad's responsibility in his wife's business? 

Whom did Muhammad meet on his caravan journeys? 

What did Muhammad's caravan journeys teach him about Arabia? 



Locate Yemen and Syria on a World Map or Map of the Middle East. Have 

students refer to the maps on page 4 in their Worktexts. 


Have students read Muhammad's Spiritual Journey (SWT pp. 4-5). 

 

Muhammad’s Spiritual Journey: The city of Mecca 

was an important trade center. It was the resting place 

for trade caravans traveling north and south through 

Arabia. Mecca was also the center of worship for 

Arabia’s polytheistic religion. Inside the city was a 

cube-shaped shrine or building called the Ka’aba, 

meaning cube. It was 45 feet high, 33 feet wide, and 

50 feet long. Inside was a statue of the moon god, Hubal, the main god the 

Arabs worshiped. Around the outside of the Ka’aba stood 360 other idols that 

the Arabs also worshiped. 

Each year the polytheistic Arabs from different tribes made a hajj—a religious 

journey or pilgrimage—to Mecca to honor their gods. The pilgrims entered the 

large arena that surrounded the Ka’aba and walked around it in circles seven 

times. On the eastern corner of the Ka’aba was a black stone 

that they believed fell from heaven, possibly as a gift or sign 

from a god. As the pilgrims passed the stone, they gave it 

special honor by kissing it. Next, the pilgrims traveled about 

one mile from the Ka’aba to a pillar that represented the devil. 

There they threw rocks at the pillar. 

For some people, including Muhammad, the annual pilgrimage 

to Mecca revealed just how divided the Arab tribes were. Each 

tribe not only worshiped its own special god, but each also 

had its own customs and laws. These religious and political 

differences caused major strife among the tribes and resulted 

in tribal arguments and wars. 

5 

Lesson 17 

some of the most important people of Mecca. As he traveled throughout Arabia, he became acquainted 

with the religions and politics of his country. Although most Arabians he encountered along the trade 

routes were polytheistic idol worshipers, he also encountered small communities of Jews and Christians. 

What Muhammad saw and learned about Arabia’s religions affected him deeply and led him on the 

spiritual journey that eventually gave birth to Islam. 


SAUDI ARABIA 


Muhammad’s Spiritual Journey: The city of Mecca was an important trade center. It was the resting 

place for trade caravans traveling north and south through Arabia. Mecca was also the center of 

worship for Arabia’s polytheistic religion. Inside the city was a cube-shaped shrine or building called 

the Ka’aba, meaning cube. It was 45 feet high, 33 feet wide, and 50 feet long. Inside was a statue of 

the moon god, Hubal, the main god the Arabians 

worshiped. Around the outside of the Ka’aba 

stood 360 other idols that the Arabians also 

worshiped. 

Each year the polytheistic Arabians from different 

tribes made a hajj—a religious journey or 

pilgrimage—to Mecca to honor their gods. The 

pilgrims entered the large arena that surrounded 

the Ka’aba and walked around it in circles seven 

times. On the eastern corner of the Ka’aba 

was a black stone that they believed fell from 

heaven, possibly as a gift or sign from a god. 

As the pilgrims passed the stone, they gave it The Ka’aba and Pilgrims at the Mecca Grand Mosque 

4 



special honor by kissing it. Next, the pilgrims traveled about one 

mile from the Ka’aba to a pillar that represented the devil. There 

they threw rocks at the pillar. 

For some people, including Muhammad, the annual pilgrimage 

to Mecca revealed just how divided the Arabian tribes were. 

Each tribe not only worshiped its own special god, but each 

also had its own customs and laws. These religious and political 

differences caused major strife among the tribes and resulted in 

tribal arguments and wars. 

When Muhammad was 40 years old, he began retreating to a cave in 

a mountain near Mecca. Here he spent time meditating and praying 

about the problems he saw within and among the polytheistic 

Arabian tribes. During one of his retreats for meditation, he is said 

to have been visited by the angel Gabriel, who commanded him 

to recite a few sentences. This was the first of many revelations 

Muhammad claimed to have received over the next twenty-three 

years. These recitations were eventually written down by friends 

of Muhammad and compiled in a book called the Qur’an or Koran. 

The word Qur’an means recitation. The Qur’an contains 114 

chapters or surahs, 

but no individual 

books as the Bible 

does. Each surah 

is divided into several verses. Surah 33:9, for example, 

simply refers to the 33 rd chapter and 9 th verse. We will 

explore the Qur’an in more detail in Lesson 18. 

At fi rst, Muhammad was not sure about the source of 

the revelations he received in the cave. He told his wife, 

Khadijah, that perhaps he had been possessed by a 

demon. He was not sure that the messages he was hearing 

were really from the supreme or one high God, whom 

the Arabians called Allah. Muhammad’s wife, however, 

assured him that the messages were from Allah, and she 

encouraged him to teach others the things he was hearing 

and reciting. Soon other close family members, including 

his adopted son Zaid and a young cousin, accepted 

Muhammad’s recitations as truth from Allah. Within a 

short time, about 100 people from Mecca had accepted 

Muhammad’s teachings and submitted to them. 

Muhammad’s Early Teaching in Mecca 

4 


5 

When Muhammad was 40 years old, he began retreating to a cave in a mountain 

near Mecca. Here he spent time meditating and praying about the problems he 

saw within and among the polytheistic Arab tribes. During one of his retreats 

for meditation, he is said to have been visited by the angel Gabriel, who commanded 

him to recite a few sentences. This was the first of many revelations 

Muhammad claimed to have received over the next twenty-three years. These 

recitations were eventually written down by friends of Muhammad and compiled 

in a book called the Qur’an or Koran. The word Qur’an means recitation. The 

Qur’an contains 114 chapters or surahs, but no individual 

books as the Bible does. Each surah is divided into several 

verses. Surah 33:9, for example, simply refers to the 33 rd 

chapter and 9 th verse. We will explore the Qur’an in more 

detail in Lesson 18. 

At first, Muhammad was not sure about the source of 

the revelations he received in the cave. He told his wife, 

Khadijah, that perhaps he had been possessed by a demon. 

He was not sure that the messages he was hearing 


11



Lesson 17 


Muhammad: (Arabic—praised one) The Khadijah: (Arabic—early one) A wealthy 

founding prophet of Islam 

tradeswoman, Muhammad’s first wife, and 

Islam’s first convert 


theistic worldview religion founded in 622 A.D. The Ka’aba: (Arabic—cube) The cubeshaped 

shrine in Mecca designated as the 


house of Allah 

Muslim: (Derived from Islam) One who 

submits 

Hajj: (Arabic—pilgrimage) The annual 

religious journey Muslims make to Mecca 

Qur’an: (Arabic—the recitation) The holy 

book of Islam said to contain Allah’s revelations Surah: An Arabic word used exclusively for 

to Muhammad 

the chapters of the Qur’an 

Mecca: The business and religious center Allah: (Arabic—God) The Islamic name for 

of polytheistic Arabia and the center of Islam God as found in the Qur’an 

today 



Muslim School Boys in Indonesia Studying the Qur’an 

6 


6 

were really from the supreme or one high God, whom the Arabs called Allah. 

Muhammad’s wife, however, assured him that the messages were from Allah, 

and she encouraged him to teach others the things he was hearing and reciting. 

Soon other close family members, including his adopted son Zaid and a 

young cousin, accepted Muhammad’s recitations as truth from Allah. Within a 

short time, about 100 people from Mecca had accepted Muhammad’s teachings 

and submitted to them. 

As an aid to discussing Muhammad's Spiritual Journey, you may wish to WRITE 

OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases 17d and h-k and BLM Definitions 17d 

and h-k at appropriate times during the discussion. Have students turn to Key 

People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 6. 


What category of worldview did the people of Arabia hold during this 

time of Muhammad's life? 

Why was the city of Mecca such an important city? 

What was the Ka'aba? How large was it? 

What was inside the Ka'aba? What surrounded the ka'aba? 

What kind of journey did the people of Arabia make once each year? 

What was this pilgrimage called? What was its purpose? 

What kinds of religious activities did the people engage in while in 

Mecca? 

Why do you think the people kissed the black stone? 

During his caravan travels and as people traveled to Mecca each 

year for the hajj, what did Muhammad come to understand about 

relationships among the tribes of Arabia? 

When Muhammad was 40 years old, what did he begin to do? Why? 

What happened during one of Muhammad's meditations in the cave? 

In the beginning, from where did Muhammad think the revelations 

were coming? 

Who convinced Muhammad that the revelations were not demonic? 

From whom did Khadijah believe Muhammad was receiving his 

revelations? 

For the polytheistic Arabs, who was Allah? 

Who is said to have spoken Allah's messages to Muhammad? 

For how many years is Muhammad said to have received revelations? 

How were Muhammad's revelations preserved for the future? 

What is the Qur'an? What is a surah? 

How many surahs are in the Qur'an? 

Who were the first people to accept Muhammad's words as revelation 

from Allah? 

How do you think most of the people of Mecca and Arabia responded 

to Muhammad's messages? Why? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases and Definitions 17a-17k. Have 

students locate Key People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 6. Summarize 

Topic 1 by reviewing and discussing these people, places, and definitions. 




7-8) and Thinking About It (SWT pp. 9-10). If you prefer, create comprehension, 





topic 2. what message did muhammad receive and teach? 


The Main Message: The messages Muhammad claimed to receive included three 

main points: (1) There is no God but Allah, and it is to Allah that all people must 

submit; (2) All people will one day be judged based on whether they have accepted 

or rejected Allah as the only God; and (3) Muhammad is Allah's prophet, the "seal" 

or last of all prophets to whom Allah would ever speak. Today, the confessional 

statement or shahada that makes a person a Muslim is this: "There is no God but 

God (Allah), and Muhammad is the messenger (prophet) of God." 

Decade of Rejection: The Qur'an has a certain poetic quality that Muslims believe 

is miraculously beautiful. Even so, the vast majority of Muhammad’s contemporaries 

did not believe Muhammad’s verses were extraordinary since the Arabian Peninsula 

was famous for its many poets and mystic seers. This fact is attested to in the 

Qur'an itself. 

Aside from the writing style, the content of the message was offensive to the idol 

worshipers of Mecca. Muhammad was reciting verses that announced that Allah 

was the one and only deity. His message condemned idol worship upon which the 

Meccan economy relied. 

As a result, Muhammad gained a very small following in the first ten years of his 

self-proclaimed prophethood. Even his tribe turned against him, unheard of in an 

age when clan loyalty was the foundation of the culture. 

When Muhammad sought to transfer his movement to a town called At-Taif, the 

leaders ended the negotiations with such strong opposition that they encouraged 

the residents of the community to throw stones at Muhammad as he retreated. 

Holy War: The Meccans were plotting to take Muhammad’s life, so relocation to a 

different place was essential. Negotiations with the town of Medina went much better 

than those at At-Taif. Medina was a prosperous agricultural center that struggled with 

tribal friction. Some in Medina hoped that the presence of the Muslims would bring 

a spiritual sense of peace, and Muhammad was invited to come as an arbitrator of 

disputes. Just before the Meccans tried to execute their plan to kill Muhammad, he 

and his small group of believers fled to Medina where his community of followers 

began to grow in influence and power. The first day of this move was July 1, 622 

A.D. Muslims cite this date as the first day of the Islamic calendar. 

Shortly after Muhammad and his followers' migration to Medina, the Islamic religion 

turned to violence as a means of dealing with their enemies. Muhammad proclaimed 


13



verses that allowed Muslims to fight for Islam. They began by targeting the Meccans. 

The Muslims raided caravans in the name of Allah, eventually leading to formal battles 

between them and the armed forces of Mecca. The fighting expanded to include 

those who supported Mecca. The Muslims not only began to acquire riches from 

the spoils of war, they also began to enjoy other successes. The fact that they had 

become a military force unified their ranks and increased their membership. Their 

influence over the tribes of Medina grew as their enemies began to fear them. 

For example, there were three Jewish tribes in Medina. All three rejected Muhammad 

as a genuine prophet in the tradition of the biblical prophets. This must have been 

a great disappointment to Muhammad as the Qur'an claims to be an extension of 

the Bible. There is no evidence that they took military action against the Muslims, 

but Muhammad attacked them one at a time. The first two, Banu Qaynuqah and 

Nadir, were forced into exile. The Islamic forces confiscated their homes, lands, and 

rich orchards. The last remaining Jewish tribe in Medina was the Banu Qurayzah. 

Muhammad’s forces surrounded the Banu Qurayzah in a successful siege. Upon 

surrendering all their weapons, the Jewish tribe received a sentence severe even 

for those times. The Muslims executed all the Jewish men, somewhere between 

600 and 900, and the women and children became the slaves of their Muslim 

conquerors or were sold. Muhammad was in charge of distributing their riches. He 

also took Rayhana, one of the widows whose husband had just been executed, 

as a concubine. 

The soldiers of Mecca met the Muslim forces in battles at Badr and Uhud. At the Battle 

of Uhud in 625 A.D., Muhammad himself was wounded in the head so severely that 

a mistaken cry went out that he was dead. The battle was a draw, but for the Muslims 

to have faced the Meccans and survived was, in a sense, a kind of victory. 

Eventually, Muslim forces became strong enough that Mecca agreed to a peace 

treaty with Muhammad in March 628 A.D. Called the Treaty of Al-Hudaybiyah, it 

was to have insured peace for ten years. The mistake the Meccans made in the 

treaty was to allow Muhammad the freedom to attack neighboring tribes who were 

not protected by the truce. Muhammad also allowed raids to continue on Meccan 

caravans by groups whom he claimed were not members of his forces. They were 

allegedly operating beyond Muhammad’s control. 

The treaty was broken only two years after it was ratified. There are differing reasons 

how the truce was ended, but the outcome is history. Muhammad claimed that 

the Meccans had broken the treaty. Thus his Islamic forces invaded Mecca and 

conquered it in January 630 A.D. 

Following Muhammad’s death in 632 A.D., the Islamic military victories in northern 

Africa, Europe, and the Middle East added to the spread of Islam as did international 

trade with Asian countries. The Muslim’s use of violence against their enemies as 

a part of their religious duty called jihad or holy war is still widely practiced around 

the world into the twenty-first century, both for self-defense and to enhance Islamic 

power and influence. The question Muslims face is how and when jihad should be 

practiced. 

Muhammad’s Success: Muhammad had tremendous wealth and power at the 

age of sixty. His rise to prominence in Medina and the Muslim’s eventual victory 



over Mecca brought Muhammad into complete control over an expanding domain. 

He was revered as the voice of Allah. He controlled the fate and property of those 

who opposed Islam. Many Jewish and Christian communities were allowed some 

freedom of worship as long as they paid taxes to Muhammad, submitted to Islamic 

tyranny, and stopped sharing their faith to evangelize others. 


The respect given to Muhammad was so great that even to this day his opinions on 

rules for conduct, dress, daily habits, and even beard style are held as examples to 

follow around the world. Muhammad’s opinions and the history of his rise to power 

are recorded in writings called the Hadith. The Hadith is not one volume but rather a 

large number of texts compiled several hundred years after the time of Muhammad. 

The most respected of these is the collection called Sahih Al-Bukhari. It details the 

rules Muhammad gave for daily life, boasts of Muhammad’s exploits, and offers the 

faithful Muslim a guide for daily life. 

For one who had to prove himself worthy to marry a wealthy widow, Muhammad 

eventually had numerous female relationships. Following the death of Khadijah, 

Muhammad had approximately sixteen wives as well as slave girls who were captured 

in battle. At his death, Muhammad had nine wives still living and two slave girls. Two 

of his more controversial marriages were to Ayisha and Zainab. Ayisha was wed to 

Muhammad when she was only six years old with the marriage being consummated 

when she was still playing with toys at the age of nine. At the time, Muhammad was 

fifty-three years old. Zainab was his adopted son’s ex-wife. Muslim history seems 

clear that Zainab was divorced because Muhammad desired his son’s bride. 

Criticisms of Muhammad’s behavior were often countered by Muhammad’s 

proclamations of Qur'an verses. In this way, it was as if Allah defended Muhammad’s 

conduct. Verses were also spoken by Muhammad to instruct his wives and the general 

public on how they must behave toward him. Muslims believe these commands and 

all of the verses spoken by Muhammad were collected in the text of the Qur'an. 2 

Reference 

2 

Fisher, A Topical Study of 

the Qur'an From a Christian 

Perspective. 



students' understanding. 

 


What do you think was the main message Muhammad claimed to 

have heard from Allah? 

Have students read The Main Message (SWT p. 11). 

The Main Message: Muhammad is said to have received many messages 

from God over many years. But the main message he heard and recited was 

this: There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the prophet of God. In fact, 

Muhammad believed that Allah had revealed that he, Muhammad, was the 

seal or last of all the prophets to whom Allah would speak. There would be no 

prophets after Muhammad, and the messages he received would be the very 

last messages God would ever reveal. 

11 

Topic 2 

What Message Did Muhammad Receive and Teach? 

The Main Message: Muhammad is said to have received many messages from God over many years. 

But the main message he heard and recited was this: There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the 

prophet of God. In fact, Muhammad believed that Allah had revealed that he, Muhammad, was the seal 

or last of all the prophets to whom Allah would speak. There would be no prophets after Muhammad, 

and the messages he received would be the very last messages God would ever reveal. 

The People’s Response: Now think for a minute about 

how most people in Mecca would have responded to 

Muhammad’s message. Remember that the Arabians 

were polytheists. They worshipped not only Hubal, the 

moon god, but they also worshiped 360 other gods that 

stood around the Ka’aba. They believed these gods 

helped and protected them. And when thousands of 

pilgrims from all over the country made the annual hajj 

to worship at the Ka’aba, they bought food and other 

supplies from the shop owners in Mecca. Perhaps they 

paid inn keepers, and no doubt some bought idols from 

the silver and goldsmiths who crafted them. For Mecca, 

polytheism was good for business and the economy. 

Now imagine that they suddenly hear this contradictory 

message from Muhammad: “There is no God but Allah! 

You must repent and turn from worshiping your idols and 

turn to Allah. Oh, and by the way, the Ka’aba belongs only 

to Allah and to none of the other gods.” 

How do you think the people would respond to 

Muhammad’s new message? Except for Muhammad’s 

The Ka’aba—Islam’s Most Holy Site 

immediate family and a few friends, everyone in Mecca 

rejected it. In fact, leaders of his own tribe warned him not to preach it. Muhammad’s message was a 

great threat to the Arabians’ polytheistic way of life. His message threatened not only their lifestyle, but 

also their income. The people of Mecca began to accuse the new prophet of witchcraft and lying. They 

even accused him of copying his ideas from the Jews and Christians who were scattered throughout 

Arabia. 

