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Think Biblically!: Recovering a Christian Worldview

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Now in paperback, this helpful volume by pastor and best-selling author John MacArthur guides readers in cultivating a biblical worldview on a wide range of issues.

What we think shapes who we are. That's why the Bible tells us, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind" (Romans 12:2a). In a world of differing voices competing for our allegiance, we must learn to "think biblically" so we can distinguish good from evil. God is the Creator of this world; his voice--his Word--must guide our thoughts and our lives.

With the Bible in their hands, John MacArthur and other scholars and teachers from the Master's College confront the false worldviews that dominate our postmodern world. The authors provide models for cultivating a biblical mind-set on worship, psychology, gender, science, education, history, government, economics, and literature. This book will help anyone who is striving to think biblically in today's culture.

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 23, 2003

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About the author

John F. MacArthur Jr.

1,344 books1,924 followers
John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Debbie.
190 reviews27 followers
October 2, 2017
Thoughtful collection of work - definitely worth reading OR reading a section based on interest.
Profile Image for Todd Wilhelm.
232 reviews20 followers
October 23, 2010
This book was a compilation of chapters on different subjects written by different authors. I really liked MacArthur's chapters on "Comprehending Creation" and "Having an Eternally Right Relationship With God," in which the Gospel was laid out very clearly.

I also liked R.W. Mackey, II's chapter on "Proposing A Biblical Approach To Economics." Most of the other material was just average, but I am sure the reader will find something beneficial to him in this book.
Profile Image for librarian4Him02.
572 reviews19 followers
November 11, 2011
John MacArthur and other Masters College faculty examine various topics from okay's culture and society. They apply a biblical world view to these topics. I finished this book feeling more prepared and also eager to apply biblical thinking to events and situations around me. Definitely recommend this read.
10.7k reviews35 followers
October 12, 2025
A PRESENTATION OF ONE INTERPRETATION OF ‘THE’ CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW
[NOTE: page numbers below refer to the 1st 2009 edition, not the 2025 edition.]

General Editor (and pastor, etc.) John MacArthur wrote in the Preface of this 2003 book, “In an era of postmodern influence that advocates that there are no absolutes and that everyone’s opinion is of equal value, this volume issues a serious call to recover a Christian worldview that is absolute and exclusive. As many individual believers, conservative evangelical churches, and Christian schools drift away from a high view of God and His Word, their worldview will be compromised by error. These essays are intended to reaffirm and restore a biblically-based view of life’s reality from God’s perspective; some of the content is intended to be prescriptive and some proscriptive… this book will help refocus proper attention on God’s understanding of the world in which one lives.”

The Introduction explains, “What is a worldview?... A worldview is, first of all, an explanation and interpretation of the world and second, an application of this view to life… Every worldview starts with PRESUPPOSITIONS—i.e., beliefs that one presumes to be true without supporting independent evidence from other sources or systems. Interpreting reality, in part or in whole, requires that one adopt an interpretive stance since there is no ‘neutral’ thought in the universe. This becomes the foundation upon which one builds… let it be stated that two major presuppositions underlie that chapters that follow: the first will be eternal existence of the personal, transcendent, triune, Creator God. Second, the God of Scripture has revealed His character, purposes, and will in the infallible and inerrant pages of His special revelation, the Bible, which is superior to any other source of revelation or human reason alone.” (Pg. 13-14)

It continues, “Are there any common misperceptions about the Christian worldview, especially by Christians? There are at least two mistaken notions. The first is that a Christian view of the world and life will differ on all points from other worldviews… especially as they relate to the character of God, the nature and value of Scripture, and the exclusivity of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The second is that the Bible contains all that we need to know. Common sense should put this misdirected thought out of business. However, it is true that the Bible contains all that Christians need to know about their spiritual life and godliness through a knowledge of the one true God… Also, while it does not exhaustively address every field, when Scripture speaks in any subject area, it speaks authoritatively.” (Pg. 15)

