As a seminary graduate trained in two different personality assessments (The Four Lenses and DISC), I found Personality and Worldview by J.H. Bavinck a welcomed insight into our culture’s obsession with personality. Having the book Forwarded by the late Timothy Keller helps as Keller always approached things in a thoughtful way that respects both theological tradition and cultural impact.
From there, Personality and Worldview mentions popular personality assessments like MBTI, Enneagram, and others. But it does well because it speaks to how our worldview impacts our interpretation and application of our personality. For example, being trained as a Four Lenses Facilitator, we emphasize that knowing your “type” doesn’t mean the world needs to revolve around your type. Instead, knowing your type and others’ personality helps you have a higher maturity to relate to others than demanding they relate to you. An element found within this text.
Coupling worldview into the discussion about personality is also a strength found within Personality and Worldview. Not only does it impact one’s interpretation of who one is and who others are, but it impacts how one perceives one’s faith. As a result, one must be careful of the influences on understanding personalities as it does not become a new “religion” itself. Doing so only keeps people further apart than closer together.
Again, Personality and Worldview is insightful and has a theological/philosophical look into personalities. Before this text, a theological look was not found or considered within this discussion. The best text came from Dr. Tim LaHaye of the Left Behind fame who decades earlier wrote a far better book called Spirit Controlled Temperaments. Mostly his book reflects the DISC model of the four different temperaments, which is also similar to The Four Lenses. Repeat or not, LaHaye goes the deepest theologically on personality assessments than any other book. A remarkable achievement since his book is decades old, proving much work remains regarding Christianity, personality, and worldview. Personality and Worldview continues that dialog in the 21st Century.
Therefore, if you’re fascinated by personalities or are a facilitator of any personality assessment, Personality and Worldview is one you want to read. Please, put your personal bias toward your preferred personality assessment aside. Take time and hear the Christian theological and philosophical implications towards personalities. Regardless of your bias over any assessment, you’ll find your preference far more enriching than before completing this text.
Editor’s Note: This article was first published on Vertical Paths, used by permission.
Like the content you see on Reading For The Glory? Please subscribe by providing your email at the bottom of this page. We invite you to consider supporting the ongoing ministry of RFTG. To donate click here.
To learn more about the good news of Jesus Christ, please click here.
READING FOR THE GLORY 