During these diffi cult years of opposition to his message, many changes were occurring in Muhammad’s 

family. In 620 A.D. when Muhammad was 50 years old, his wife Khadijah died. A few weeks later 

Abu Talib, the uncle who had raised him, also died. Two months after that, Muhammad married his 

second wife, a widow of one of his new followers. He also became engaged to a six-year-old girl, 

whom he married when she was just nine. She was the daughter of one of his close friends. Later in 

his life, Muhammad married many more women because he believed that Allah had given him special 



11 


15




What was the main message Muhammad claimed to have heard 

from Allah? 

How do you think most of the people of Mecca responded to this 

message? Why? 

In Islam, Muhammad is called the "seal of the prophets." What does 

this mean? 

What other prophets in history do you think Islam accepted? (These 

will be discussed in later lessons, but include Moses and Jesus.) 

Have students read The People's Response (SWT pp. 11-12). 

11 


Topic 2 

What Message Did Muhammad Receive and Teach? 

The Main Message: Muhammad is said to have received many messages from God over many years. 

But the main message he heard and recited was this: There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the 

prophet of God. In fact, Muhammad believed that Allah had revealed that he, Muhammad, was the seal 

or last of all the prophets to whom Allah would speak. There would be no prophets after Muhammad, 

and the messages he received would be the very last messages God would ever reveal. 

The People’s Response: Now think for a minute about 

how most people in Mecca would have responded to 

Muhammad’s message. Remember that the Arabians 

were polytheists. They worshipped not only Hubal, the 

moon god, but they also worshiped 360 other gods that 

stood around the Ka’aba. They believed these gods 

helped and protected them. And when thousands of 

pilgrims from all over the country made the annual hajj 

to worship at the Ka’aba, they bought food and other 

supplies from the shop owners in Mecca. Perhaps they 

paid inn keepers, and no doubt some bought idols from 

the silver and goldsmiths who crafted them. For Mecca, 

polytheism was good for business and the economy. 

Now imagine that they suddenly hear this contradictory 

message from Muhammad: “There is no God but Allah! 

You must repent and turn from worshiping your idols and 

turn to Allah. Oh, and by the way, the Ka’aba belongs only 

to Allah and to none of the other gods.” 

How do you think the people would respond to 

Muhammad’s new message? Except for Muhammad’s 

The Ka’aba—Islam’s Most Holy Site 

immediate family and a few friends, everyone in Mecca 

rejected it. In fact, leaders of his own tribe warned him not to preach it. Muhammad’s message was a 

great threat to the Arabians’ polytheistic way of life. His message threatened not only their lifestyle, but 

also their income. The people of Mecca began to accuse the new prophet of witchcraft and lying. They 

even accused him of copying his ideas from the Jews and Christians who were scattered throughout 

Arabia. 

During these difficult years of opposition to his message, many changes were occurring in Muhammad’s 

family. In 620 A.D. when Muhammad was 50 years old, his wife Khadijah died. A few weeks later 

Abu Talib, the uncle who had raised him, also died. Two months after that, Muhammad married his 

second wife, a widow of one of his new followers. He also became engaged to a six-year-old girl, 

whom he married when she was just nine. She was the daughter of one of his close friends. Later in 

his life, Muhammad married many more women because he believed that Allah had given him special 

 

The People’s Response: Now think for a minute about how 

most people in Mecca would have responded to Muhammad’s 

message. Remember that the Arabs were polytheists. 

They worshipped not only Hubal, the moon god, but 

they also worshiped 360 other gods that stood around the 

Ka'aba. They believed these gods helped and protected 

them. And when thousands of pilgrims from all over the 

country made the annual hajj to worship at the Ka’aba, they 

bought food and other supplies from the shop owners in 

Mecca. Perhaps they paid inn keepers, and no doubt some 

bought idols from the silver and goldsmiths who crafted 

them. For Mecca, polytheism was good for business and the economy. 


11 

Now imagine that they suddenly hear this contradictory message from Muhammad: 

“There is no God but Allah! You must repent and turn from worshiping 

your idols and turn to Allah. Oh, and by the way, the Ka’aba belongs only to 

Allah and to none of the other gods.” 

How do you think the people would respond to Muhammad’s new message? 

Except for Muhammad’s immediate family and a few friends, everyone in 

Mecca rejected it. In fact, leaders of his own tribe warned him not to preach 

it. Muhammad’s message was a great threat to the Arabs’ polytheistic way of 

life. His message threatened not only their lifestyle, but also their income. The 

people of Mecca began to accuse the new prophet of witchcraft and lying. They 

even accused him of copying his ideas from the Jews and Christians who were 

scattered throughout Arabia. 

During these difficult years of opposition to his message, many changes were 

occurring in Muhammad’s family. In 620 A.D. when Muhammad was 50 years 

old, his wife Khadijah died. A few weeks later Abu Talib, the uncle who had 

raised him, also died. Two months after that, Muhammad married his second 

wife, a widow of one of his new followers. He also became engaged to a sixyear-old 

girl, whom he married when she was just nine. She was the daughter 

of one of his close friends. Later in his life, Muhammad married many more 

women because he believed that Allah had given him special permission to 

do so (Qur’an, Surah 33:50). However, he told other men that Allah had given 

them permission to marry only four wives (Qur’an, Surah 4:3). 





What was Muhammad's main message to the people of Mecca and 

Arabia? 

How did most of the people respond to this message? Why? 

What changes occurred in Muhammad's family during the years 

people were persecuting him because of his message about Allah? 

What was unusual about Muhammad's marriages? 

What special privilege did Muhammad say Allah allowed for him but 

not for other Arab men? 

What do you think Muhammad had to do because of all the persecution 

he was suffering in Mecca? 

Have students read The Flight From Mecca (SWT p. 12). 

 

The Flight From Mecca: The opposition in Mecca to 

Muhammad’s message became so violent that he and 

about 100 new Muslim families fled the city for their safety. 

In the year 622 A.D., two years after Khadijah’s death, 

Muhammad and his followers traveled north to the city of 

Yathrib. Yathrib is called Medina today. Muslims call this 

flight from Mecca to Medina the hijrah. In Arabic, hijrah 

means flight or migration. 

For all Muslims, September 622 A.D. is an important date. 

Not only is it the date of the hijrah, it is also considered the date for the true 

beginning of Islam. This date is so important that Muslims created their own 

calendar. Whereas most western nations use calendars that begin with the time 

Jesus was born about 2,000 years ago, Muslim calendars begin with the year 

622 or the year of the hijrah. In the Christian calendar, the year 2009 refers to 

the approximate number of years since the birth of Christ. For Muslims, the 

year 2009 is 1430, the year of the hijrah. 

Lesson 17 

permission to do so (Qur’an, Surah 33:50). However, 

he told other men that Allah had given them permission 

to marry only four wives (Qur’an, Surah 4:3). 



about 100 new Muslim families fled the city for their 

safety. In the year 622 A.D., two years after Khadijah’s 

death, Muhammad and his followers traveled north 

to the city of Ya thrib. Ya thrib is called Medina today. 

Muslims call this flight from Mecca to Medina the hijrah. 

In Arabic, hijrah means flight or migration. 

For all Muslims, September 622 A.D. is an important 

date. Not only is it the date of the hijrah, it is also 

considered the date for the true beginning of Islam. 

This date is so important that Muslims created their own 

calendar. Whereas most western nations use calendars 

that begin with the time Jesus was born about 2,000 

years ago, Muslim calendars begin with the year 622 

Muhammad’s Flight to Medina or the year of the hijrah. In the Christian calendar, the 

year 2009 refers to the approximate number of years 

since the birth of Christ. For Muslims, the year 2009 is 

1430, the year of the hijrah. 

The Return to and Conquest of Mecca: Muhammad and 

his followers lived in Medina for eight years after they fled 

from Mecca. During these years, more and more people 

submitted to Allah and the teachings of Islam. However, 

there was still great resistance in Mecca and throughout 

Arabia to the new religion. One day, however, Muhammad 

reported receiving another revelation from Allah. The new 

message was that Allah was giving Muslims permission 

to fi ght for the cause of Islam (Qur’an, Surah 9:5). With 

this new teaching, Muhammad began building a powerful 

army. In January 630 A.D., Muhammad led an army of 

over 10,000 men south toward Mecca. He took control 

of the city by force. He destroyed all the images and 

idols at the Ka’aba and executed many of the people 

who resisted him. 

Muhammad became the undisputed political and religious 

leader of Mecca. He made Mecca the center of Islam— 

the world’s newest theistic religion. 

Muhammad Conquers Mecca 

12 


12 

As an aid to discussing The Flight From Mecca, you may wish to WRITE OR 

DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases 17l-m and BLM Definitions 17l-m at appropriate 




What very important event occurred in Islam's history in 622 A.D.? 

Why? 

What Arabic word means flight or migration? 

To what city did Muhammad and his followers flee? 

Locate Mecca and Medina on a World Map or Map of the Middle East. Have 

students refer again to the maps on page 4 of the Worktext. 


17




How is the Muslim calendar different from our western calendar? 

What do you think happened to Muhammad and his small group of 

followers after they arrived in Medina or Yathrib? 

Have students read The Return to and Conquest of Mecca (SWT pp. 12-13). 

Lesson 17 

permission to do so (Qur’an, Surah 33:50). However, 

he told other men that Allah had given them permission 

to marry only four wives (Qur’an, Surah 4:3). 



about 100 new Muslim families fl ed the city for their 

safety. In the year 622 A.D., two years after Khadijah’s 

death, Muhammad and his followers traveled north 

to the city of Ya thrib. Ya thrib is called Medina today. 

Muslims call this flight from Mecca to Medina the hijrah. 

In Arabic, hijrah means flight or migration. 

For all Muslims, September 622 A.D. is an important 

date. Not only is it the date of the hijrah, it is also 

considered the date for the true beginning of Islam. 

This date is so important that Muslims created their own 

calendar. Whereas most western nations use calendars 

that begin with the time Jesus was born about 2,000 

years ago, Muslim calendars begin with the year 622 

Muhammad’s Flight to Medina or the year of the hijrah. In the Christian calendar, the 

year 2009 refers to the approximate number of years 

since the birth of Christ. For Muslims, the year 2009 is 

1430, the year of the hijrah. 









to fight for the cause of Islam (Qur’an, Surah 9:5). With 


army. In January 630 A.D., Muhammad led an army of 

over 10,000 men south toward Mecca. He took control 

of the city by force. He destroyed all the images and 

idols at the Ka’aba and executed many of the people 

who resisted him. 

Muhammad became the undisputed political and religious 

leader of Mecca. He made Mecca the center of Islam— 

the world’s newest theistic religion. 

Muhammad Conquers Mecca 

12 


12 

 









to fight for the cause of Islam (Qur’an, Surah 9:5). With 


army. In January 630 A.D., Muhammad led an army of over 10,000 men south 

toward Mecca. He took control of the city by force. He destroyed all the images 

and idols at the Ka’aba and executed many of the people who resisted him. 

Muhammad became the undisputed political and religious leader of Mecca. He 

made Mecca the center of Islam—the world’s newest theistic religion. 

13 


Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca was only the Muhammad’s conquest of Arabia was the first step 

beginning of Islam’s growth. Within one year, the toward Islam’s goal of bringing the entire world 

prophet had forcefully united most of the tribes of under its control. Within two or three generations, 

Arabia under his control and the religion of Islam. Islam became a global power spreading across 

For the polytheistic tribes, there was only one three continents. It absorbed Christian and other 

choice when confronted with Islam—convert or cultures under its power and become a threat to 

be killed by the sword. 

European nations as far west as France. We’ll 

explore more about the spread and growth of 

Christian and Jewish communities that did not Islam in T o pic 4. 

completely resist Muhammad’s armies were allowed 

some freedom of worship. Y e t in order to 

have this freedom, they had to pay high taxes 

and be in subjection to the new Islamic laws and 

powers (Qur’an, Surah 9:29). 


Medina or Ya thrib: A city north of Mecca; Hijrah: (Arabic—flight or migration) The flight 

Muhammad and his followers fled there to Muhammad made in 622 A.D. from Mecca to 

escape persecution in Mecca 


Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca was only the beginning of Islam’s growth. Within 

one year, the prophet had forcefully united most of the tribes of Arabia under his 

control and the religion of Islam. For the polytheistic tribes, there was only one 

choice when confronted with Islam—convert or be killed by the sword. 

Christian and Jewish communities that did not completely resist Muhammad’s 

armies were allowed some freedom of worship. Yet in order to have this freedom, 

they had to pay high taxes and be in subjection to the new Islamic laws 

and powers (Qur’an, Surah 9:29). 

Muhammad Receives Allah’s Revelation From Gabriel 

Tw elfth Century Persian Painting 


13 

Muhammad's conquest of Arabia was the first step toward Islam’s goal of 

bringing the entire world under its control. Within two or three generations, 

Islam became a global power spreading across three continents. It absorbed 

Christian and other cultures under its power and become a threat to European 

nations as far west as France. We’ll explore more about the spread and growth 

of Islam in Topic 4. 


How long did Muhammad and his followers stay in Medina? 

How did many of the people in Medina respond to Muhammad's 

message? 

What special revelation did Muhammad say he received from Allah in 

Medina? 



What important event in Islamic history occurred in 630 A.D.? 

What changes did Muhammad make in Mecca after conquering it? 

After conquering Mecca, how quickly and how far did Islam spread in 

just one year? 

How did Muhammad treat the Jewish and Christian tribes in Arabia? 

How did Muhammad treat the polytheistic tribes? 

After Muhammad and his armies established Islam throughout Arabia, 

did Islam stop spreading? 

In three generations after Muhammad, how far had Muslim armies 

spread the world's newest theistic religion and worldview? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrases 17 l-m and BLM Definitions 17 

l-m. Summarize Topic 2 by reviewing and discussing these words, places, and 

other key facts. Have students locate these words on SWT page 13. 

13 


Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca was only the 

beginning of Islam’s growth. Within one year, the 

prophet had forcefully united most of the tribes of 

Arabia under his control and the religion of Islam. 

For the polytheistic tribes, there was only one 

choice when confronted with Islam—convert or 

be killed by the sword. 

Christian and Jewish communities that did not 

completely resist Muhammad’s armies were allowed 

some freedom of worship. Y e t in order to 

have this freedom, they had to pay high taxes 

and be in subjection to the new Islamic laws and 

powers (Qur’an, Surah 9:29). 

Medina or Ya thrib: A city north of Mecca; 

Muhammad and his followers fl ed there to 

escape persecution in Mecca 



Muhammad’s conquest of Arabia was the first step 

toward Islam’s goal of bringing the entire world 

under its control. Within two or three generations, 

Islam became a global power spreading across 

three continents. It absorbed Christian and other 

cultures under its power and become a threat to 

European nations as far west as France. We’ll 

explore more about the spread and growth of 

Islam in T o pic 4. 

Hijrah: (Arabic—flight or migration) The flight 

Muhammad made in 622 A.D. from Mecca to 


Have students locate and study the 12th century Persian (Iran) painting of Gabriel's 

dictation to Muhammad on SWT page 13. Have them locate and study 

the English-Arabic Qur'an picture on SWT page 14. Explain that S II in the top 

left-hand corner of the page refers to Surah 2. Verse 185 is shown in the picture. 

Arabic is read from right to left. Ramadan will be discussed in a later lesson, 

although you may want to discuss it briefly now. 




Lesson 17 

Muhammad Receives Allah’s Revelation From Gabriel 

Tw elfth Century Persian Painting 


13 

14 



topic 3. the Death of muhammad and division within Islam 

English-Arabic Qur’an 

Surah 2:185 


14 


When Muhammad died in 630 A.D. at the age of 62, some people wanted to confer 

divinity on him. Abu Bakr, Muhammad's father-in-law, opposed the proclamation 

by reminding the crowds that only Allah "is alive and does not die." Bakr's words 

may have diverted the intended deification of the prophet, but they did not answer 

the question of who would succeed him as leader of the new Islamic community. 

Because Muhammad had no living son and had not appointed a successor, the 

search for the first caliph or successor was on. For many, the obvious choice would 

have been Ali, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law and husband of his favorite 

daughter, Fatima. Ali was a devoted follower of Muhammad and let it be know that 

he had received from Allah the anointing to be Islam's voice. 

Ali's high estimation of himself was not endorsed by the masses, however, and 

the general agreement was that Abu Bakr should be Muhammad's successor. This 

majority decision disgruntled those who were loyal to Ali and sowed the seeds for 

a major division within Islam in its very early years of growth and spread outside 

Arabia. 


19



Following Abu Bakr's death, two more caliphs were chosen, neither of whom were 

linked to Muhammad by blood. Not until both caliphs had been murdered would Ali 

rise to become the fourth caliph and the first from Muhammad's blood line. 

The Arabic word for the disgruntled splinter group that supported Ali and opposed 

the first three elected caliphs was shi'a. Throughout Islamic history, Muslims who 

have held to the authenticity of Ali's line have been known as the Shi'ites and have 

remained in the minority, accounting for only about 12 percent of the world's Muslim 

population. Muslims who have followed the elected line of caliphs and the dynasties 

of their descendants are known as Sunni Muslims, comprising about 80 percent of 

the world's Muslim population. Smaller splinter groups, such as the Sufi Muslims, 

known for their mystical whirling dervish dances, make up the remaining 8 percent 

of the world's Muslim population. 

After Ali came to power in 656 A.D. following the murder of Uthman, the third elected 

caliph, another competitor laid claim to the caliphate. Sides were drawn, and in an 

internal battle for power, Ali was murdered by men in his own army, setting the stage 

for Ali's sons to lead the Shi'ite faction. Hasan, the older son, was poisoned, and 

Husayn, the successor, was killed in battle against the Sunni. Husayn's death is 

commemorated by Shi'ites to this day with parades in which men flagellate themselves 

with chains and knives in memory of their slain martyr. Many Shi'ites today also 

practice regular cursing of Abu Bakr and the first two elected caliphs during their 

Friday prayer services. Shi'ites are also more likely to revere the tomb sites of their 

holy imams more than Mecca, considered to be the holiest site in Islam. 

Shi'ites believe that a special line of succession continues through Husayn. 

Nevertheless, today there are three major divisions within the Shi'ites, and these 

divisions often result in bloody conflicts. Although Shi'ites remain the minority today, 

they comprise over 90 percent of the population of Iran and 60 percent of the population 

of Iraq. The great tension in Iraq before the Iraqi war lay in the fact that Saddam 

Hussein and his power party were Sunni, ruling over the majority Shi'ites. 

Shi'ites in Saudi Arabia experience 

discrimination in employment 

and freedom of worship 

unique to their sect. They 

compose about 15 percent of 

the population. Saudi Arabia 

enforces strict adherence to the 

Wahabbi sect of Sunni Islam 

with no separation of religion 

and state. It permits no other religious 

groups to practice publicly 

within the country. Foreigners 

such as embassy employees, 

contractors, etc., are supposedly 

allowed to practice their 

faith within the confines of their 

residences, but not beyond. 

