Survey on Worldviews—Essay

By

Shane Nataneal Kok

THE1122: BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW

Bachelor of Theology

South African Theological Seminary

22 November 2024

Assessor: Ms. Suzanne van der Merwe

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Fully Agree 3 5 5 5 5 7 6 4 6 6 3 7 7 7 7
Mostly Agree 2 1 1 2 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Fully Disagree 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0
Mostly Disagree 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

Herein I have undertaken a survey from members of our church Apostolic faith mission
gateway tabernacle the purpose of this undertaking was to analyse the views of members as it
pertains to three important factors from a Christian perspective namely and categorised as
follows, biblical views the inception of the bible being inspired by the word of God, Adam and
Eve were two real people, everything taught in the bible being absolute truth, and the bible
consisting of no errors. Secondly, the life of Jesus, is Jesus fully God and fully human, Jesus
dying for the forgiveness of sins, Jesus physically rose from the dead, faith in Jesus being the
only way to go to heaven, and Jesus literally being born by a virgin. Finally, we will review
biblical principles for human conduct specifically, are human beings basically sinful, is it a
sin for unmarried couples to cohabit, can Christians consult mediums, is it a sin to engage in
homosexual relationships and lastly determine whether abortion should be viewed as murder.

The population of my research was a sample of 7 members from my place of worship I used
the survey as a research tool to gather information. Herein as it pertained to biblical views or
reliability three of the participants fully agreed, while one mostly agreed and one finally fully
disagreeing as it pertained the subpoints. Biblical principles for human conduct i.e. humans
being sinful, cohabitation of unmarried couples, consultation of mediums, homosexuality and
abortion received strong agreements which is indicative of a conservative perspective on
ethical matters. Finally, the life and belief in Jesus’ physical resurrection has been strongly
supported evidently shown by six members agreeing fully.

In my deliberations I had to investigate views that were diverse, address moral issues, and
encourage open dialogue on antagonistic matters. This undertaking encouraged one to
understand different perspectives within the group and foster a deeper consideration and
respect for differing opinions.

The survey revealed a blend of unity on certain foundational doctrines and diversity or
contention on others. A strong consensus was found on key doctrinal truths, such as belief in
Jesus' physical resurrection and the belief that the Bible holds no errors. However, there was a
notable divide on the belief that the Bible holds no errors, with three participants fully agreeing
but the remaining responses included "mostly agree," "fully disagree," and "mostly disagree."
This variance may reflect differing views on biblical interpretation, ranging from literalism to
a more nuanced understanding of scriptural authority.

Conservative ethical stances were seen, with the statement "Abortion is murder" garnering
unanimous full agreement, which is indicative of a shared pro-life position. Strong agreement
was observed on the sinfulness of unmarried couples living together and engaging in
homosexual relationships. However, only four participants fully agreed with the statement
"Everything the Bible teaches is true," suggesting that while certain doctrines are upheld, the
overall trust in the Bible's truthfulness may not be universal.

The diversity of responses on scriptural inerrancy and reliability points to an area where further
teaching could benefit the congregation. A lack of consensus on the Bible's truthfulness and
authority could stem from insufficient doctrinal grounding or exposure to critical questions that
have not been fully addressed in church teaching. Ethical issues as a unifying factor suggest
that there is a shared conviction rooted in biblical teachings, but it is important to approach
discussions around contentious topics with grace and understanding, especially when engaging
with individuals who may hold differing perspectives.
The survey results reflect a congregation committed to core Christian beliefs while grappling
with questions about scriptural authority and cultural engagement. Open communication within
a congregation is crucial for addressing concerns and uncertainties and fostering a strong grasp
of biblical principles that direct choices and deeds in every sphere of life.