Overview
This lecture focuses on how elementary educators can intentionally cultivate a biblical worldview in their students, distinguishing between modeling (caught) and direct instruction (taught), and offers practical steps to implement this approach across all subjects.
Defining Worldview and Biblical Worldview
- A worldview is a "mental map" of what you believe is true about life and the world.
- Everyone has a worldview that shapes their thoughts, words, and actions.
- A biblical worldview uses the whole of Scripture as its foundation for truth and life.
Caught vs. Taught: Modeling and Instruction
- Biblical worldview should be both modeled by teachers (caught) and explicitly taught to students.
- Modeling alone is insufficient; intentional, systematic instruction in worldview concepts is necessary.
- Bible class alone may not ensure biblical worldview instruction, as curriculum focus varies.
Key Steps for Cultivating a Biblical Worldview
- Step 1: Teachers must understand what the biblical worldview teaches on different topics.
- Step 2: Directly instruct students in worldview concepts by exploring big questions (e.g., what is truth, what is morality?).
- Step 3: Apply worldview questions in every subject, prompting students to think how biblical principles relate to the topic.
Teaching Morality from a Biblical Perspective
- Morality is grounded in God's character, not just a list of rules.
- Moral values are real, universal, and unchanging, reflecting God's nature.
- Breaking God's moral law is an offense against God, but Jesus provides redemption.
Integrating Worldview Across the Curriculum
- Teach students to apply biblical worldview principles in literature, social studies, math, science, and writing.
- Ask critical questions connecting subject matter to biblical concepts (e.g., right and wrong in history, math's unchanging nature).
- Practice and repeated application help students internalize and use biblical worldview principles independently.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Worldview — A mental map of beliefs shaping how one interprets life and the world.
- Biblical Worldview — Viewing all of reality through the lens of Scripture.
- Moralistic Therapeutic Deism — Belief in a distant God who wants people to be good and feel happy, common among youth not grounded in biblical worldview.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review your own understanding of biblical worldview topics before teaching.
- Intentionally plan direct instruction in worldview questions for students.
- Practice integrating worldview questions into all subject areas.
- Explore further resources and professional development at foundationworldview.com.