This permission is unofficial and 

foreigners are often subject to 

harassment and persecution for 

their beliefs. 

Within Shi'ite Islam, the spiritual successors of Husayn are as known as imams. 

These are not the same as the imams who lead prayers in Sunni mosques. Rather, 

the Shi'ite imams are both political and spiritual leaders. Some Shi'ites recognize 

twelve imams in the line of succession beginning with Ali, Hasan, Husayn, and nine 

others. The twelfth imam, however, is believed to have disappeared in 941 A.D. 

when he was only five years old. The belief is that this imam known as the Mahdi 

is hidden until a future time when the world will experience its greatest political and 

catastrophic upheaval in history. When this happens, the Mahdi will appear suddenly 

and establish universal Islamic rule on earth. 

In 2005, Ahmadinejad, the president of Iran, stated that his main mission was to 

"pave the path for the glorious reappearance of Imam Mahdi—may Allah hasten 

his reappearance." He and many other radical Shi'ites believe that the Mahdi will 

soon return to earth, followed by Jesus. Jesus, who according to Islam has always 

been a Muslim, will help the Mahdi defeat global evil and bring everyone to faith 

in Islam. After the Mahdi dies, Jesus will rule for 40 years before his own death, at 

which time Muslims will bury him in Medina near the tombs of Abu Bakr and other 

Islamic leaders. Some believe that Ahmadinejad wants to hasten the return of the 

Mahdi by triggering global conflagration involving the annihilation of Israel and 



conflict with Western "infidel" nations. 






After Muhammad died, Islam divided into two warring groups that still 

exist today. What do you think caused this division? 

Have students read The Death of Muhammad (SWT p. 17). 

 

The Death of Muhammad: Muhammad conquered Mecca in 630 A.D. He died 

two years later at the age of 62. Muhammad had no living son to become his 

heir and the next leader of Islam. Although Muhammad could have appointed 

someone to succeed him as leader before he died, he failed 

to do so. The question of who would become the next leader 

of Islam became a divisive problem. 

Some Muslims believed Muhammad’s successor should be 

a blood relative such as his cousin Ali. Some even believed 

that Muhammad had appointed Ali to succeed him. Others 

disagreed. As the Muslim community debated who should 

become their next leader, the majority chose Muhammad’s 

father-in-law and good friend, Abu Bakr. The new leader was called a caliph. 

His responsibility was to carry out the leadership and rule of Islam throughout 

Arabia and other parts of the world. 

17 


Topic 3 

The Death of Muhammad and Division Within Islam 

The Death of Muhammad: Muhammad conquered Mecca in 630 A.D. He died two years later at the 

age of 62. Muhammad had no living son to become his heir and the next leader of Islam. Although 

Muhammad could have appointed someone to succeed him as leader before he died, he failed to do 

so. The question of who would become the next leader of Islam became a divisive problem. 

Some Muslims believed Muhammad’s successor should be 

a blood relative such as his cousin Ali. Some even believed 

that Muhammad had appointed Ali to succeed him. Others 

disagreed. As the Muslim community debated who should 

become their next leader, the majority chose Muhammad’s 

father-in-law and good friend, Abu Bakr. The new leader 

was called a caliph. His responsibility was to carry out the 

leadership and rule of Islam throughout Arabia and other 

parts of the world. 

The choice of Abu Bakr and later two more caliphs who were 

not Muhammad’s blood relatives angered many Muslims. 

A great division occurred within Islam that remains to this 

day. Those who believe Muhammad’s successor should 

have been a blood relative are known as Shiite or Shia’h 

Muslims. Those who believe that his successor should be 

elected are known as Sunni Muslims. 

Abu Bakr—Islam’s First Caliph Today about 80 percent of the world’s Muslims are Sunni, 

and only about 12 percent are Shiite. The remaining 8 

percent include smaller groups of Muslims, each with unique beliefs that set them apart from the others. 

Although worldwide the Shiite Muslims are in the minority compared to the Sunni Muslims, in some 

nations like Iran and Iraq, the Shiites are in 

the majority. Over 90 percent of Iranians and 

60 percent of Iraqis are Shiite. In nations 

where one group is in the majority, there is 

often persecution of the minority group. Not 

only do Shiite and Sunni Muslims disagree 

over Muhammad’s successor, they also 

disagree over other things. Shiites believe 

that their leaders should have both political 

and religious power. Sunnis believe that the 

authority over religion and political affairs 

should be separate. 

Muslim Men at Prayer 


17 

The choice of Abu Bakr and later two more caliphs who were not Muhammad’s 

blood relatives angered many Muslims. A great division occurred within Islam 

that remains to this day. Those who believe Muhammad’s successor should 

have been a blood relative are known as Shi'ite or Shia’h Muslims. Those who 

believe that his successor should be elected are known as Sunni Muslims. 

Today about 80 percent of the world’s Muslims are Sunni, and only about 12 

percent are Shi'ite. The remaining 8 percent include smaller groups of Muslims, 

each with unique beliefs that set them apart from the others. Although worldwide 

the Shi'ite Muslims are in the minority compared to the Sunni Muslims, in some 

nations like Iran and Iraq, the Shi'ites are in the majority. Over 90 percent of 

Iranians and 60 percent of Iraqis are Shi'ite. In nations where one group is in 

the majority, there is often persecution of the minority 

group. Not only do Shi'ite and Sunni Muslims disagree 

over Muhammad’s successor, they also disagree 

over other things. Shi'ites believe that their leaders 

should have both political and religious power. Sunnis 

believe that the authority over religion and political 

affairs should be separate. 


21

do this in a gentle and respectful way. 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 


21 



Lesson 17 Memory Verses 

15 . . . if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But 

As an aid to discussing The Death of Muhammad and Division Within Islam, 

you may wish to WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Words/Phrases 17n-q and BLM 

Definitions 17n-q at appropriate times during the discussion. Have students 

locate Key People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 21. 



Abu Bakr: The first caliph of Islam who led 

its armies to force all the tribes of Arabia to 

submit to the teachings of Muhammad 

Caliph: Islam’s leader and Muhammad’s 


Shiite Muslims: Muslims who believe that 

Muhammad’s successors should come from 

his family or bloodline 



Muhammad’s successors should be elected 

Umar the Great: The second caliph of 

Islam who led its armies to conquer parts of 

Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe and 

spread the teachings of Muhammad 



21 

How long after conquering Mecca did Muhammad die? How old was 

he when he died? 

What had Muhammad failed to do before he died? 

Why do you think his not appointing a successor created such a 

problem among the Muslims? 

Over what issue did the Muslims divide? 

Who are the Shi'ites? 

Who are the Sunnis? 

What title was given to Muhammad's successor? 

What was the caliph's responsibility? 

Who was the first caliph after Muhammad's death? How did he become 

a caliph? 

About what percent of Muslims in the world today are Sunnis? What 

percent are Shi'ites? 

Although Shi'ites are the minority worldwide, in what two nations 

today are they the majority? 

In some countries today like Saudi Arabia where Shi'ites are the 

minority, how do you think they are treated by Sunni Muslims? 

topic 4. the growth and spread of Islam 


By the time of Muhammad's death in 632 A.D., Islam had become established as the 

dominant power throughout most of the tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. It was left 

to the first caliph, Abu Bakr, to complete the unification before his death in 634 A.D. 

With the election of the second caliph, Umar the Great, Islam launched a series of 

spectacular offensives and conquests, beginning with the conquest of Damascus in 

Syria in 635 A.D. By 637 A.D., Umar's armies had conquered Jordan and Palestine, 

including the city of Jerusalem. In 641 A.D., Egypt fell to the force of Islam. By 643 

A.D., Muslim armies had taken Azerbaijan and advanced as far west as Tripoli, Libya, 

in North Africa. In 644 A.D., Umar was assassinated, but by then he had brought 

much of the Middle East and North Africa under the control of Islam. 

Under succeeding caliphs, Islam spread east as far as India and west as far as 

Spain. Its incursion northward into France, however, was stopped in 732 A.D. by 

Charles Martel at the Battle of Tours. From the fifteenth to the eighteenth centuries, 

Islam spread even further, forming three empires—one in India, one in Iran, and 

the most aggressive in Turkey, the Ottoman Empire. This latter empire conquered 

Greece and Bulgaria, and in 1453, Islam overthrew Constantinople, now named 

Istanbul. New conquests during these centuries included all of the Balkan peninsula 



except Montenegro. Islam moved into Hungary. It dominated Armenia, Georgia, 

and most of the Middle East it had conquered in previous centuries. The Ottoman 

Empire's westward advance into Europe was halted, however, at the gates of Vienna 

in 1529, reminiscent of Islam's earlier European defeat in France at the Battle of 

Tours in 732. 


Under the rule of the Ottoman Turks, some Christian communities survived, especially 

the cities along the Greek coast and in Armenia. However, Christians often paid a 

high price for the right to coexist with their captors. They paid heavy taxes, were 

employed in the lowest levels of work, and many became slaves of their Muslim 

masters. Many Christians converted to Islam during these years to avoid persecution, 

and many young men were conscripted into Muslim armies. Many churches were 

converted into mosques. 

Though the Ottoman Empire was finally abolished in 1922 and replaced by the Turkish 

republic, the influence of its vast rule over Europe's Balkan region remains today. 

There are an estimated 12 to15 million Muslims living in the Balkans among traditional 

Orthodox Christian communities. In nations such as Albania, Macedonia, Kosovo, 

and Bosnia-Herzegovina between 30 to 85 percent of the population is Muslim. 

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, many Muslim states were colonized 

or dominated by Western powers, especially by Britain and France. Today, however, 

these former colonies are independent nations (Iraq, Syria, Indonesia, Egypt, Morocco, 

Tunisia, Algeria, Sudan, Malaysia, and Nigeria) and play a significant political and 

cultural role in the world. With the rise of militant Islamic fundamentalism, initiated 

in the Iranian revolution in 1979 by Khomeini, Islamic nations have taken center 

stage in world affairs. The Palestinian situation in Israel, the wars in Afghanistan and 

Iraq, and the current wave of militant terrorism reveal that Islam, whether peaceful 

or radical, is a growing and highly influential religion and worldview that cannot be 

ignored by the West. 

Islamic growth in the West, particularly in Europe, is occurring through immigration and 

through a Muslim family birthrate that is three times higher than that of non-Muslim 

Europeans. In 2005, the Muslim population was 4 percent of the European Union's 

population. About 1 million new Islamic immigrants arrive in Western Europe every 

year, and by 2050, it is estimated that one in five Europeans will likely be Muslim. 3 

After Christianity, Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world today. 

Reference 

3 

Pan, Esther. EUROPE: 

Integrating Islam. Council on 

Foreign Relations . July 13, 2005. 





How far do you think Islam spread beyond Arabia after Muhammad 

died? Why? 

How far do you think Islam spread in the first 100 years after Muhammad's 

death? 


23


Lesson 17 


Topic 4 

The Growth and Spread of Islam 

The First One Hundred Ye ars: After Muhammad’s death, 

the fi rst caliph, Abu Bakr, continued his work. He brought all 

the tribes of Arabia into one community of believers. They 

became essentially one religious, cultural, and political 

group with a unifi ed army. All of this occurred within one year 

of Muhammad’s death. Abu Bakr ruled for only two years 

before he died. In 634 A.D., a second caliph was chosen. 

His name was Umar or Omar. During Umar’s reign, amazing 

things began to happen. The Islamic empire grew rapidly. 

In just 10 years, the Muslim armies led by Umar conquered 

Mesopotamia (Iraq today) and parts of Persia (Iran today). 

They marched west, conquering Egypt, and north, conquering 

Syria and Palestine, including the city of Jerusalem. They 

swept across North Africa, moving as far north as Armenia, 

just south of modern-day Russia. In 644 A.D., Umar was 

Umar the Great: Islam’s Second Caliph murdered by a man from Persia (Iran). His successor was 

Uthman, who continued to lead Islam’s march across the 

world. 

By the year 732 A.D., just 100 years after Muhammad’s death, Muslim armies had conquered lands 

from as far east as India to as far west as modern-day Morocco in northwest Africa. They had also 

18 


18 

 

Have students read The First One Hundred Years (SWT pp. 18-19). 

The First One Hundred Years: After Muhammad’s death, 

the first caliph, Abu Bakr, continued his work. He brought all 

the tribes of Arabia into one community of believers. They 

became essentially one religious, cultural, and political group 

with a unified army. All of this occurred within one year of 

Muhammad’s death. Abu Bakr ruled for only two years before 

he died. In 634 A.D., a second caliph was chosen. His name 

was Umar or Omar. During Umar’s reign, amazing things 

began to happen. The Islamic empire grew rapidly. In just 10 years, the Muslim 

armies led by Umar conquered Mesopotamia (Iraq today) and parts of Persia 

(Iran today). They marched west, conquering Egypt, and north, conquering 

Syria and Palestine, including the city of Jerusalem. They swept across North 

Africa and moved as far north as Armenia, just south of modern-day Russia. In 

644 A.D., Umar was murdered by a man from Persia (Iran). His successor was 

Uthman, who continued to lead Islam’s march across the world. 

19 


moved into Europe, ruling most of Spain. But in 732 A.D., their move into Europe was stopped as they 

tried to conquer France. At the famous Battle of Tours, the Muslim conquest of Europe was halted. 

Nevertheless, Islam was well established in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. 

The Later Years: Although Islam’s westward march was stopped in France, Muslims established 

powerful empires in later centuries. The most powerful was the Ottoman Empire ruled from Anatolia or 

modern-day Turkey. Once again, the Muslim armies marched against Europe. This time they conquered 

Hungary and moved all the way into 

Austria. However, their armies were 

again stopped, this time at the gates 

to the city of Vienna, Austria, in 1529. 

Had the Muslim armies not been 

defeated, most historians believe 

that Europe would be a completely 

Muslim continent today. 

Islam Around the World Today: 

Today, almost 1.2 billion people or 

22 percent of the world’s population 

practice the Islamic religion and hold 

an Islamic worldview. (Approximately 

2 billion people or about 32 percent of 

The Red Mosque—Delhi, India 

the world’s population today claim to 

be Christian.) Although Islam began 

in Arabia, most Muslims today are not Arabs. In fact, the countries with the largest Muslim populations 

today are found outside the Middle East. These include Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. 

Muslims are in the majority in Northern Africa as well as in all the countries of the Middle East except 

Israel. 

Beyond these countries, Islam is growing rapidly, so rapidly that 

some believe the Muslim population of the world will equal or even 

outnumber the Christian population by the year 2025. For example, 

in England in 1945 there was only one mosque. A mosque is a 

special building where Muslims worship. Today there are thousands 

of mosques in England and many thousands more are being built 

around the world from the Americas to Africa. 

Most of the Islamic growth is peaceful. Muslim families move or 

immigrate to traditionally non-Muslim parts of the world such as 

Europe or North America. They raise their children, who in turn 

grow, marry, and have their children, thus increasing the Muslim 

population. 

But some of the growth of Islam is not peaceful. Some Muslims 


Explain that "Christian" within 

the context of global populations 

includes all major confessions— 

Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, 

Coptic, and other groups. Often 

Christian refers to traditional 

heritage as opposed to actual 

"born again" believers who profess 

and live out the essentials 

of the Christian faith. Likewise, 

Muslim nations include a wide 

spectrum of sects, including 

syncretized sects that combine 

traditional Islam with animist 

tribal religions. 

19 

By the year 732 A.D., just 100 years after Muhammad’s death, Muslim armies 

had conquered lands from as far east as India to as far west as modern-day 

Morocco in northwest Africa. They had also moved into Europe, ruling most 

of Spain. But in 732 A.D., their move into Europe was stopped as they tried to 

conquer France. At the famous Battle of Tours, the Muslim conquest of Europe 

was halted. Nevertheless, Islam was well established in Africa, the Middle East, 

and Asia. 

As an aid to discussing The Growth and Spread of Islam, The First One Hundred 

Years, you may wish to WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrase 17r and BLM 

Definition 17r at appropriate times during the discussion. Have students locate 

Key People, Places, and Definitions on SWT page 21. 

Display a World Map. Have students locate and study the map showing Islam's 

expansion on page 18 of the Worktext. Identify the nations named in this part 

of Topic 4. 


What did caliph Abu Bakr accomplish for Islam after Muhammad 

died? 

Who was the second caliph elected after Abu Bakr died? 



What parts of the world did the Islamic armies conquer under caliph 

Umar the Great? 

How long did it take for Umar's armies to conquer this much of the 

world? 

What conquered city was especially significant for the Christian 

world? 

Today, who claims the city of Jerusalem as its own holy city? (Jews, 

Christians, and Muslims) 

What problems are you aware of in Israel and Jerusalem today? 

Why? 


How far had Islam spread in the first 100 years after Muhammad's 

death? 

In what country was Islam's march to conquer Europe stopped? 

What is the name of the battle in France that stopped Islam? 

When the spread of Islam was stopped in France, was that the end 

of efforts to spread it throughout the world? How do you know? 

How much more of the world do you think fell to the armies of Islam 

in later years? 

Have students read The Later Years (SWT p. 19). 

 

The Later Years: Although Islam’s westward march was stopped in France, 

Muslims established powerful empires in later centuries. The most powerful was 

the Ottoman Empire, which ruled from Anatolia or modern-day Turkey. Once 

again, the Muslim armies marched against Europe. This time they conquered 

Hungary and moved all the way into Austria. However, their armies were again 

stopped, this time at the gates to the city of Vienna, Austria, in 1529. Had the 

Muslim armies not been defeated, most historians believe that Europe would 

be a completely Muslim continent today. 


19 




























Israel. 








What was the name of the powerful Islamic empire that arose in later 

centuries and attempted again to spread Islam into Europe? 

How far did the armies of the Ottoman Empire advance into Europe? 





population. 



19 

Display a World Map. Identify Hungary and Austria. 

In what nations of the world today do you think Islam is the primary 

religion and worldview? 

Why do we hear so much about Islam in the news today? 

What impressions do you have about the nature of Islam around the 

world today? Why? 

Do you think Muslims around the world think exactly alike about their 

worldview and how they should live their lives as Muslims? Why? 

Why not? 

Have students read Islam Around the World Today (SWT pp. 19-20). 


25



19 




























Israel. 








 

Islam Around the World Today: Today, almost 1.2 billion people or 22 percent 

of the world’s population practice the Islamic religion and hold an Islamic worldview. 

(Approximately 2 billion people or about 32 

percent of the world’s population today claim to be 

Christian.) Although Islam began in Arabia, most 

Muslims today are not Arabs. In fact, the countries 

with the largest Muslim populations today are found 

outside the Middle East. These include Indonesia, 

Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. Muslims are in 

the majority in Northern Africa as well as in all the 

countries of the Middle East except Israel. 





population. 