Richard L. Mayhue states in his essay, “Are divine revelation and human reason like oil and water---do they never mix? Christians have sometimes reached two erroneous extremes in dealing with divine revelation and human reason. First, there is ‘anti-intellectualism,’ which basically concludes that if a subject matter is not discussed in the Bible, it is not worthy of serious study/thought. Or, only what the Bible teaches on a topic should be examined. This unbiblical approach … leads to cultural and intellectual withdrawal. At the opposite extreme is ‘hyper-intellectualism,’ which embraces natural revelation at the same or at a higher level of value and credibility as God’s special revelation in Scripture; when the two are in conflict, natural revelation is the preferred source of truth. This unbiblical approach results in scriptural withdrawal. This matter is not resolved with an either/or approach but rather with a both/and process… Where the Bible speaks to a discipline, its truth is superior. When the Bible does not speak, there is a whole world of God’s creation to explore for knowledge, but with the caveat that man’s ability to draw conclusions is fallible, unlike God’s Word.” (Pg. 50)

John MacArthur asserts about astronomer Carl Sagan’s posthumous book, “Although Sagan tried to maintain a semblance of optimism to the bitter end, his religion led where all naturalism inevitably leads, to a sense of utter insignificance and despair… It would be nice if we somehow managed to solve some of our problems, but whether we do or not will ultimately be a forgotten bit of cosmic trivia. That, said Sagan, is a perspective well worth pondering. All of this underscores the spiritual barrenness of naturalism.” (Pg. 58)

He continues, “over the past couple of decades, large numbers of evangelicals have shown a surprising willingness to take a completely non-evangelical approach to interpreting the early chapters of Genesis. More and more are embracing the view known as ‘old-earth creationism,’ which blends some of the principles of biblical creationism with naturalistic and evolutionary theories, seeking to reconcile two opposing worldviews. And in order to accomplish this, old-earth creationists end up explaining away rather than honestly exegeting the biblical creation account… I am convinced that Genesis 1-3 ought to be taken at face value… Nothing about the Genesis text itself suggests that the biblical creation account is merely symbolic… or mythical.” (Pg. 61)

Mark A. Tatlock advises, “Confronting issues of racial and economic prejudice is part of … the work of the church. Left without a Christan response, advocates for the poor or minorities must turn to political means for relief… Without the church leading the way, secular agendas of multiculturalism, diversity, tolerance, and racial reconciliation provide only a humanistic, man-centered solution.” (Pg. 130)

Stuart W. Scott observes, “The fact that men and women were created with differences does not mean they are different in every way. Both genders are equal personally and spiritually… [But] Many are not aware … that the differences of God’s design for the sexes reach far beyond outward appearance… A man cannot ever be a man in the truest sense unless he, in his mind, attests to these basic realities… Masculinity then is a matter of the mind.” (Pg. 160-161)

Paul T. Plew asks Christians,” “Do you love Him [Jesus] more than family, position, status, career, or entertainment? Do you love Him enough to go to bed early Saturday night so you are not tired on Sunday morning? Enough to get out of bed early enough to eat breakfast so you aren’t distracted by hunger? Enough to arrive at the church with plenty of time before the service starts?” (Pg. 197) He continues, “A host of churches today have a low view of worship music… The emphasis seems to be this: Make it easy for the congregation. Do not expect much from them. Treat them like an audience. Perform for their applause. Get the people excited for the moment.” (Pg. 200)

John D. Street suggests, “Christians continue to be taught the essentials of psychology overtly or inadvertently, in sermons, Sunday school lessons, marriage seminars, self-help books, radio programs, missionary training, and Christian universities. The principles of psychology are presented as though they were on the same authoritative level as Scripture and compete for its jurisdiction as the sole authority in determining the well-being of the soul… Many Christian colleges, universities, and seminaries have taken their psychology programs and relabeled them ‘Biblical Counseling Programs,’ while maintaining an essentially psychological core of subjects… Christians have good reason to be skeptical toward any type of counseling that is not thoroughly biblical.” (Pg. 205) Later, he adds, “Scripture contains no hint that man struggles with a ‘poor view of self’ or ‘low self-esteem.’ Yet this idea has been the rubric of a considerable amount of Christian pop psychology.” (Pg. 213)

