We are all assuming something about the nature of reality. Every one of us. Our core assumptions exist because there isn’t definitive proof for any one belief system.

In Episode 116 of CHRISTIAN PARENT/CRAZY WORLD, David Richardson and I take a deep dive into the core assumptions that shape our beliefs about reality. In his first book Transparent: How to See Through the Powerful Assumptions That Control You, Dave defines the three primary types of assumers: Type I, Type II, and Type III, each with distinct perspectives on the nature of reality.

And remember, every person on the face of the planet falls into one of these 3 categories. 

Type I Assumers believe in a materialistic world where only physical matter and energy are considered real and important. This perspective is the foundation for understanding the world through a purely physical lens. (Think materialist/physicalist atheists.)

Type II Assumers view reality as primarily non-physical, emphasizing beliefs that focus on spiritual or idealistic objectives. This perspective leads to beliefs in spiritual evolution or sociopolitical perfection as driving forces in the universe. (Think Gnostics, far-eastern meditative religions, Marxists & cultural Marxists,  Fascists, and religious idealists.)

Type III Assumers recognize a dual reality where both physical and non-physical aspects coexist, all created by a higher power. This perspective highlights the importance of acknowledging the Creator and creation in shaping one’s view of reality. (Think Jews & Christians.)

I’m not overstating the benefits of understanding these assumptions, because understanding these core assumptions will help you understand everyone you know and everyone you will ever meet. 

Furthermore, the impact of these core assumptions are vast and explain virtually everything that is going on in our world today, like how extreme progressives are siding with radical Islamists on college campuses.

Have you been wondering why that is?

I sure have. 

If you look at what Islam teaches, it is the opposite of what Progressivism preaches. They are diametrically opposed. Dave explains how such divergent belief systems are finding a kinship on college campuses across the country. (Spoiler alert: It has something to do with their underlying assumptions.)

Dave also shares his critical assumptions test, an invaluable evangelistic tool that helps individuals evaluate a person’s core assumptions and their alignment with reality. This test consists of eight questions that prompt someone to reflect on their beliefs about the nature of reality, the origin of knowledge, and the purpose of human existence. By engaging with this test, you can quickly assess what a person believes and see how their core assumptions affirm or deny reality.

This episode will help you understand the lost people in your life and share the gospel more effectively as you will understand where the critical disconnect is between what a person believes and the real world that we live in.

You can listen to this vitally important conversation on Life Audio by clicking on the image below:
 

Or you can listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your podcasts. And please consider giving CPCW a 5 star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. That would make my day! 

Guest bio: David Richardson, author of Transparent: How to See Through the Powerful Assumptions That Control You, is the founder of the Assumptions Institute and its Chief Executive Officer. Prior to founding the Assumptions Institute, Richardson served for 30 years on the staff of Cru, formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ, devoting most of his ministry to university professors. He holds a B.A. degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland, and an M.A. degree in Theological Studies from the International School of Theology. Richardson also holds an MTh. degree in Applied Theology from the University of Oxford.

EPISODE RESOURCES & LINKS:

UC Berkeley’s campus is in turmoil. It’s unlike anything in recent memory – Politico (4/21/24)

BLM spent at least $12M on luxury properties in LA, Toronto – New York Post (5/17/22)

Black Lives Matter Secretly Bought a $6 Million House – New York Mag: Intelligencer ((4/4/22)

Jennifer Fulwiler Testimony – From Atheist to A Daughter of God – Godstrong Faith

SCRIPTURE PASSAGES REFERENCED:

Gen. 11 – The Tower of Babel

Rom. 7:18