19 

Beyond these countries, Islam is growing rapidly, so rapidly 

that some believe the Muslim population of the world will 

equal or even outnumber the Christian population by the year 

2025. For example, in England in 1945 there was only one 

mosque. A mosque is a special building where Muslims worship. 

Today there are thousands of mosques in England and 

many thousands more are being built around the world from 

the Americas to Africa. 

Most of the Islamic growth is peaceful. Muslim families move or emigrate to 

traditionally non-Muslim parts of the world such as Europe or North America. 

They raise their children, who in turn grow, marry, and have their children, thus 

increasing the Muslim population. 

But some of the growth of Islam is not peaceful. Some Muslims are called militants. 

They work to spread their religion and worldview by force through terrorism and 

war with non-Islamic groups and countries. Militant Islam causes much tension in 

today’s world. Efforts to coexist peacefully with Islam’s militant groups often fail. 

While most Muslims want to live in peace with their Christian and non-Christian 

neighbors, the clash between militant Islam and other cultures and worldviews 

is a difficult reality that affects most nations of the world today. 

Lesson 17 

are called militants. They work to spread their religion and worldview by force through terrorism and 

war with non-Islamic groups and countries. Militant Islam causes much tension in today’s world. Efforts 

to coexist peacefully with Islam’s militant groups often fail. While most Muslims want to live in peace 

with their Christian and non-Christian neighbors, the clash between militant Islam and other cultures 

and worldviews is a difficult reality that affects most nations of the world today. 

In the lessons of Unit 3, we’ll continue to explore Islam as a worldview shaped by its beliefs about 

truth, God, people, the universe, and values. As we explore each category of beliefs, we will always 

compare them to what God’s revelation in the Bible says. Sometimes you hear that Muslims and 

Christians believe exactly the same things. While Christians and Muslims do share some common 

beliefs, their differences are so great that Islam cannot be called a biblical Christian view of God and 

the world. For this reason, we must evaluate Islam and all other worldviews in light of the truths God 

revealed to us in Scripture. 

As you study Islam in this unit, it is important 

to remember that Muslims are God’s imagebearers. 

They may be your neighbors, or 

they may be people you know about only 

through newspapers or television. But either 

way, you must study their worldview with 

respect and with prayer. Guard against your 

personal opinions that may be based on what 

you read or hear others say. Always search 

for the truth within God’s Word. And if you 

have an opportunity to share your faith and 

biblical Christianity with a Muslim, remember 

to do so with love and respect. 

20 

In the lessons of Unit 3, we’ll continue to explore Islam as a worldview shaped 

by its beliefs about truth, God, people, the universe, and values. As we explore 

each category of beliefs, we will always compare them to what God’s revelation 

in the Bible says. Sometimes you hear that Muslims and Christians believe 

exactly the same things. While Christians and Muslims do share some common 

beliefs, their differences are so great that Islam cannot be called a biblical 

Christian view of God and the world. For this reason, we must evaluate Islam 

and all other worldviews in light of the truths God revealed to us in Scripture. 

20 

The apostles Paul and Peter instructed the 

Christians of the early church to speak to 

non-Christians with the love of Christ—never 

belligerently or defensively. 

5 Live wisely among those who are not 

believers, and make the most of every opportunity. 

6 Let your conversation be gracious 

and attractive so that you will have the right 

response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6 NLT 

15 . . . if someone asks about your Christian 

hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do 

this in a gentle and respectful way. 

1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 


As you study Islam in this unit, it is important to remember that Muslims are 

God’s image-bearers. They may be your neighbors, or they may be people 

you know about only through newspapers or television. 

But either way, you must study their worldview 

with respect and with prayer. Guard against your 

personal opinions that may be based on what you 

read or hear others say. Always search for the truth 

within God’s Word. And if you have an opportunity 



to share your faith and biblical Christianity with a Muslim, remember to do so 

with love and respect. 


The apostles Paul and Peter instructed the Christians of the early church to speak 

to non-Christians with the love of Christ—never belligerently or defensively. 

5 

Live wisely among those who are not believers, 

and make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your 

conversation be gracious and attractive so that you 

will have the right response for everyone. 


15 

. . . if someone asks about your Christian hope, 

always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle 

and respectful way. 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 

As an aid to discussing Islam Around the World Today, you may wish to WRITE 

OR DISPLAY BLM Word/Phrase 17s and BLM Definition 17s at appropriate 



Students may be interested in 

studying the pictures on page 22 

in the SWT of Islam's three most 

holy sites in relation to learning 

the key word mosque. 


21 



About how many Muslims are there in the world today? How does 

that number compare to the number of Christians? 

Most of the population in almost all the countries in the Middle East 

and North Africa is Muslim. Israel is one exception. Its population is 

mostly Jewish. What countries are included in the Middle East and 

North Africa today? 



Abu Bakr: The fi rst caliph of Islam who led 

















Display a World Map. Help students identify Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, 

Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi 

Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. 

The nations with the largest Muslim populations today are found 

outside the Middle East. What nations outside the Middle East have 

a majority Muslim population? 


21 

Display a World Map. Help students identify Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, 

and India. 

Outside the nations we just identified, where is Islam spreading 

today? 

What evidence is there that Islam is growing in nations like England, 

which once was considered a Christian nation? 

What is a mosque? 

How is Islam spreading peacefully to nations outside the Middle 

East, North Africa, and other predominately Muslim nations today? 

How does Islam spread today in ways that are not peaceful? 


27



What problems do we have in the world today because of the militant 

spread of Islam? 

21 


Why is it important to understand Islam as a theistic religion and 

worldview in today's world? 

Do you think the Islamic view of God is identical to the biblical Christian 

view of God? What differences have you already learned? 

Do you think the Islamic view about truth is also different than the 

biblical Christian view? About people? About the universe? About 

values? Why? 

Remind students that in the next five lessons they will explore the Islamic view 

in each of these categories of beliefs and compare them to the biblical Christian 

view. 

How does Scripture tell us we must live among and share our faith 

with people who are not Christians? 

Why must we share with and respond to everyone in a gentle and 

respectful way? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 17 Memory Verses, 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT. 

Have students read and recite the verses. Discuss in relation to potential interactions 

with Muslims in your community. 





 

15 

. . . if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain 

it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT 

Abu Bakr: The first caliph of Islam who led 









Lesson 17 









21 

22 


What is your Christian hope? 

What must you know in order to share your faith with others? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Words/Phrases 17n-17s and BLM Definitions 

17n-17s.Summarize Topics 3 and 4 by reviewing and discussing the key people, 

words, and definitions found on SWT page 21. 

Have students locate and study the pictures depicting Islam's three holiest sites 

on SWT page 22. 

The Mosque and Ka’aba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia—Islam’s Most Holy Site 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Writing About It (SWT p. 23), 

Thinking About It (SWT p. 24), The Main Points (SWT pp. 25-26), and Hiding 

God's Word (SWT pp. 27-28) . If you prefer, create comprehension, application, 


The Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Saudi Arabia—Islam’s Second Most Holy Site 

Built on the site of Muhammad’s original mosque and home 

Dome of the Rock Shrine in Jerusalem—Islam’s Third Most Holy Site 

Built on the site of King Solomon’s Temple in 690 A.D. after the Islamic conquest of Jerusalem in 637 A.D. 

22 



LESSON 22 

THERE IS NO GOD, AND THAT'S THE TRUTH 

The Naturalist View of God and Truth 

Introduction 


Units 2 and 3 explored the theistic worldviews of biblical Christianity and Islam, 

which are founded on belief in the existence of one supreme God. Naturalism, the 

subject of Unit 4, is founded on denial of God and the supernatural. Naturalism at its 

core is atheistic and rests on the belief that ultimate reality is material. The physical 

universe is all there is, was, or ever will be. Only that which can be measured, seen, 

touched, or proved to exist is real. Human beings, not God, are the highest beings 

in the natural world although they, too, are merely one part of the mechanistic and 

material universe. 

Lesson 22 introduces students to the worldview of naturalism by exploring the basic 

implications of a universe without God. Specifically, it compares and contrasts the 

biblical Christian and naturalist views of truth by examining some of the problems 

inherent in a view of truth and reality that denies the existence of God and the truth 

of His Word. 


This is what the LORD says: 

"Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, 

who rely on human strength 

and turn their hearts away from the LORD." 

Jeremiah 17:5 NLT 




See Syllabus, p. xviii 




lesson. 




topics. 






lesson. 














Objectives 

• Students will define naturalism and explore two diagrams to visualize the contrast 

in the essential affirmations of naturalism and biblical Christianity. 

• Students will define humanism and examine the core affirmations of naturalism 

expressed three Humanist Manifestos. 

• Students will review key Scriptures that refute the naturalist view of God and human 

beings and affirm the existence of God and His sovereignty over all creation. 

• Students will review evidence for God's existence as a foundation for further 

exploration into the naturalist denial of God. 

• Students will review the definition and objective nature of truth. 


191



• Students will review the biblical Christian view of how people come to know truth 

and compare and contrast it with the naturalist view. 

• Students will identify some problems inherent in the naturalist view of truth. 

Materials 



Lesson 22 Memory Verse 





Definitions 22b 

Truth: That which agrees with, accurately 

describes, and accurately explains what is real 

Objective: Existing as a reality independently of 

what we may think or feel 

Naturalism: An atheistic worldview based on 

the belief that our senses, science, and reason 

prove that the natural or physical universe is all 

that exists 

Humanism: The atheistic belief that humans 

are the highest of all beings 





lesson. 









concepts. 



binder. 







Topic 2 


Topic 3 


Topic 4 


Group Discussion/Activities 

Order and Design: Construct a simple object (house, airplane, tower) out 

of Legos or other toy construction pieces. Display the object for the class. 

Next, disassemble the object and have students try to reconstruct it by simply 

tossing the Lego pieces randomly into the air. Lead a discussion related to 

the origin, color, and shapes of the Lego pieces themselves, as well as the 

origin, planning, design, function, and construction of the object. Correlate 

the activity with the irrational explanations posed by naturalists for the origin 

of the universe from pre-existing eternal matter. You can conduct a similar 

activity by displaying a short one-paragraph story written on a large piece 


There Is No God, and That's the Truth 

of poster board. After discussing the story, cut out each word. Distribute 

the words to students and have them toss them into the air in an effort to 

re-create the identical story. Discuss the even greater impossibility of such 

an event occurring if the letters of each word were cut apart and tossed 

into the air, first to create the words and then the story. 


Design in Creation: Reinforce the design and order of the creation by leading 

a discussion to help students identify examples of design and order such 

as seasons, moon phases, animal locomotion in relation to habitat, plant 

and animal reproduction, planetary orbits, etc. 

The Attributes and Character of God: Lead a nature hike (or a discussion) 

to help students identify some of the attributes and characteristics of God 

that are revealed in nature (His omnipotence, omniscience, creativity, 

orderliness, goodness, etc.). Have students correlate their observations 

with God's various attributes and characteristics. 

Naturalism Versus Order, Design, Morals, and Purpose: Have students 

identify things in creation that defy the naturalist theory that the universe is 

the product of random chaotic interaction of eternal matter. Focus on the 

naturalist belief that impersonal, irrational, amoral, and purposeless matter 

has formed the orderly universe populated by rational, purposeful, creative, 

and morally guided personal beings. 

Humanist Manifestos: Obtain copies or select and post excerpts from various 

editions of the Humanist Manifesto. Help students state the key ideas in 

their own words. Discuss in relation to the biblical Christian worldview. 

Culture Check: Help students identify the influence of naturalism/humanism 

in contemporary culture (movies, television, music, games, leisure activities, 

sexual values, advertising, pop literature/magazines, education, etc.). 


Beckwith, Francis J. and Gregory Koukl. Relativism: Feet Firmly Planted in 

Mid-Air. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1998. 

Geisler, Norman L. and William D. Watkins. Worlds Apart: A Handbook on 

Worldviews, 2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1989. 

Nash, Ronald H. Worldviews in Conflict: Choosing Christianity in a World of 

Ideas. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992. 

Noebel, David. Understanding the Times: The Collision of Today's Competing 

Worldviews, 2nd ed. Manitou Springs: Summit Press, 2006. 

Phillips, W. Gary, William E. Brown, and John Stonestreet. Making Sense of 

Your World: A Biblical Worldview. Salem, WI: Sheffield, 2008. 

www.summit.org. An excellent web site containing timely worldview articles. 


193





Teacher Manual: pp.194-200 Student Worktext: pp. 209-220 

getting started—what is naturalism? 


In contrast to theism and theistic worldviews that view God as the Ultimate Reality 

and Creator of the physical cosmos, naturalism views the material universe as the 

only and, therefore, ultimate reality. God simply does not exist, or He might exist 

(agnosticism) but is irrelevant to the natural world and the issues of life. Because 

naturalists reject the concept that creation necessitates a Creator, they believe the 

matter that makes up the physical cosmos is eternal. It has always existed. It simply 

is and always has been, without a Creator. 

Therefore, the foundation for a naturalistic worldview cannot be revelation from 

a Higher Authority or God. Only things that can be observed, touched, or proved 

to exist through the scientific method are real. Everything that happens within the 

material world is caused by forces or factors contained within the material world 

itself. There is no outside intervention. Admitting such a possibility would open 

the door to speculation about a Creator or an Intelligent Force, concepts that are 

rejected by people holding a naturalistic worldview. 

Naturalism is an inclusive term for a number of worldviews, including Materialism, 

Scientism, Atheism, and Secular Humanism. Although each of these worldviews 

bears distinguishing characteristics, the essential belief that binds them together is 

that nature is the ultimate reality. 

Naturalism is an increasingly aggressive worldview in Western cultures, competing 

directly with all theistic worldviews, especially biblical Christian theism. Although 

the West is considered to be "Christian" in the broadest sense of the term (though 

considered post-Christian by many), true biblical Christian theism is being syncretized 

with elements of naturalism, or in some cases completely abandoned in favor of 

naturalism. 

209 

UNIT 4 

NATURALISM 

AN UNBIBLICAL VIEW OF 

THE WORLD WITHOUT GOD 


Have students turn to the Unit 4 title page (SWT p. 209). Have them study the 

icon for Unit 4. Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. 


Why might someone look at a photo of the earth, the moon, and the 

sun and conclude we live in a world without God? 

Why do you think we use the word "naturalism" to identify the worldview 

that rejects God? 


209 



Have students turn to Getting Started (SWT p. 210). Have them read the title 

and subtitle of Lesson 22. Discuss to ascertain students' understanding. 



What is a naturalist? 

What does the title of this lesson tell you about the worldview of a 

naturalist? 

Do you think naturalists and biblical Christians share any of the same 

beliefs about the universe? What beliefs might they have in common? 

What major differences do you think there are between a naturalist 

and biblical Christian? 

Have students read What Is Naturalism? (SWT p. 210). 

 

What Is Naturalism? So far in our study of A World of Worldviews, 

we’ve explored biblical Christianity and Islam, two of the 

three great theistic worldviews and religions of history. (The 

third, Judaism, the worldview and religion of the Hebrew or 

Jewish people, is not included in this study.) Now we’re ready 

to study a worldview called naturalism. You can see the root 

word nature in the word naturalism. This worldview holds that 

only things that can be seen or proved to exist in the natural 

world are real. The supernatural—immaterial things that are 

super or above nature—simply do not exist. Included in the supernatural are God, 

spiritual beings such as angels and demons, and the spirit that God placed in 

each image-bearer. Most if not all naturalists, therefore, are atheistic, meaning 

God is not a part of what they believe is true about the world. 

LESSON 22 

There Is No God, and That‛s the Truth 

The Naturalist View of God and Truth 

Getting Started—What Is Naturalism? 

So far in our study of A World of Worldviews, we’ve explored biblical 

Christianity and Islam, two of the three great theistic worldviews 

and religions of history. (The third, Judaism, the worldview and 

religion of the Hebrew or Jewish people, is not included in this 

study.) Now we’re ready to study a worldview called naturalism. 

You can see the root word nature in the word naturalism. This 

worldview holds that only things that can be seen or proved to exist 

in the natural world are real. The supernatural—immaterial things 

that are super or above nature—simply do not exist. Included in 

the supernatural are God, spiritual beings such as angels and 

demons, and the spirit that God placed in each image-bearer. 

Most if not all naturalists, therefore, are atheistic, meaning God 

is not a part of what they believe is true about the world. 

Like all worldviews, naturalism is based on what naturalists believe 

is true about truth itself. Since naturalists believe that truth is only 

that which can be proved to exist in the natural world, they deny 

the truth that God reveals through creation, through the Bible, 

and through Jesus Christ. As we explore the naturalist view 

of God and truth, we’ll be sure to contrast them with the biblical Christian view. In Lessons 23, we’ll 

explore the naturalist view of people and the universe, and in Lesson 24, we’ll explore the naturalist 

view of moral laws and values. 

Naturalism 

An atheistic worldview based on the 

belief that our senses, science, and 

reason prove that the natural or physical 

universe is all that exists 

210 A World of Worldviews 

210 

Like all worldviews, naturalism is based on what naturalists believe is true about 

truth itself. Since naturalists believe that truth is only that which can be proved 

to exist in the natural world, they deny the truth that God reveals through creation, 

through the Bible, and through Jesus Christ. As 

we explore the naturalist view of God and truth, we’ll 

contrast them with the biblical Christian view as we did 

with Islam. In Lessons 23, we’ll explore the naturalist 

view of people and the universe, and in Lesson 24, we’ll 

explore the naturalist view of moral laws and values. 


What root word do you see in the word "naturalism"? 

What do we mean when we say that people who hold the worldview 

of naturalism do not believe in the supernatural? 

What are the only kinds of things naturalists accept as true? 

Why do naturalists reject the supernatural? 

What source of truth do naturalists reject? Why? 

How can we define "naturalism"? 


195



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 22a, Naturalism: An atheistic worldview 

based on the belief that our senses, science, and reason prove that the natural 

or physical universe is all that exists (SWT p. 210). Discuss to ascertain students' 

understanding. 


topic 1. a universe without god 

Naturalism unashamedly denies the existence of the supernatural, meaning anything 

outside of nature. This includes God, Satan, angels, demons, and the human soul. 

Nature or the cosmos, according to scientist Carl Sagan, ". . . is all there is or ever 

was or ever will be." 1 This foundational belief demands, therefore, that the cosmos be 

self-existing, not created or dependent on any spiritual being for its continuation. 

Naturalism is the worldview held by secular humanists, people who believe that 

humanity is the highest of all beings and that truth and knowledge rest in science 

and human reason. As early as 1933, noted secular humanists, including educator 

John Dewey, published the Humanist Manifesto I, declaring the self-existence of 

the cosmos and the passing of the time for a belief in the existence of God. 2 

211 

References 

1 

Sagan, Carl. Cosmos. New 

York: Random House, 1980, 

p. 1. 