Clyde P. Greer, Jr. asserts, “Postmodernists have sometimes gained power over certain segments of the American academy. In this setting, their infringements on the free speech of conservatives and traditional scholars who oppose postmodernist versions of ‘political correctness’ serve as a chilling warning of what might happen if they gained total power. Oppression (of old, white, male power holders) in the name of anti-oppression … cannot advance any sane conception of justice.” (Pg. 271)

John P. Stead states, “Those in opposition see the evangelical church as reactionary, seeking to maintain supposedly repressive moral standards and defending free enterprise, which allegedly exploits the poor and underrepresented groups such as minorities, women, and homosexuals… interest groups or factions can better achieve their agenda at the expanse of the vast unorganized majority.” (Pg. 282)

Grant Horner notes, “Consider the current craze among evangelicals for ‘Christian’ fiction and movies… many Christians are getting a large dose of their theology (especially eschatology) from such sources, rather than going directly to Scripture. There is potentially a very great danger in this trend…” (Pg. 318)

Certainly, a lot of Christians may disagree with this book’s dogmatic presentation of “THE” Christian Worldview (e.g., “old-earth’ creationists, Christian counselors, social justice advocates), and suggest that there are many other ‘biblical’ perspectives. But this is certainly an articulate and comprehensive presentation of this particular interpretation of Christianity.
Profile Image for Boyce McClain.
93 reviews
December 4, 2025
The Bible states that what a man believes himself to be, he is. It is only through the grace, guidance and patience of God that any man can be truly transformed.
Imperfect as we are, God helps us transform bit by bit into the image and person he created us to be. It is a long process and on this mortal plan we will never fully achieve it. Still, God is with us and changes us-if we let Him.

The old saying goes, “I might not be perfect but at least I’m better than I was yesterday!”

What is the Christian life? What does it mean to be a Christian? Are the scriptures accurate? Are they inspired? Are they literal?

In Think Biblical Second Edition, from Crossway Books, several biblical scholars provide essays about the foundation of the Christian faith. I learned a lot-all of which strengthened my faith. John MaCarthur and Abner Chou edit the essays.

In the essays the foundations of the Christian faith are examined, how they pertain to today’s society and are to be applied to a Christian’s life.

Essays also look at how the world perceives the scriptures, how its truths have been distorted, changed and ignored and unfortunately how many churches have strayed from the Bible’s truths.

The various authors offer guidance as how to recover a Christian worldview.

As Christians we are part of the body of Christ. Christ being the head. In order for a body to function properly it must have proper nourishment, care and its various parts cooperating and working toward a common goal.

We all are given spiritual gifts to use toward the furtherance of the gospel. As each part of a physical body suffers pain when one part hurts we too must support one another, heal and work together to honor God and always, always give him the glory.

Just a few of the many subjects covered in the book include hermeneutics, creation sin, masculinity, femininity, music, mental illness, science, education, economics and so many more.

Romans 15:13 - Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
9 reviews
October 10, 2025
This was an enjoyable and intellectually stimulating read. I appreciated the essays on various topics by Master's University faculty, which were short and sweet. The most informative chapter was the one explaining postmodernism, and surprisingly, though history is not one of my favorite subjects, the chapter on history was one of my favorites.

The one chapter I did not like was the one explaining why biblical counseling is the best alternative to secular psychology. First off, psychologists and biblical counselors are not God, and both have sin, so either could be unhelpful or ineffective. Second, while I wholeheartedly believe and can testify to the power of God to transform hearts, I do not see why the Bible can not be integrated with psychological research. The chapter seemed to highly misrepresent the Integrationist view as described in the book Psychology and Christianity: Five Views by David Myers. I appreciated that the author addressed the case of Phineas Gage, but I was disappointed that the discussion was limited to one paragraph. I would have appreciated footnotes to more research, but at least the paragraph motivated me to do my own research on Christian perspectives.