2 

Humanist Manifesto I. Buffalo, 

NY: Prometheus Books, 

1933, p. 8. 

3 

Humanist Manifesto II. Buffalo, 

NY: Prometheus Books, 

1973, p. 16. 

4 

Kurtz, Paul. Humanist Manifesto 

2000: A Call for a New 

Planetary Humanism. Amherst, 

NY: Prometheus Books, 2000, 

p. 63. 

Topic 1 

Naturalism—A Universe Without God 

Two Illustrations: We can illustrate the naturalist view of 

NOTHING 

the existence of God and compare and contrast it with the 

biblical Christian view by using two diagrams. In Diagram 

1, the natural universe is represented by everything within 

THE NATURAL 

a circle. The only things that exist are things that can be 

seen, measured, or proved to exist by scientifi c exploration. 

UNIVERSE 

Notice that the circle is closed—there is absolutely nothing 

outside the circle. In other words, God does not exist. The 

The Earth 

supernatural does not exist. There is no God to cause the 

Other Planets 

natural universe or to control it in anyway. 

Sun, Moon, and Stars 

Galaxies 

GOD 

In Diagram 2, the natural 

universe is represented 

by everything within an 

open circle. Outside 

NOTHING 

this open circle is God. 

Diagram 1 

THE NATURAL 

This God is the One 

UNIVERSE 

who created everything inside the circle. God controls everything 

inside the circle and acts on it to bring about His eternal plan for 

The Earth 

creation. 

Other Planets 

Sun, Moon, and Stars Who Are the Highest Beings? Now let’s explore this question: In a 

Galaxies 

universe without God or any other supernatural beings, who are the 

highest beings? If your answer is human, you’re right. Naturalists 

believe there are no higher living beings than humans. This way 

Diagram 2 

of thinking is called humanism, and people who hold this belief are 

known as humanists. 

In 1933, a group of humanists wrote and signed 

a manifesto or document that listed fi fteen 

beliefs they held about God, the universe, and 

human beings. This document was called the 

Humanist Manifesto I. The writers expressed 

their disbelief in God in these words: “We are 

convinced that the time has passed for theism.” 1 

In other words, these humanists believed that 

the time for believing in God was over. The time 

had come for people to believe that humans are 

the highest beings or forms of life, not God. 


NOTHING 


NOTHING 

211 

In 1973, humanists restated their disbelief in the supernatural in the Humanist 

Manifesto II: " We find insufficient evidence for belief in the existence of a supernatural; 

it is either meaningless or irrelevant to the question of the survival and fulfillment of 

the human race. As non-theists, we begin with humans not God, nature not deity." 3 

And in their most recent manifesto, Humanist Manifesto 2000: A Call for a New 

Planetary Humanism, secular humanists once again reaffirmed their rejection of 

God and their belief in the supreme autonomy of humanity: "As humanists we urge 

today, as in the past, that humans not look beyond themselves for salvation. We 

alone are responsible for our own destiny. . . ." 4 

The Bible says that those who deny God's existence are fools (Psalm 53:1). Scripture 

clearly reveals that those who refuse to acknowledge the God they know exists 

become futile in their thinking and darkened in their hearts. In claiming themselves 

wise, they become fools (Romans 1:21-22). Tragically, those who put their trust 

in human wisdom and strength only are cursed by God and have no hope for the 

future (Jeremiah 17:5-6). 

Teacher-Student Worktext Discussion (SWT pp. 211-214). 

 

Have students turn to Topic 1. Have them read the title. Have them read Two 

Illustrations (SWT p. 211). 






seen, measured, or proved to exist by scientific exploration. 

NOTHING 

NOTHING 

THE NATURAL 

UNIVERSE 

The Earth 

Other Planets 


Galaxies 

NOTHING 

Diagram 1 

NOTHING 



Notice that the circle is closed—there is absolutely nothing outside the circle. 

In other words, God does not exist. The supernatural does not exist. There is 

no God to cause the natural universe or to control it in any way. 

GOD 

THE NATURAL 

UNIVERSE 

The Earth 

Other Planets 


Galaxies 

Diagram 2 

In Diagram 2, the natural universe is represented by everything 

within an open circle. Outside this open circle is God. This God 

is the One Who created everything inside the circle. God controls 

everything inside the circle and acts on it to bring about 

His eternal plan for creation. 

211 



Topic 1 

Naturalism—A Universe Without God 


NOTHING 




THE NATURAL 


seen, measured, or proved to exist by scientific exploration. 

UNIVERSE 

Notice that the circle is closed—there is absolutely nothing 

outside the circle. In other words, God does not exist. The 

The Earth 

supernatural does not exist. There is no God to cause the 

Other Planets 

natural universe or to control it in anyway. 


Galaxies 

GOD 

In Diagram 2, the natural 

universe is represented 

by everything within an 

open circle. Outside 

NOTHING 

this open circle is God. 

Diagram 1 

THE NATURAL 

This God is the One 

UNIVERSE 

who created everything inside the circle. God controls everything 

inside the circle and acts on it to bring about His eternal plan for 

The Earth 

creation. 

Other Planets 

Sun, Moon, and Stars Who Are the Highest Beings? Now let’s explore this question: In a 

Galaxies 

universe without God or any other supernatural beings, who are the 

highest beings? If your answer is human, you’re right. Naturalists 

believe there are no higher living beings than humans. This way 

Diagram 2 

of thinking is called humanism, and people who hold this belief are 

known as humanists. 

NOTHING 

NOTHING 

 


Which diagram represents the biblical Christian worldview? How do 

you know? 

Why is the circle open in Diagram 2? 

Where did the things inside the open circle come from? 

Which diagram represents the naturalist worldview? How do you 

know? 

Why is the circle closed in Diagram 1? 

Where did the things inside the closed circle come from? 

Have students read Who Are the Highest Beings? (SWT pp. 211-212). 

Who Are the Highest Beings? Now let’s explore this question: In a universe 

without God or any other supernatural beings, who are the highest beings? If 

your answer is humans, you’re right. Naturalists believe there are no higher 

living beings than humans. This way of thinking is called humanism, and people 

who hold this belief are known as humanists. 

In 1933, a group of humanists wrote and signed 

a manifesto or document that listed fi fteen 

beliefs they held about God, the universe, and 

human beings. This document was called the 

Humanist Manifesto I. The writers expressed 

their disbelief in God in these words: “We are 

convinced that the time has passed for theism.” 1 

In other words, these humanists believed that 

the time for believing in God was over. The time 

had come for people to believe that humans are 

the highest beings or forms of life, not God. 


211 

In 1933, a group of humanists wrote and signed a 

manifesto or document that listed fifteen beliefs they 

held about God, the universe, and human beings. 

This document was called the Humanist Manifesto I. 

The writers expressed their disbelief in God in these 

words: “We are convinced that the time has passed 

for theism.” 1 In other words, these humanists believed that the time for believing 

in God was over. The time had come for people to believe that humans are the 

highest beings or forms of life, not God. 

Forty years later, another group of humanists published the 

Humanist Manifesto II. Like the writers of the first manifesto, 

they also expressed their disbelief in God. These humanists 

wrote these words: “We find insufficient evidence for belief 

in the existence of a supernatural. As non-theists, we begin 

with humans, not God . . ..” 2 

In the 

beginning God 

created the 

heavens and 

the earth. 

Genesis 1:1 

Humanists continue to write manifestos or documents declaring their disbelief in 

God. In 2000, another group of humanists expressed their disbelief in God with these 

words: “As humanists, we urge today, as in the past, that humans not look beyond 

Lesson 22 

Several years later, another group of humanists published the 

Humanist Manifesto II. Like the writers of the first manifesto, 


wrote these words: “We fi nd insuffi cient evidence for belief in 

the existence of a supernatural. As non-theists, we begin with 

humans, not God . . ..” 2 

Humanists continue to write manifestos or documents declaring their 

disbelief in God. In 2000, another group of humanists expressed 

their disbelief in God with these words: “As humanists, we urge 

today, as in the past, that humans not look beyond themselves for 

salvation. We alone are responsible for our own destiny.” 3 

In the 

beginning God 

created the 

heavens and 

the earth. 

Genesis 1:1 

By destiny, humanists do not mean heaven or hell because they 

do not believe in either. When humanists say they are responsible 

for their own destiny, they mean they are in charge of planning 

and directing their lives. In other words, they are their own highest 

authority. Since God doesn’t exist, they have the right to take 

complete charge of their own lives. 

Humanism 

The atheistic belief that humans are 

the highest of all beings 

The Biblical Christian View: The naturalist belief that people are the highest beings in the universe 

is not in harmony with the biblical Christian view of God and people. The Bible declares that God 

exists and that He is the Supreme Authority 

over all people and the earth. He is the One 

Who determines everything that happens in the 

world. He is the One Who rules over the lives of 

all His image-bearers. God clearly revealed this 

truth to the Old T e stament prophet Daniel. 

20 “Praise the name of God forever and ever, 

for he has all wisdom and power. 

21 He controls the course of world events; 

he removes kings and sets up other kings. 

He gives wisdom to the wise 

and knowledge to the scholars.” 

Daniel 2:20-21 NLT 

212 


212 


197



Lesson 22 


Several years later, another group of humanists published the 

Humanist Manifesto II. Like the writers of the fi rst manifesto, 


wrote these words: “We fi nd insuffi cient evidence for belief in 

the existence of a supernatural. As non-theists, we begin with 

humans, not God . . ..” 2 

Humanists continue to write manifestos or documents declaring their 

disbelief in God. In 2000, another group of humanists expressed 

their disbelief in God with these words: “As humanists, we urge 

today, as in the past, that humans not look beyond themselves for 

salvation. We alone are responsible for our own destiny.” 3 

By destiny, humanists do not mean heaven or hell because they 

do not believe in either. When humanists say they are responsible 

for their own destiny, they mean they are in charge of planning 

and directing their lives. In other words, they are their own highest 

authority. Since God doesn’t exist, they have the right to take 

complete charge of their own lives. 

Humanism 

In the 

beginning God 

created the 

heavens and 

the earth. 

Genesis 1:1 

The atheistic belief that humans are 

the highest of all beings 

The Biblical Christian View: The naturalist belief that people are the highest beings in the universe 

is not in harmony with the biblical Christian view of God and people. The Bible declares that God 

exists and that He is the Supreme Authority 

over all people and the earth. He is the One 

Who determines everything that happens in the 

world. He is the One Who rules over the lives of 

all His image-bearers. God clearly revealed this 

truth to the Old T e stament prophet Daniel. 

20 “Praise the name of God forever and ever, 


21 He controls the course of world events; 




212 

themselves for salvation. We alone are responsible for our own destiny.” 3 


By destiny, humanists do not mean heaven or hell because 

they do not believe in either. When humanists say they are 

responsible for their own destiny, they mean they are in charge 

of planning and directing their lives. In other words, they are 

their own highest authority. Since God doesn’t exist, they have 

the right to take complete charge of their own lives. 

In a naturalist worldview, who are the highest beings in the universe? 

What is humanism? What is a humanist? 

212 


 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 22b, Humanism: The atheistic belief 

that humans are the highest of all beings (SWT p. 212). Discuss to ascertain 



What is the Humanist Manifesto I? When was it written? 

In what words did the writers of Humanist Manifesto I express their 

atheism? 

How did the writers of the Humanist Manifesto II express their disbelief 

in the existence of God? 

How did the writers of the Humanist Manifesto 2000 express their 

disbelief in the existence of God? 

When humanists say people must not look beyond themselves for 

salvation, to Whom are they referring? 

What do humanists mean when they say "We are responsible for our 

own destiny"? 

Have students read The Biblical Christian View (SWT pp. 212-213). 

The Biblical Christian View: The naturalist belief 

that people are the highest beings in the universe is 

not in harmony with the biblical Christian view of God 

and people. The Bible declares that God exists and 

that He is the Supreme Authority over all people and 

the earth. He is the One Who determines everything 

that happens in the world. He is the One Who rules 

over the lives of all His image-bearers. God clearly revealed this truth to the 

Old Testament prophet Daniel. 

20 

“Praise the name of God forever and ever, 


21 

He controls the course of world events; 






1 Sagan, Carl. Cosmos. New Y o rk: Random House, 1980, p. 1. 

2 Humanist Manifesto I. Buffalo, NY: Prometheus Books, 1933, p. 8. 

3 Humanist Manifesto II. Buffalo, NY: Prometheus Books, 1973, p. 16. 

4 Kurtz, Paul. Humanist Manifesto 2000: A Call for a New Planetary Humanism. Amherst, NY: Prometheus Books, 2000, p. 63. 


King David described the folly of people who refuse to believe in God in one 

of his psalms. 

The fool says in his heart, 

“There is no God.” 

Psalm 53:1 

The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah described God’s judgment against people 

who set themselves up as the highest authority in their lives. 

5 


“Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, 


and turn their hearts away from the LORD. 

6 

They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, 

with no hope for the future. 

They will live in the barren wilderness, 

in an uninhabited salty land.” 

Jeremiah 17:5-6 NLT 


213 


King David described the folly of people who refuse to believe 

in God in one of his psalms. 

The fool says in his heart, 

“There is no God.” 

Psalm 53:1 

The Old T e stament prophet Jeremiah described God’s 

judgment against people who set themselves up as the highest 

authority in their lives. 

5 This is what the LORD says: 



and turn their hearts away from the LORD. 

6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, 

with no hope for the future. 

They will live in the barren wilderness, 

in an uninhabited salty land.” 


In contrast to the judgment God promises will come to people who 

trust only in themselves, Jeremiah also told of the great blessings 

God promises to people who believe and trust in Him. 

7 “But blessed are those who trust in the LORD 

and have made the LORD their hope and confi dence. 

8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank, 

with roots that reach deep into the water. 

Such trees are not bothered by the heat 

or worried by long months of drought. 

Their leaves stay green, 

and they never stop producing fruit.” 



213 

In contrast to the judgment God promises will come to people who trust only in 

themselves, Jeremiah also told of the great blessings God promises to people 

who believe and trust in Him. 

7 

“But blessed are those who trust in the LORD 

and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. 

8 

They are like trees planted along a riverbank, 

with roots that reach deep into the water. 

Such trees are not bothered by the heat 

or worried by long months of drought. 

Their leaves stay green, 

and they never stop producing fruit.” 



According to the Old Testament book of Daniel, in what ways does 

the biblical Christian worldview differ from the naturalist worldview? 

How does the Bible describe the naturalist? Why? 

According to the Old Testament book of Jeremiah, whom do humanists 

trust? On what do they rely? 

How does God curse those who reject Him and place humans as the 

highest authority and source of strength in their lives? 

Why do you think Jeremiah uses the word picture of a stunted shrub 

in the desert to describe naturalists? 

According to Jeremiah, whom does God bless and not curse? 

Why do you think Jeremiah uses the word picture of a tree growing 

on a riverbank to describe those who believe in and trust God? 


199


Lesson 22 


214 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Lesson 22 Memory Verse, Jeremiah 17:5 NLT. 

Have students read and recite the verse (SWT p. 214). Discuss in relation to 

the contrast between the biblical Christian and naturalist views of God. 

Lesson 22 Memory Verse 




and turn their hearts away from the LORD.” 


 

This is what the LORD says, 

"Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, 


and turn their hearts away from the LORD." 



214 

“The cosmos is all there is 

or ever was 

or ever will be.” 4 

Carl Sagan, 

Naturalist Scientist 

1934-1996 


When people reject God, what is their only source of wisdom and 

strength? 

How does God respond to people who reject Him and put themselves 

in His place? Why? 


215-216), Scripture Search (SWT pp. 217-218), and Hiding God's Word (SWT 





topic 2. can god's existence be proved? 


The Bible does not attempt to prove the existence of God. It does not begin with a list 

of Ten Proofs That God Exists. Rather, it makes the dramatic and familiar statement, 

"In the beginning God . . .." (Genesis 1:1). Scripture tells us that believing in the 

existence of God is a prerequisite to knowing Him personally and to having His 

existence substantiated to us (Hebrew 11:6). However, faith in the existence of God 

is not a "leap in the dark" without any support. In Paul's letter to the Roman church, 

the apostle clearly explains that God provides visible evidence of His existence: 

"For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power 

and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been 

made, so that men are without excuse" (Romans 1:20). In addition, theologians and 

philosophers have developed compelling arguments for God's existence. Three of 

these arguments are discussed briefly below. 

1. The Cosmological Argument: Derived from the Greek word cosmos, meaning 

universe, this is an argument that looks at the world and then argues from the law of 

cause and effect. The existence of an effect reveals the existence of a cause. With 

reference to the existence of God, the argument is based upon three premises: 

(1)The universe had a beginning. 

(2) Anything that had a beginning must have been caused by something 

else. 



(3) Therefore, the universe was caused by something else. 


All things must be traced to a first cause. From a biblical perspective, this first cause 

is God (Genesis 1:1). 

2. The Teleological Argument: Derived from the Greek word telos, meaning purpose, 

this is an argument from design and purpose. Not only does the universe exist, there 

is a clear and orderly design to it. All parts of the universe have a purpose, and 

each part exists in harmony with the others. Moreover, purpose in creation reveals 

a purposeful Creator. Accidental or natural causes could not possibly produce the 

intricacies found in the universe any more than wind could have carved Mount 

Rushmore or a cosmic explosion could have produced a watch, a computer, or a 

work of literature. This argument from design and purpose proves the existence 

of an intelligent Designer greater than the creation itself. The Designer, the Bible 

affirms, is God. 

3. The Moral Argument: Human beings are moral beings. They possess an inner sense 

of right and wrong and almost universally advocate that certain things are universally 

right or just (honesty, protection of life, respect of personal property, marriage fidelity, 

etc.), and that some things are universally wrong or unjust (murder, adultery, lying, 

stealing, etc.). They also possess a sense of responsibility to do what is right and 

to avoid doing what is wrong. The moral argument reasons that the existence of 

a universal moral law within humans along with the sense of responsibility to do 

right implies the existence of a Moral Law Giver above and beyond human beings 

(Romans 2:14-15). The Law Giver, the Bible affirms, is God. 





Do you think God's existence can be proved? Why? Why not? 

 

Have students read The Bible Doesn't Try to Prove That God Exists (SWT p. 

221). 

The Bible Doesn’t Try to Prove That God Exists. While humanist manifestos 

deny that God exists, the Bible declares His eternal existence in its very first 

sentence: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 

1:1). Notice that the Bible does not begin with a list of 

ten ways to prove that God exists. It simply tells us 

that He exists and that He is the One Who created 

everything. In fact, the biblical Christian worldview 

begins with faith in God rather than proof that He exists. 

God revealed this important truth to the writer of 

the New Testament book of Hebrews. 

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes 

221 

Topic 2 

Can God‛s Existence Be Proved? 

The Bible Doesn’t Try to Prove That God Exists. While humanist manifestos deny that God exists, 

the Bible declares His eternal existence in its very first sentence: “In the beginning, God created the 

heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). Notice 

that the Bible does not begin with a list of ten 

ways to prove that God exists. It simply tells 

us that He exists and that He is the One Who 

created everything. In fact, the biblical Christian 

worldview begins with faith in God rather than 

proof that He exists. God revealed this important 

truth to the writer of the New T e stament book 

of Hebrews. 

And without faith it is impossible to please God, 

because anyone who comes to him must believe 

that he exists and that he rewards those who 

earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11 :6 

This Scripture does not mean that we should ignore the evidence for God’s existence. But it does say 

that we must believe by faith that God exists. Then God will reveal Himself and truths about Himself 

to those who earnestly seek to know Him. Do you remember what Jesus said to Thomas, His disciple 

who said he wouldn’t believe Jesus had been raised from the dead unless he saw Him in person? 

“Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are 

those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 

Evidence for God’s Existence: There are many ways naturalists 

communicate their belief that God does not exist. Some write 

science textbooks stating that the universe and everything in it 

have evolved accidentally from eternal matter. Some communicate 

their beliefs through songs or literature. Some communicate their 

message through movies and television dramas. Because the 

naturalist message that God does not exist is so powerful and 

common today, it’s important to remember three strong evidences 

for God’s existence that we studied in Lesson 11 . 

1. Everything That Exists or Happens Has a Cause. Think 

about what you ate for breakfast this morning. Did the cereal, 

milk, toast, eggs, bacon, or other foods just appear on your table 

from nothing? How did these foods get into your kitchen in the 



The Origin 

of 

Species 

by 

Charles Darwin 

221 


201




to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly 

seek him. Hebrews 11:6 

This Scripture does not mean that we should ignore the evidence for God’s 

existence. But it does say that we must believe by faith that God exists. Then 

God will reveal Himself and truths about Himself to those who earnestly seek 

to know Him. Do you remember what Jesus said to Thomas, His disciple who 

said he wouldn’t believe Jesus had been raised from the dead unless he saw 

Him in person? 

“Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have 

not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 


How does the Bible begin? 

What does the Bible not attempt to do? 

Do you think you can absolutely prove God's existence through science 

and reason? Why? Why not? 

Even though science and reason provide good evidence for God's 

existence, what is required in order to believe in God? 

221 

Topic 2 

Can God‛s Existence Be Proved? 

The Bible Doesn’t Try to Prove That God Exists. While humanist manifestos deny that God exists, 

the Bible declares His eternal existence in its very fi rst sentence: “In the beginning, God created the 

heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). Notice 

that the Bible does not begin with a list of ten 

ways to prove that God exists. It simply tells 

us that He exists and that He is the One Who 

created everything. In fact, the biblical Christian 

worldview begins with faith in God rather than 

proof that He exists. God revealed this important 

truth to the writer of the New T e stament book 

of Hebrews. 

And without faith it is impossible to please God, 

because anyone who comes to him must believe 

that he exists and that he rewards those who 

earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11 :6 

This Scripture does not mean that we should ignore the evidence for God’s existence. But it does say 

that we must believe by faith that God exists. Then God will reveal Himself and truths about Himself 

to those who earnestly seek to know Him. Do you remember what Jesus said to Thomas, His disciple 

who said he wouldn’t believe Jesus had been raised from the dead unless he saw Him in person? 

“Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are 

those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 

Evidence for God’s Existence: There are many ways naturalists 

communicate their belief that God does not exist. Some write 

science textbooks stating that the universe and everything in it 

have evolved accidentally from eternal matter. Some communicate 

their beliefs through songs or literature. Some communicate their 

message through movies and television dramas. Because the 

naturalist message that God does not exist is so powerful and 

common today, it’s important to remember three strong evidences 

for God’s existence that we studied in Lesson 11 . 

1. Everything That Exists or Happens Has a Cause. Think 

about what you ate for breakfast this morning. Did the cereal, 

milk, toast, eggs, bacon, or other foods just appear on your table 

from nothing? How did these foods get into your kitchen in the 

Lesson 22 



The Origin 

of 

Species 

by 


first place? How did they get into the grocery store? How 

were the cereal, bread, eggs, and bacon made before they 

arrived at the market? If you follow the chain of events 

further back, you realize that a cause exists for every step 

it takes to grow, prepare, market, buy, cook, and place 

food on your table. 

This example, of course, is only one illustration of the 

truth that everything that exists or happens has a cause— 

everything, that is, except God Himself. God is uncaused. 

If He were caused, there would be someone or something 

more powerful than God that caused Him to exist. But 

the Bible tells us that God is eternal. He has no cause. 

He has no beginning or end. He has always been and 

always will be. In fact, the eternal, uncaused God is the 

cause for the heavens and earth and everything in them. 

This truth was revealed to Moses, who wrote the oldest 

psalm in the Old T e stament Book of Psalms. 

Before the mountains were born, 

before you gave birth to the earth and the world, 

you were God. 

You are God from everlasting to everlasting. 

Psalm 90:2 God’s Word 

The very existence of the heavens and earth is powerful 

evidence of God’s eternal existence. The apostle Paul 

wrote in a letter to Christians in the city of Rome that 

creation clearly reveals to all people that its cause 

is the eternal, all-powerful God. Creation reveals its 

cause so clearly, in fact, that people have no excuse 

for not giving God glory and thanks for it. 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible 

qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have 

been clearly seen, being understood from what has 

been made, so that men are without excuse. 

Romans 1:20 

2. The Universe That Exists Has Perfect Design and Order. People not only believe in God because 

they know the universe must have a cause, they also believe in God because they see perfect design 

in everything that exists. By God’s inspiration, King David described the incredible design of the 

earth, including its stability in space, its land and water forms, and the permanent boundaries of the 

oceans. 

222 


221 

222 

 

Have students read Evidence for God's Existence and 1. Everything That Exists 

or Happens Has a Cause (SWT pp. 221-222 ). 

Evidence for God’s Existence: There are many ways 

naturalists communicate their belief that God does not exist. 

Some write science textbooks stating that the universe and 

everything in it have evolved accidentally from eternal matter. 

Some communicate their beliefs through songs or literature. 

Some communicate their message through movies and television 

dramas. Because the naturalist message that God does 

not exist is so powerful and common today, it’s important to 

remember three strong evidences for God’s existence that 

we studied in Lesson 11. 

The Origin 

of 

Species 

by 


1. Everything That Exists or Happens Has a Cause. 

Think about what you ate for breakfast this morning. Did 

the cereal, milk, toast, eggs, bacon, or other foods just 

appear on your table from nothing? How did these foods 

get into your kitchen in the first place? How did they get 

into the grocery store? How were the cereal, bread, eggs, 

and bacon made before they arrived at the market? If you 

follow the chain of events further back, you realize that a 

cause exists for every step it takes to grow, prepare, market, buy, cook, and 

serve food on your table. 

This example, of course, is only one illustration of the truth that everything that 

exists or happens has a cause—everything, that is, except God Himself. God 

is uncaused. If He were caused, there would be someone or something more 

powerful than God that caused Him to exist. But the Bible tells us that God is 




eternal. He has no cause. He has no beginning or end. He has always been and 

always will be. In fact, the eternal, uncaused God is the cause for the heavens 

and earth and everything in them. This truth was revealed to Moses, who wrote 

the oldest psalm in the Old Testament book of Psalms. 


Lesson 22 

fi rst place? How did they get into the grocery store? How 

were the cereal, bread, eggs, and bacon made before they 

arrived at the market? If you follow the chain of events 

further back, you realize that a cause exists for every step 

it takes to grow, prepare, market, buy, cook, and place 

food on your table. 

222 



you were God. 





wrote in a letter to Christians in the city of Rome that creation clearly reveals 

to all people that its cause is the eternal, all-powerful God. Creation reveals its 

cause so clearly, in fact, that people have no excuse for not giving God glory 

and thanks for it. 

This example, of course, is only one illustration of the 

truth that everything that exists or happens has a cause— 

everything, that is, except God Himself. God is uncaused. 

If He were caused, there would be someone or something 

more powerful than God that caused Him to exist. But 

the Bible tells us that God is eternal. He has no cause. 

He has no beginning or end. He has always been and 

always will be. In fact, the eternal, uncaused God is the 

cause for the heavens and earth and everything in them. 

This truth was revealed to Moses, who wrote the oldest 

psalm in the Old T e stament Book of Psalms. 



you were God. 





wrote in a letter to Christians in the city of Rome that 

creation clearly reveals to all people that its cause 

is the eternal, all-powerful God. Creation reveals its 

cause so clearly, in fact, that people have no excuse 

for not giving God glory and thanks for it. 

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible 

qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have 

been clearly seen, being understood from what has 

been made, so that men are without excuse. 

Romans 1:20 

2. The Universe That Exists Has Perfect Design and Order. People not only believe in God because 

they know the universe must have a cause, they also believe in God because they see perfect design 

in everything that exists. By God’s inspiration, King David described the incredible design of the 

earth, including its stability in space, its land and water forms, and the permanent boundaries of the 

oceans. 

222 


For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power 

and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has 

been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 


How strong or widespread is the naturalist message (worldview) today? 

Where do you see evidence of the existence of the naturalist worldview 

today? 

Why is it important to explore evidence for God's existence today? 

Can something happen without a cause? Why not? 

Think about a bowl of cereal on the breakfast table. Try to make a list 

(working backwards) of the things that caused that bowl of cereal to 

exist on your breakfast table. 

Help students create this list. Jot down as many causes as time allows. 

What is the only exception to the truth that all things or events have 

a cause? 

If God were caused, what or who would be His cause? 

If something or someone caused God, what would its cause be? 

Is there ever an end to the long line of the causes of things and 

events? Why? 

With Whom does the list have to stop? 

Who is the uncaused "Causer" of all things? 

What does Scripture say about God that tells us He is the uncaused 

"Causer" of the universe and everything in it? 

How clearly does creation reveal that God exists and that He is the 

Creator? What does the creation reveal about God? 

What does the creation not allow people to have or make? 


203



Have students read 2. The Universe That Exists Has Perfect Design and Order 

(SWT pp. 222-223). 

 

2. The Universe That Exists Has Perfect Design and Order. People not 

only believe in God because they know the universe must have a cause, they 

also believe in God because they see perfect design in everything that exists. 

By God’s inspiration, King David described the incredible design of the earth, 

including its stability in space, its land and water forms, and the permanent 

boundaries of the oceans. 

223 

5 You placed the world on its foundation 

so it would never be moved. 

6 You clothed the earth with fl oods of water, 

water that covered even the mountains. 

7 At your command, the water fl ed; 

at the sound of your thunder, it hurried away. 

8 Mountains rose and valleys sank 

to the levels you decreed. 

9 Then you set a fi rm boundary for the seas, 

so they would never again cover the earth. 


God made a promise to Noah after the fl ood that revealed His 

design and control of night and day and the seasons. 

“As long as the earth endures, 

seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, 

summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” 

Genesis 8:22 

But is all this order and design really evidence that God exists? 

T o fi nd out, let’s think about these questions: Could a watch 

exist without a watchmaker? Could a skyscraper exist without 

an architect? Could a watch keep time if each of its pieces were 

not perfectly designed 

and fi t together with other 

perfectly designed pieces? 

Could a skyscraper provide 

safe and comfortable 

apartments and offi ces if 

its elevators, plumbing, 

electricity, and heating and cooling systems were not perfectly 

designed to work in harmony with all the other parts and systems? 

Could the earth continue to exist without its perfect design and 

balance of air and water, plants and animals, seasons, and exact 

distance from the sun? Of course not. Watches and skyscrapers 

reveal careful design. So does the earth. This evidence from 

design and purpose leads people to acknowledge the existence 

of a supremely wise watchmaker or architect, Who is much 

greater than the universe itself. For people who hold a theistic 

worldview such as biblical Christianity, the wise watchmaker or 

architect is God. 



223 

5 

You placed the world on its foundation 

so it would never be moved. 

6 

You clothed the earth with floods of water, 

water that covered even the mountains. 

7 

At your command, the water fled; 

at the sound of your thunder, it hurried away. 

8 

Mountains rose and valleys sank 

to the levels you decreed. 

9 

Then you set a firm boundary for the seas, 

so they would never again cover the earth. 


God made a promise to Noah after the flood that revealed His 

design and control of night and day and the seasons. 

“As long as the earth endures, 

seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, 

summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” 

Genesis 8:22 

But is all this order and design really evidence that God exists? To find out, let’s 

think about these questions: Could a watch exist without a watchmaker? Could 

a skyscraper exist without an architect? Could a watch keep time if each of its 

pieces were not perfectly designed and fit together with other perfectly designed 

pieces? Could a skyscraper provide safe and comfortable apartments and offices 

if its elevators, plumbing, electricity, and heating and cooling systems were 

not perfectly designed to work in harmony with all the other parts and systems? 

Could the earth continue to exist without its perfect design 

and balance of air and water, plants and animals, seasons, 

and exact distance from the sun? Of course not. Watches and 

skyscrapers reveal careful design. So does the earth. This evidence 

from design and purpose leads people to acknowledge 

the existence of a supremely wise watchmaker or architect, 

Who is much greater than the universe itself. For people who 

hold a theistic worldview such as biblical Christianity, the wise 

watchmaker or architect is God. 






When you look at a watch or a skyscraper, why do you know that it 

was not caused by an accident? 

What has to cause a watch or skyscraper to exist? 

What evidence do you see in the universe that tells you clearly it is 

not an accident? 

Why is order and design in the universe such strong evidence for 

God's existence? 

Have students read 3. All People Possess an Inner Sense of Right and Wrong 

(SWT p. 224). 

 

3. All People Possess an Inner Sense of Right and Wrong. Although people 

with different worldviews hold many different beliefs about God, almost all people 

share similar beliefs about things that are right to do and things that are wrong 

to do. For example, most people agree that it is good and right to help someone 

who is in danger or someone who is suffering. Most people agree that it is bad 

and wrong to lie and steal. Most people agree that it 

is wrong to murder, kidnap, or abuse another person. 

And most people, even with very different worldviews, 

agree that it is wrong for married people to be unfaithful 

to one another by having a relationship with someone 

else’s husband or wife. 

Lesson 22 

3. All People Possess an Inner Sense of Right and Wrong. Although people with different worldviews 

hold many different beliefs about God, almost all people share similar beliefs about things that are 

right to do and things that are wrong to do. For example, most people agree that it is good and right 

to help someone who is in danger or someone 

who is suffering. Most people agree that it is 

bad and wrong to lie and steal. Most people 

agree that it is wrong to murder, kidnap, or 

abuse another person. And most people, even 

with very different worldviews, agree that it is 

wrong for married people to be unfaithful to one 

another by having a relationship with someone 

else’s husband or wife. 

Most people also have an inborn sense of 

responsibility to do what they believe is right 

and to avoid doing what they believe is wrong. 

This inner light that guides people to do right and avoid doing wrong is called conscience. Every human 

being born since the creation of the world has this inner light or conscience. Of course, since the fall, 

people’s consciences are imperfect. Unfortunately, people don’t always follow their conscience even 

when it clearly tells them something is wrong or right to do. When people don’t listen to and follow the 

leading of their conscience, they experience guilt feelings and fears of being caught and punished for 

doing what they know is wrong or failing to do what they know is right. Conscience works like an alarm 

system in a car that sounds off to remind us we haven’t fastened our seat belts. 

This fact that all people, even with different worldviews, believe that certain things are right and certain 

things are wrong is another evidence that God exists. People don’t need to be taught that certain 

behaviors, like stealing and lying, are wrong. They know. And their knowing has a cause. The cause 

is God. God is the great Lawgiver, Who created people with a built-in awareness of right and wrong. 

In the New T e stament book of Romans, 

the apostle Paul describes the inner light 

or conscience that all people possess. 

14 Even Gentiles, who do not have 

God’s written law, show that they know 

his law when they instinctively obey 

it, even without having heard it. 15 They 

demonstrate that God’s law is written 

in their hearts, for their own conscience 

and thoughts either accuse them or tell 

them they are doing right. 

224 

Most people also have an inborn sense of responsibility to do what they believe 

is right and to avoid doing what they believe is wrong. This inner light that guides 

people to do right and avoid doing wrong is called conscience. Every human 

being born since the creation of the world has this inner light or conscience. Of 

course, since the fall, people’s consciences are imperfect. Unfortunately, people 

don’t always follow their conscience even when it clearly tells them something 

is wrong or right to do. When people don’t listen to and follow the leading of 

their conscience, they experience guilt feelings and fears of being caught and 

punished for doing what they know is wrong or failing to do what they know is 

right. Conscience works like an alarm system in a car that sounds off to remind 

us we haven’t fastened our seat belts. 

224 


This fact that all people, even with different worldviews, believe that certain 

things are right and certain things are wrong is another evidence that God exists. 

People don’t need to be taught that certain behaviors, like stealing and 

lying, are wrong. They know. And their knowing has a cause. The cause is 

God. God is the great Lawgiver, Who created people with a built-in awareness 

of right and wrong. 

In the New Testament book of Romans, the apostle 

Paul describes the inner light or conscience that 

all people possess. 

14 

Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, 

show that they know his law when they instinctively 


205



obey it, even without having heard it. 15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written 

in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them 

or tell them they are doing right. Romans 2:14-15 NLT 


What beliefs do people with different worldviews share? 

Give some examples of moral values people with different worldviews 

hold in common. 

How do people know, usually without being taught, that cruelty, murder, 

stealing, adultery, lying, and cowardice are wrong? 

How do people who don't even know God's written laws show that 

they know His moral laws? 

Why is moral awareness a good evidence for God's existence? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Writing About It (SWT pp. 






topic 3. the naturalist view of truth 

Truth is that which agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately explains reality. 

We don't invent truth; rather, we discover it. We can discover much truth empirically 

through observation, using our senses. Whatever we can repeatedly observe, 

measure, and calculate we believe is true. But our senses are not a foolproof method 

of knowing truth. They can and do deceive us, or we simply cannot see all there is 

to see and thus come to untruthful conclusions. 

We also discover much truth through reason. As rational creatures, we have the 

capacity to analyze, hypothesize, and come to know truth that is not knowable through 

empirical evidence alone. Like our senses, however, our rational processes don't 

always lead us to truth. As fallen creatures, we often construct concepts we think 

are true, which in reality are only human constructs and not truth itself. 

While some naturalists are post modernists and hold that truth cannot be known 

about anything (except the self-refuting belief that truth cannot be known about 

anything), many naturalists assert objectivity, absolute truth, and some moral certainty 

even while denying the existence of God. They believe they have a responsibility 

to the truth that does exist—that is that which can be evaluated and discovered 

through science and reason alone. These methods for ascertaining truth apply to 

all truth claims, including those of popular culture, science, religion, and personal 

morality. 