Surprisingly, I learned more about psychology from the chapters on science than fron this one. It is important, yes, to recognize that psychology has limits because it is a "soft science." However, there are still some truths that Christians can glean from psychology, especially because people are both soul and body, which interact in unique ways. Dr. Horner's chapter on how the Christian is to interact with culture provides some helpful guildines on how the Christian can interact with subjects like psychology. It takes practice in discernment to identify what should be accepted and rejected in psychology, and I think it is also important to have a heart that is willing to listen to people without automatic judgment based on personal experiences. All the chapters clearly showed how the Bible is applicable to any subject. Psychology, apart from its flaws, is no exception.
Profile Image for Anete Ābola.
475 reviews11 followers
May 3, 2024
A gem for a Christian mind.
It touches many of the topics people encounter in today's culture (economics, literature, science, psychology, worship, femininity/masculinity, education, politics and much more). "Think biblically!" will equip you to really think biblically. It offers "Further reading" section on each of the topics. This should definitely be read by every Christian highschooler and university student (and every intellectual adult). You can even read only the chapters you are interested in (if some subjects seem irrelevant to you or too hard, because at some chapters it becomes a little academic), every chapter is worth your time.
15 reviews
August 5, 2022
Essential Reading!

Helps to create clear understanding of a living Biblical Worldview, touching all aspects of this life on earth. Must read for every Christian, necessary read for everyone else.
Profile Image for Lynn Ankunda.
27 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2025
The chapters on economics and the arts raised some good questions and shed some light on issues I'd wondered about. Good read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Guthrie Veech.
121 reviews5 followers
October 29, 2025
This book is a keeper when I am purging my library of 700 books! The chapter on masculinity and femininity is amazing.
Profile Image for Thomas Freeman.
61 reviews6 followers
March 31, 2009
This book is not the best book if you are looking for a good critique an apologetic for presenting a biblical worldview to the postmodern worldview. Instead it is a compilation of articles from different college professors who share about fundamentalist issues that are attacked by the postmoodern view.

However - The chapter dealing with the history of postmodernism is actually very good and provides an excellent summary.

Recommendation - borrow it from a library and get what you want from it.
Profile Image for Simon.
555 reviews18 followers
February 28, 2012
I want to give this 3 & 1/2 stars, because it was better than good, but it wasn't great. I would certainly recommend the text for a young person who is about to dive into university or upper high school. It will also be helpful for adults. Some chapters were stronger than others. Weaker ones were on politics, and creation (I think MacArthur is a bit strict on that). Strong chapters were on biblical masculinity, biblical femininity, and postmodernism.
Profile Image for Andrew.
727 reviews9 followers
November 4, 2013
A tough read at times, but a great example of a college education in a book. A wide swatch of topics are covered, though I wish some of my alama matter's other professors had been selected for a few chapters, as MacArthur seems to have the lion's share of topics. Highly recommend the last chapter by Prof Horner.
Profile Image for Bob.
37 reviews3 followers
December 12, 2015
The first half of the book was a 4 but the 2nd half about a 2 so it was a 3 overall. It was insightful but not an easy read and written on the post-graduate level with too many chapter authors. It was difficult to find continuity with so many authors. Offered a variety of critical views and was very interesting.
Profile Image for Clint Davison.
57 reviews7 followers
July 17, 2023
MacArthur is an excellent thinker. The co-authors really do a great job of addressing various aspects of the "Christian" worldview. Although much of this book is obviously leaning toward their Calvinistic mindset, it is worth the read - especially since it can be read by individual essay.
Profile Image for Becky.
34 reviews3 followers
June 30, 2008
I read the first couple chapters and lost interest.
Profile Image for Hannah Lofthus.
209 reviews
January 22, 2015
This book is great - very practical and insightful. It goes through a lot of different issues (such as history, government, and education) and shows what the Bible says about each of those topics.
Profile Image for Todd Brown.
53 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2014
If you desire a book that provides sound doctrinal teaching on scripture this is a must read.
Profile Image for J.A. Smith.
Author 3 books14 followers
January 17, 2018
I appreciated all the different sections of this book. It applies to so much happening in modern society and helps a Christian gear their thinking based on what God says.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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