While both Christianity and naturalism acknowledge that there is truth to be discovered 

through the senses and reason, biblical Christianity affirms that there is also truth to 



be apprehended beyond the limits imposed by our fallible senses and reason. This 

is truth that can be known only through revelation, the uncovering of truth by God 

for our understanding. This is truth revealed by the One Who is Truth, and it is this 

unchanging, transcendent truth to which we are to conform our thinking. 


God reveals truth about His existence and nature through creation (Romans 1:19- 

20). He also reveals moral truth within the heart and conscience of each imagebearer. 

Though imperfect since the fall, moral awareness accounts for the universal 

acknowledgement that certain behaviors are right and others are wrong. The 

revelation of truth through creation and conscience is known as general revelation. 

Such revelation, however, provides only limited knowledge about God and the 

nature, purpose, and destiny of humanity and the cosmos. 

Naturalists, of course, reject the truth of God's existence, and therefore reject the 

concept of general revelation. They construct naturalistic theories for the origin and 

nature of the universe as well as for universal moral awareness. A predominate theory 

for the existence of the universe is that matter is eternal since it is unreasonable 

to assume that matter could create itself out of nothing. And without a Designer/ 

Creator to shape eternal matter into a universe, the only possible explanation for its 

existence is a random, purposeless process of chemical reactions and evolutionary 

natural selection. Naturalists deny that moral values are evidence of or flow from a 

supreme moral being. Rather, they are the result of evolution and human choice, 

meaning they are relative to the evolutionary stages of life and to particular situations 

in which people determine what is right or wrong. 

Beyond general revelation, God progressively reveals more truth about Himself and 

His plan for creation through Scripture and the incarnation of Christ. This is known 

as special revelation. What we assume to be true about God and His existence 

through creation is verified and then amplified in the words of Scripture. Truth that 

has been verified and amplified in the words of Scripture has been even more 

completely verified and demonstrated in Person in the incarnation of Jesus, the 

Word made flesh. The Holy Spirit indwells and illumines believers (1 Corinthians 

2:6-16), allowing a more accurate understanding of God, humanity, creation, evil, 

salvation, and many other aspects of reality. Within this framework of God's revealed 

truth we must strive to validate the truthfulness of what we claim to be truth derived 

through our senses and reason. 

Naturalists, of course, also reject special revelation. They concur that the existence 

of the Bible and the life of Jesus on earth are objective truths. But they deny that 

the Bible and the life of Jesus on earth are special revelation of God's truth. They 

understand the Bible as a product of human endeavor and Jesus as merely a 

notable, but certainly not divine, human being. 





207




You've learned that naturalists do not believe in God. What do you 

think they believe about truth and where it is found? 

Have students read What Is Truth? (SWT p. 227). 

227 What Is Truth? You’ve learned that worldviews are based upon what people 

There Is No God, and That‛s the Truth 

Topic 3 

believe is true about God, people, the universe, moral laws and values, and 

The Naturalist View of Truth 

What Is Tr uth? You’ve learned that worldviews are based upon what people believe is true about God, even truth itself. Whether people are Christians or Muslims or naturalists, they 

people, the universe, moral laws and values, and even truth itself. Whether people are Christians or 

Muslims or naturalists, they believe only in ideas or things they think are true. They never intentionally 

include beliefs in their worldview that they know are false (even though some of their beliefs may be 

false). So how do people arrive at the beliefs in their worldview that they hold as true? Before answering 

this important question, let’s review the meaning of truth. 

believe only in ideas or things they think are true. They never intentionally 

Tr uth is that which agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately 

explains what is real. For example, 2 + 2 = 5 is not 

true because it does not agree with the reality that 2 + 2 = 4. 

include beliefs in their worldview that they know are false 

And to say that a round object is square is also untrue. This is 

because such a statement does not agree with the reality that 

no object can be two shapes at the same time. The minute 

you force something square into another shape, it is no longer 

(even though some of their beliefs may be false). So how do 

square. 

Truth is always objective. This means that it is true regardless of 

what people think or feel. The fact that someone may believe or 

people arrive at the beliefs in their worldview that they hold as 

feel that the world is flat does not change the objective truth that the 

world is round. Objective truth also applies to morals. The fact that 

someone thinks or feels it is not wrong to cheat and steal does not 

change the objective truth that such behavior is morally wrong. 

true? Before answering this important question, let’s review 

How Do We K now Tr uth? So how do people decide whether 

something is true or not? If someone tells you it’s 100 degrees 

outside, the sun is shining, and it’s snowing, how do you know 

the meaning of truth. 

if he or she is telling the truth? Y o u could go outside and let 


your senses tell you. You might feel that the temperature is 

100 degrees and you might see that the sun is shining. But 

you wouldn’t see or feel any snow. Of course, there’s another 

way you could tell whether the person was telling the truth or 

not. You wouldn’t need to go outside and feel or see anything. 

Based on what you’ve learned about weather and seasons, 

you could very well reason with your mind that such a statement 

could not be true. 

We can come to know many things that are true through our 

senses and reason. A Christian, a Muslim, and a naturalist can 

each determine either through reason or their senses that the 

statement about a snowstorm on a hot summer day is not true. 

227 

Truth is that which agrees with, accurately describes, and 

accurately explains what is real. For example, 2 + 2 = 5 is 

not true because it does not agree with the reality that 2 + 2 = 4. And to say 

that a round object is square is also untrue. This is because such a statement 

does not agree with the reality that no object can be two shapes at the same 

time. The minute you force something square into another shape, it is no longer 

square. 

Truth is always objective. This means that it is true regardless of what people 

think or feel. The fact that someone may believe or feel that the world is flat 

does not change the objective truth that the world is round. Objective truth 

also applies to morals. The fact that someone thinks or feels it is not wrong 

to cheat and steal does not change the objective truth that such behavior is 

morally wrong. 


What do people believe about the beliefs that make up their worldview? 

Why? 

What is truth? 

WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 10a, Truth: That which agrees with, accurately 

describes, and accurately explains what is real. Discuss to ascertain 



What makes something untrue? 

Is the mathematical equation 3 x 3 = 12 true? Why not? 

Suppose you don't think or feel that 3 x 3 = 9. Does what you think or 

feel make the equation untrue? Why not? 

What do we mean when we say that truth is objective? 



WRITE OR DISPLAY BLM Definition 16c, Objective: Existing as a reality 

independently of what we may think or feel. Discuss to ascertain students' 

understanding. 



Give an example of an objective moral truth that some people would 

disagree with. Does their disagreement make this moral truth untrue? 

Why not? 

Have students read How Do We Know Truth? (SWT pp. 227-228). 

 

How Do We Know Truth? So how do people decide whether 



if he or she is telling the truth? You could go outside and let 






Based on what you’ve learned about weather and seasons, you could very well 

reason with your mind that such a statement could not be true. 




statement about a snowstorm on a hot summer day is not true. But 

you’ve also learned that our senses and reason don’t always lead 

Figure 1 

to us to truth. Our eyes can play tricks on us as they do when we 

look at the lines in Figure 1. Sometimes we fail to reason correctly because we 

don’t have all the facts. Then we reach conclusions that are simply not true. 

There is another way many people believe they can come to know truth. As you 

learned in Unit 3, Christians and Muslim believe some truth can be known only 

by revelation from God. For example, Islam and biblical Christianity declare 

that God reveals moral truth through conscience. Christianity and Islam are 

also based on the belief that God reveals truth about His existence through His 

creation. And both Christians and Muslims believe some truth can be known 

only through God’s written revelation, either in the Bible or in the Qur’an. Of 

course, this does not mean that everything Muslims believe is revealed truth 

from Allah is actually truth. But it does mean that both Christians and Muslims 

believe there is some truth that can be known only through revelation. 

227 

Topic 3 

The Naturalist View of Truth 


What Is Tr uth? You’ve learned that worldviews are based upon what people believe is true about God, 

people, the universe, moral laws and values, and even truth itself. Whether people are Christians or 

Muslims or naturalists, they believe only in ideas or things they think are true. They never intentionally 

include beliefs in their worldview that they know are false (even though some of their beliefs may be 

false). So how do people arrive at the beliefs in their worldview that they hold as true? Before answering 

this important question, let’s review the meaning of truth. 

Tr uth is that which agrees with, accurately describes, and accurately 

explains what is real. For example, 2 + 2 = 5 is not 

true because it does not agree with the reality that 2 + 2 = 4. 

And to say that a round object is square is also untrue. This is 

because such a statement does not agree with the reality that 

no object can be two shapes at the same time. The minute 

you force something square into another shape, it is no longer 

square. 

Truth is always objective. This means that it is true regardless of 

what people think or feel. The fact that someone may believe or 

feel that the world is fl at does not change the objective truth that the 

world is round. Objective truth also applies to morals. The fact that 

someone thinks or feels it is not wrong to cheat and steal does not 

change the objective truth that such behavior is morally wrong. 

How Do We K now Tr uth? So how do people decide whether 



if he or she is telling the truth? Y o u could go outside and let 






Based on what you’ve learned about weather and seasons, 

you could very well reason with your mind that such a statement 

could not be true. 




statement about a snowstorm on a hot summer day is not true. 

Lesson 22 


But you’ve also learned that our senses and reason don’t always lead 

to us to truth. Our eyes can play tricks on us as they do when we look 

at the lines in Figure 1. Sometimes we fail to reason correctly because 

we don’t have all the facts. Then we reach conclusions that are simply 

not true. 

There is another way many people believe they can come to know truth. 

As you learned in Unit 3, Christians and Muslim believe some truth can 

be known only by revelation from God. For example, Islam and biblical 

Christianity declare that God reveals moral truth through conscience. 

Christianity and Islam are also based on the belief that God reveals 

Figure 1 

truth about His existence through His creation. And both Christians and 

Muslims believe some truth can be known only through God’s written revelation, either in the Bible or 

in the Qur’an. Of course, this does not mean that everything Muslims believe is revealed truth from 

Allah is actually truth. But it does mean that both Christians and Muslims believe there is some truth 

that can be known only through revelation. 

Tr uth 

That which agrees with, accurately describes, 

and accurately explains what is real 

The Naturalist View of Tr uth: Now let’s apply what you know about truth to naturalism. First, most 

(but not all) naturalists believe there is such a thing as objective truth. For example, they would agree 

that the existence of the physical universe is an objective truth. They believe its existence is real or 

true because they can observe it with their senses. Naturalists also believe that through their senses, 

reason, and science they can discover many objective 

truths about the universe. For example, you 

would probably never hear a naturalist deny the 

objective truth of the law of gravity. They know the 

truth of this law because they can observe things 

being held in place on the earth’s surface. And 

they know the truth of this law because they can 

observe things in the earth’s atmosphere returning 

back to earth. No naturalist would ever jump off a 

skyscraper thinking he could defy the law of gravity. 

He knows the law of gravity is an objective truth, 

whether he likes it or not. And no naturalist scientists 

would ever design and launch a space shuttle 

without confi dence in the laws of gravity and other 

laws of the universe. They design rockets power- 

228 

Objective 

Existing as a reality independently of what we 

may think or feel 


227 

228 


How could you determine if a weather alert reporting clear skies, hot 

temperatures, and heavy snowfall all in the same place on the same 

day is truthful? 

What kinds of things can we determine are true or untrue through our 

senses? 


209



How perfectly can we know or discover truth through our senses? 

Why? 

Give some examples of our senses deceiving us. 

If your teacher told you that 6 x 6 + 18 - 4 = 42, would she be telling 

you the truth? How would you know? 

If someone declared that a house could design and create itself, 

would he or she be telling you the truth? How would you know? 

How perfectly does reason lead us to truth? Why does reason sometimes 

fail to lead us to truth? 

What is another way we come to know truth besides through our 

senses and reasoning? 

What are some truths we could never know if God did not reveal 

them to us? 

Have students read The Naturalist View of Truth (SWT pp. 228-229). 

Lesson 22 

But you’ve also learned that our senses and reason don’t always lead 

to us to truth. Our eyes can play tricks on us as they do when we look 

at the lines in Figure 1. Sometimes we fail to reason correctly because 

we don’t have all the facts. Then we reach conclusions that are simply 

not true. 

There is another way many people believe they can come to know truth. 

As you learned in Unit 3, Christians and Muslim believe some truth can 

be known only by revelation from God. For example, Islam and biblical 

Christianity declare that God reveals moral truth through conscience. 

Christianity and Islam are also based on the belief that God reveals 

Figure 1 

truth about His existence through His creation. And both Christians and 

Muslims believe some truth can be known only through God’s written revelation, either in the Bible or 

in the Qur’an. Of course, this does not mean that everything Muslims believe is revealed truth from 

Allah is actually truth. But it does mean that both Christians and Muslims believe there is some truth 

that can be known only through revelation. 

Tr uth 

That which agrees with, accurately describes, 

and accurately explains what is real 

Objective 

Existing as a reality independently of what we 

may think or feel 

The Naturalist View of Tr uth: Now let’s apply what you know about truth to naturalism. First, most 

(but not all) naturalists believe there is such a thing as objective truth. For example, they would agree 

that the existence of the physical universe is an objective truth. They believe its existence is real or 

true because they can observe it with their senses. Naturalists also believe that through their senses, 

reason, and science they can discover many objective 

truths about the universe. For example, you 

would probably never hear a naturalist deny the 

objective truth of the law of gravity. They know the 

truth of this law because they can observe things 

being held in place on the earth’s surface. And 

they know the truth of this law because they can 

observe things in the earth’s atmosphere returning 

back to earth. No naturalist would ever jump off a 

skyscraper thinking he could defy the law of gravity. 

He knows the law of gravity is an objective truth, 

whether he likes it or not. And no naturalist scientists 

would ever design and launch a space shuttle 

without confidence in the laws of gravity and other 

laws of the universe. They design rockets power- 

228 

229 


228 

ful enough to launch the shuttle against the forces 

of gravity. And they design the shuttle with wings 

and rockets to safely return the shuttle to earth in 

harmony with the forces of gravity. If they could not 

count on the truth and reliability of the law of gravity 

as well other laws of the universe, there would be 

no space program. 

While naturalists believe they can discover truth 

through their senses, they also know that their 

senses don’t always show or tell them the truth. 

Many years ago people believed the earth was fl at 

because that’s what their eyes showed them. They 

believed that ships would eventually sail over the 

edge of the planet when they reached the far horizon. 

But scientifi c exploration later disproved this belief, 

and it had to be rejected. 

Naturalists also know that reason doesn’t always lead to truth. They know that sometimes the things 

they believe are untrue because they seem unreasonable later turn out to be true. This happens as 

their reasoning changes or as they discover more facts and other objective truths. Of course, the opposite 

is also true. Sometimes naturalists discover that things they once believed were true are not 

true. This happens as they discover other objective truths through their senses, through science, and 

through reason. 

How Does the Naturalist View of Tr uth Differ From the Biblical 

Christian View? Now let’s ask ourselves some questions. If both 

naturalists and Christians believe there is objective truth that can 

be discovered through the senses, science, and reason, is there 

any difference then in how each views truth? If they both agree 

that the law of gravity is an objective truth they can prove through 

scientific investigation, is there really any difference in the way 

they search for truth? T o answer these questions, let’s review 

our earlier definition of naturalism. You learned that naturalism 

is an atheistic worldview based on the belief that our senses, 

science, and reason prove that the natural or physical universe 

is all that exists. From this defi nition, can you identify how the 

naturalist view of truth differs from the biblical Christian or even 

the Islamic view? Let’s explore some of these differences. 

First, naturalism denies the truth of God’s existence. Remember, 

naturalists don’t believe in the supernatural. That’s because they 

can’t see, touch, or prove through science that invisible, spiritual 

beings such as angels and God exist. In 1963, the Russian cos- 



229 

 

The Naturalist View of Truth: Now let’s apply what you know about truth to 

naturalism. First, most (but not all) naturalists believe there is such a thing as 

objective truth. For example, they would agree that the existence of the physical 

universe is an objective truth. They believe its existence is real or true because 

they can observe it with their senses. Naturalists also believe that through their 

senses, reason, and science they can discover many objective truths about 

the universe. For example, you probably would never 

hear a naturalist deny the objective truth of the law of 

gravity. They know the truth of this law because they 

can observe things being held in place on the earth’s 

surface. And they know the truth of this law because 

they can observe things in the earth’s atmosphere 

returning back to earth. No naturalist would ever jump 

off a skyscraper thinking he could defy the law of gravity. He knows the law of 

gravity is an objective truth, whether he likes it or not. And no naturalist scientists 

would ever design and launch a space shuttle without confidence in the laws of 

gravity and other laws of the universe. They design rockets powerful enough 

to launch the shuttle against the forces of gravity. And they design the shuttle 

with wings and rockets to safely return to earth in harmony with the forces of 

gravity. If they could not count on the truth and reliability 

of the law of gravity as well other laws of the universe, 

there would be no space program. 

While naturalists believe they can discover truth through 

their senses, they also know that their senses don’t 

always show or tell them the truth. Many years ago 

people believed the earth was flat because that’s what 

their eyes showed them. They believed that ships would 

eventually sail over the edge of the planet when they reached the far horizon. 

But scientific exploration later disproved this belief, and it had to be rejected. 

Naturalists also know that reason doesn’t always lead to truth. They know that 

sometimes the things they believe are untrue because they seem unreasonable 



later turn out to be true. This happens as their reasoning changes or as they 

discover more facts and other objective truths. Of course, the opposite is also 

true. Sometimes naturalists discover that things they once believed were true 

are not true. This happens as they discover other objective truths through their 

senses, through science, and through reason. 



What do most naturalists believe about objective truth? 

What methods or means of discovering truth would a naturalist accept? 

Why would a naturalist believe in the truth of the law of gravity? 

Why are scientists—some of whom are naturalists—able to develop 

space shuttles and space stations? 

Do you think naturalists recognize the limitations of discovering truth 

through their senses, science, and reason? Why? 

In what ways do you think the naturalist view of truth differs from the 

biblical Christian view? 

Have students read How Does the Naturalist View of Truth Differ From the 

Biblical Christian View? (SWT pp. 229-230). 

 

How Does the Naturalist View of Truth Differ From the 

Biblical Christian View? Now let’s ask ourselves some 

questions. If both naturalists and Christians believe there is 

objective truth that can be discovered through the senses, 

science, and reason, is there any difference then in how each 

views truth? If they both agree that the law of gravity is an 

objective truth they can prove through scientific investigation, 

is there really any difference in the way they search for truth? 

To answer these questions, let’s review our earlier definition of 

naturalism. You learned that naturalism is an atheistic worldview based on the 

belief that our senses, science, and reason prove that the natural or physical 

universe is all that exists. From this definition, can you identify how the naturalist 

view of truth differs from the biblical Christian or even the Islamic view? Let’s 

explore some of these differences. 

First, naturalism denies the truth of God’s existence. Remember, naturalists 

don’t believe in the supernatural. That’s because they can’t see, touch, or prove 

through science that invisible, spiritual beings such as angels and God exist. 

In 1963, the Russian cosmonaut Valery Bykovsky told newsmen that no Soviet 

cosmonaut believed in God. And he said that none of them had seen anything 

to change their minds during their space flights. In other words, because they 

hadn’t seen God, He doesn’t exist. 

Second, because naturalists don’t believe that God exists, they 

don’t believe truth can be known through revelation from God. 

Naturalists, therefore, do not believe that God reveals the truth 

of His existence through creation. This is not in harmony with 

the biblical truth that “the heavens declare the glory of God; the 

229 

ful enough to launch the shuttle against the forces 

of gravity. And they design the shuttle with wings 

and rockets to safely return the shuttle to earth in 

harmony with the forces of gravity. If they could not 

count on the truth and reliability of the law of gravity 

as well other laws of the universe, there would be 

no space program. 

While naturalists believe they can discover truth 

through their senses, they also know that their 

senses don’t always show or tell them the truth. 

Many years ago people believed the earth was flat 

because that’s what their eyes showed them. They 

believed that ships would eventually sail over the 

edge of the planet when they reached the far horizon. 

But scientific exploration later disproved this belief, 

and it had to be rejected. 

Naturalists also know that reason doesn’t always lead to truth. They know that sometimes the things 

they believe are untrue because they seem unreasonable later turn out to be true. This happens as 

their reasoning changes or as they discover more facts and other objective truths. Of course, the opposite 

is also true. Sometimes naturalists discover that things they once believed were true are not 

true. This happens as they discover other objective truths through their senses, through science, and 

through reason. 

How Does the Naturalist View of Tr uth Differ From the Biblical 

Christian View? Now let’s ask ourselves some questions. If both 

naturalists and Christians believe there is objective truth that can 

be discovered through the senses, science, and reason, is there 

any difference then in how each views truth? If they both agree 

that the law of gravity is an objective truth they can prove through 

scientifi c investigation, is there really any difference in the way 

they search for truth? T o answer these questions, let’s review 

our earlier defi nition of naturalism. You learned that naturalism 

is an atheistic worldview based on the belief that our senses, 

science, and reason prove that the natural or physical universe 

is all that exists. From this defi nition, can you identify how the 

naturalist view of truth differs from the biblical Christian or even 

the Islamic view? Let’s explore some of these differences. 

First, naturalism denies the truth of God’s existence. Remember, 

naturalists don’t believe in the supernatural. That’s because they 

can’t see, touch, or prove through science that invisible, spiritual 

beings such as angels and God exist. In 1963, the Russian cos- 

Lesson 22 



monaut Valery Bykovsky told newsmen that no Soviet cosmonaut 

believed in God. And he said that none of them had seen anything 

to change their minds during their space fl ights. In other words, 

because they hadn’t seen God, He doesn’t exist. 




of His existence through creation. This is not in harmony with the 

biblical truth that “the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies 

proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). As we will explore in 

Lesson 23, naturalists believe the universe came into existence 

by itself from materials that have always existed. In other words, 

matter is eternal, not God. And one day, without any help from 

God, that eternal matter accidentally began to interact in ways 

that eventually produced the universe, including life on earth. 

Naturalists not only reject the idea that God reveals truth through 

creation, they also reject the idea that God reveals His moral laws 

in the hearts of people. They reject the truth that God places a 

moral compass in our heart that tells us if our thoughts or actions 

are right or wrong. This belief is also not in harmony with the biblical 

truth that “even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law 

. . . demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts” (Romans 

2:14-15 NLT). Although many naturalists believe that some things 

are right and some things are wrong, they do not believe that 

God has revealed any absolute moral laws. They believe instead 

that people determine their own moral values. And they believe 

that these moral values can and do change as people’s beliefs 

and feelings change. 

If naturalists reject God’s revelation of truth through creation and 

through the heart or conscience, they most certainly reject His 

revelation of truth in Scripture. They believe the Bible is only a 

collection of stories and beliefs written by people. They might 

agree that some of the stories describe real historical events. 

And they might even agree that some of the moral teachings of 

the Bible are good for people. But they would never agree that 

the Bible is truthful revelation from God. Therefore, the naturalist 

belief that God did not reveal His truth through Scripture is not 

in harmony with the biblical truth that “all Scripture is inspired 

by God and is useful to teach us what is true . . ..” (2 Timothy 3:16 

NLT). 

230 


229 

230 


211


Lesson 22 


monaut Valery Bykovsky told newsmen that no Soviet cosmonaut 

believed in God. And he said that none of them had seen anything 

to change their minds during their space fl ights. In other words, 

because they hadn’t seen God, He doesn’t exist. 




of His existence through creation. This is not in harmony with the 

biblical truth that “the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies 

proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). As we will explore in 

Lesson 23, naturalists believe the universe came into existence 

by itself from materials that have always existed. In other words, 

matter is eternal, not God. And one day, without any help from 

God, that eternal matter accidentally began to interact in ways 

that eventually produced the universe, including life on earth. 

Naturalists not only reject the idea that God reveals truth through 

creation, they also reject the idea that God reveals His moral laws 

in the hearts of people. They reject the truth that God places a 

moral compass in our heart that tells us if our thoughts or actions 

are right or wrong. This belief is also not in harmony with the biblical 

truth that “even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law 

. . . demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts” (Romans 

2:14-15 NLT). Although many naturalists believe that some things 

are right and some things are wrong, they do not believe that 

God has revealed any absolute moral laws. They believe instead 

that people determine their own moral values. And they believe 

that these moral values can and do change as people’s beliefs 

and feelings change. 

If naturalists reject God’s revelation of truth through creation and 

through the heart or conscience, they most certainly reject His 

revelation of truth in Scripture. They believe the Bible is only a 

collection of stories and beliefs written by people. They might 

agree that some of the stories describe real historical events. 

And they might even agree that some of the moral teachings of 

the Bible are good for people. But they would never agree that 

the Bible is truthful revelation from God. Therefore, the naturalist 

belief that God did not reveal His truth through Scripture is not 

in harmony with the biblical truth that “all Scripture is inspired 

by God and is useful to teach us what is true . . ..” (2 Timothy 3:16 

NLT). 

230 


230 

skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). As we will explore in Lesson 

23, naturalists believe the universe came into existence by itself from materials 

that have always existed. In other words, matter is eternal, not God. And one 

day, without any help from God, that eternal matter accidentally began to interact 

in ways that eventually produced the universe, including life on earth. 

Naturalists not only reject the idea that God reveals truth 

through creation, they also reject the idea that God reveals 

His moral laws in the hearts of people. They reject the truth 

that God places a moral compass in our heart that tells us if 

our thoughts or actions are right or wrong. This belief is also 

not in harmony with the biblical truth that “even Gentiles, who 

do not have God’s written law . . . demonstrate that God’s law 

is written in their hearts” (Romans 2:14-15 NLT). Although many naturalists believe 

that some things are right and some things are wrong, they do not believe that 

God has revealed any absolute moral laws. They believe instead that people 

determine their own moral values. And they believe that these moral values can 

and do change as people’s beliefs and feelings change. 

If naturalists reject God’s revelation of truth through creation and through the 

heart or conscience, they most certainly reject His revelation of truth in Scripture. 

They believe the Bible is only a collection of stories and beliefs written 

by people. They might agree that some of the stories describe real historical 

events. And they might even agree that some of the moral 

teachings of the Bible are good for people. But they would 

never agree that the Bible is truthful revelation from God. 

Therefore, the naturalist belief that God did not reveal His 

truth through Scripture is not in harmony with the biblical truth 

that “all Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us 

what is true . . ..” (2 Timothy 3:16 NLT). 


What is the definition of naturalism? 

Why do naturalists reject the truth of God's existence? 

Why did the Russian cosmonaut, Valery Bykovsky, reject the existence 

of God? 

Because naturalists reject God's existence, what means of discovering 

truth must they also reject? (any revelation from God) 

How do naturalists respond to the biblical truth that the "heavens declare 

the glory of God" and "the skies proclaim the work of his hands" 

(Psalm 19:1)? 

If naturalists reject the biblical truth that creation reveals the truth of 

God's existence, what explanation do they offer for the existence of 

the universe? 

How do naturalists respond to the biblical truth that "even Gentiles, 

who do not have God's written law . . . demonstrate that God's law is 

written in their hearts" (Romans 2:14-15 NLT)? 



If naturalists reject the biblical truth that the presence of God's moral 

law in everyone's heart reveals His existence, what explanation do 

they offer for the existence of certain moral laws in the hearts of most 

people? 

How do naturalists respond to the biblical truth that "all Scripture is 

inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true" (2 Timothy 

3:16 NLT)? 

If naturalists reject the biblical truth that God revealed the written 

Scriptures to teach us truth, what explanation do they offer for the 

existence of the Bible? 







topic 4. Problems with the naturalist view of truth 


By asserting that God is only a creation of the human mind and therefore nonexistent, 

naturalists are faced with several problems as they try to construct theories for the 

existence of the cosmos and the nature of humanity. Avowing to unlock the mysteries 

of reality through science and reason alone, naturalists reach a point in their search 

where they must take an enormous leap of faith. At this point, they must abandon 

their devotion to reason, contradicting their commitment to discovering truth through 

reason. For example, naturalists concur with the argument of causation—every 

effect must have a cause. However, they refuse to accept that ultimately reason 

dictates that we must eventually arrive at the existence of a grand or uncaused 

"Grand Cause" that is not an effect itself. For theists, the uncaused Grand Cause 

is God. The problem for naturalists then is that by denying the existence of a Grand 

Cause, they must abandon the reasonableness of causation when it comes to the 

origin of primal matter from which they believe the universe was formed. With no 

explanation for the origin or cause of this primal matter, naturalists are forced to 

take the leap of faith and state that matter itself is eternal. They reach this belief by 

acknowledging that matter could not have come from nothing and by denying the 

existence of the true Eternal Cause, God. 

Another problem naturalists face relates to the reality of design and order within 

the universe. Prior to Darwin, most naturalists maintained a "God-hypothesis" for 

explaining the obvious order of the cosmos. However, according to Richard Dawkins, 

the atheist philosopher-scientist, Darwin's theory of natural selection displaced the 

long held belief that the universe was the work of an omnipotent, purposeful God. 

The purpose and design of the universe could be attributed to the "blind, unconscious 

automatic process which Darwin discovered." 5 This theory, however, ignores the 

obvious questions: How can eternal matter blindly and unconsciously result in the 

creation of an orderly universe? How can these factors create human beings with 

Reference 

5 

Dawkins, Richard. The Blind 

Watchmaker: Why the Evidence 

of Evolution Reveals a Universe 

Without Design. New York. W. 

W. Norton, 1986, p. 5. 


213



intelligence who purposely create and design everything from works of art, music, 

poetry, and literature to computers, space stations, and life saving medical devices. 

How can lifeless matter blindly and unconsciously create human life with an inherent 

drive for purpose and meaning as well as an inherent awareness of universal right 

and wrong? Again, by rejecting the existence of an omnipotent, purposeful, moral 

Creator, naturalists must abandon rational thinking and embrace instead the irrational, 

i.e., that design, order, purpose, and moral awareness are simply the product of 

random, amoral, purposeless automatic processes. 

233 


Topic 4 

Problems With the Naturalist View of Truth 

Problems With the Naturalist View of Tr uth: When naturalists 

reject God’s existence, they also reject the One Who is Truth. 

Jesus said, “‘I am the way and the truth and the life’” (John 14:16). 

By rejecting God and His truth, naturalists are left completely 

on their own to discover truth. But as you know, all people are 

imperfect. And some things they think are true simply are not. 

For example, because naturalists deny that God created the 

universe, they try to discover through science and reason just 

how the universe came into existence. They know that the material 

that makes up the universe could not have just created 

itself out of nothing. That’s not reasonable. Therefore, the only 

explanation that naturalists can give for its existence is that it 

has always existed. In other words, since there is no God to 

create it, it must be eternal. They have no way of proving this 

belief. They simply accept it by faith. 

Once naturalists believe that matter is eternal, they must try 

to discover how it all came together to produce the universe 

and life. Now here there is a real problem. Because naturalists 

are intelligent, they can see through reason and science that the universe is extremely orderly. 

Everywhere they look, they see how well designed it is. They also know that there must be a cause 

for every event. For example, seasons come and go every year in exactly the same way. Naturalists 

know that the seasons are caused because a slightly tilted earth rotates each year around the sun. 

They see that plants and animals always reproduce “after their kind.” They know that apple trees are 

always caused by apple seeds that contain all the special genetic material that reproduces only apple 

trees. However, because naturalists see the order of the universe and because they understand there 

must be a cause for every event in the universe, 

they are faced with a big problem. Let’s briefl y 

explore this problem. 

According to naturalism, the material that makes 

up the orderly universe has no cause. It is eternal. 

And according to naturalism, the universe itself 

has no outside cause or reason such as God for 

its existence. It’s simply an accident. That’s the 

only way it can exist if there is no Creator God. 

The problem, therefore, is this: How can uncaused 

eternal material accidentally produce the perfectly 

ordered and designed universe? How can an accident 

produce humans who can think, choose, 


233 


Have students turn to Topic 4 (SWT pp. 233). Have them read the title. Discuss 



From what you have studied so far, what problems do you see in the 

naturalist view of truth? 

Have students read Problems With the Naturalist View of Truth (SWT pp. 233- 

234). 

Problems With the Naturalist View of Truth: When naturalists 

reject God’s existence, they also reject the One Who is 

Truth. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life" 

(John 14:16). By rejecting God and His truth, naturalists are left 

completely on their own to discover truth. But as you know, 

all people are imperfect. And some things they think are true 

simply are not. For example, because naturalists deny that 

God created the universe, they try to discover through science 

and reason just how the universe came into existence. 

They know that the material that makes up the universe could not have created 

itself out of nothing. That’s not reasonable. Therefore, the only explanation 

that naturalists can give for its existence is that it has always existed. In other 

words, since there is no God to create it, it must be eternal. They have no way 

of proving this belief. They simply accept it by faith. 

Once naturalists believe that matter is eternal, they must try to discover how it all 

came together to produce the universe and life. Now here there is a real problem. 

Because naturalists are intelligent, they can see through reason and science 

that the universe is extremely orderly. Everywhere they look, they see how well 

designed it is. They also know that there must be a cause for every event. For 

example, seasons come and go every year in exactly the same way. Naturalists 

know that the seasons are caused because a slightly 

tilted earth rotates each year around the sun. They see 

that plants and animals always reproduce “after their 

kind.” They know that apple trees are always caused by 

apple seeds that contain all the special genetic material 

that reproduces only apple trees. However, because 

naturalists see the order of the universe and because 



they understand there must be a cause for every event in the universe, they 

are faced with a big problem. Let’s briefly explore this problem. 

According to naturalism, the material that makes up the orderly universe has 

no cause. It is eternal. And according to naturalism, the universe itself has no 

outside cause or reason such as God for its existence. It’s simply an accident. 

That’s the only way it can exist if there is no Creator God. 

The problem, therefore, is this: How can uncaused eternal 

material accidentally produce the perfectly ordered and 

designed universe? How can an accident produce humans 

who can think, choose, discover, and create? Accidents 

just don’t produce such perfect order, design, and intelligence. 

Not only that, accidents can’t produce people with 

moral awareness of right and wrong. There is no right or 

wrong in an accident. Only a holy and omnipotent God 

could ever design and create an orderly universe and fill 

it with His image-bearers who think, feel, choose, know right from wrong, and 

create. But because naturalists reject God, the only explanation they can offer 

for the existence of such an amazingly designed universe populated with intelligent 

human beings is that it just happened accidentally. That’s as far as their 

reasoning and science can lead them. 


234 

Lesson 22 

discover, and create? Accidents just don’t produce 

such perfect order, design, and intelligence. Not only 

that, accidents can’t produce people with moral awareness 

of right and wrong. There is no right or wrong in 

an accident. Only a holy and omnipotent God could 

ever design and create an orderly universe and fill it 

with His image-bearers who think, feel, choose, know 

right from wrong, and create. But because naturalists 

reject God, the only explanation they can offer for the 

existence of such an amazingly designed universe 

populated with intelligent human beings is that it just 

happened accidentally. That’s as far as their reasoning 

and science can lead them. 

No naturalist would ever believe that a computer or 

airplane could create itself accidentally out of eternal 

matter. They would say believing such a thing is totally 

unreasonable and therefore untrue. They know 

computers and airplanes and works of art and music 

cannot possibly create themselves accidentally. But when naturalists look at the world and reject God, 

its Designer and Creator, they are left only with one explanation for its existence—it’s all an accident. 

What naturalists are saying then is this: It’s unreasonable to think that a computer or airplane could 

create itself. However, it’s not unreasonable to think that the universe could create itself. Now you 

decide. Is this kind of thinking among naturalists reasonable or unreasonable? 

234 


No naturalist would ever believe that a computer or airplane could create itself 

accidentally out of eternal matter. They would say believing such a thing is totally 

unreasonable and therefore untrue. They know computers and airplanes 

and works of art and music cannot possibly create themselves accidentally. But 

when naturalists look at the world and reject God, its Designer and Creator, they 

are left only with one explanation for its existence—it’s all an accident. What 

naturalists are saying then is this: It’s unreasonable to think that a computer 

or airplane could create itself. However, it’s 

not unreasonable to think that the universe 

could create itself. Now you decide. Is this 

kind of thinking among naturalists reasonable 

or unreasonable? 


Naturalists don't believe in a Creator God. They also don't believe 

that matter or anything else can create itself out of nothing. What 

problem do these beliefs create for the naturalist? What unreasonable 

solution do they offer to solve this problem? 

What kinds of problems or puzzles do you like to solve? 

What kinds of things do you like to create? 

As you grow older, what kinds of plans do you imagine for your life? 

Why do you make plans and set goals? 

What do you think is your purpose here on earth? 

Why do you think you have the ability and desire to reason, create, 

and make plans for your life? 


215



Naturalists recognize that the universe is complex and orderly. 

They recognize that people are intelligent, creative beings who live 

with purpose and moral awareness. But they also believe that the 

universe is the result of unplanned, accidental processes involving 

eternal nonliving matter. What problems do these opposing beliefs 

create for naturalists? 

Naturalists believe it is completely unreasonable to think a computer 

or airplane could create itself accidentally. They also believe that the 

universe and everything in it was formed entirely by accident. What 

problems do these opposing beliefs create for the naturalist? 

If you are following the suggested syllabus, assign Thinking About It (SWT pp.

Worldview Teacher Manual samples - Summit Ministries

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?