The Importance of Christian Education
Posted by toddhelmkamp on September 1, 2007
As many of you know, I started my final semester for my bachelor’s degree at the end of August. I attend a secular, state-sponsored university. This leads to problems.
In my courses of study (History, Religion, Philosophy, Psychology, Anthropology, etc.) I am constantly bombarded by secular views of science, history, humanity, biology, etc., even by professed Christians.
I have great respect for many of my instructors, compounding the difficulty.
All of this strikes a severe blow at the root of my faith, even to the point of beginning to undermine it.
Thank God for the dedicated men and women who publish materials dedicated to a sincere, factual, reasonable, scientific defense of God’s Holy Word! The material offered by these people (which is readily available on the web) helps to both increase and shore up my faith.
My three personal favorites are:
The Institute For Creation Research
Ensuring that our children are properly educated about the facts of our world and how they line up with God’s Word is vital. Begin to undermine their faith in the scientific and historical accuracy of God’s Word, and they will soon begin to doubt its authority in their lives.
Please, become familiar with these sites. Direct your children, friends, and congregations to them. Spend time with them. Discuss what they have learned. If you are able, financially support them.
Most of us grew up with a skewed idea of how the world works. Our children are still receiving that same skewed message. Its up to us to ensure that they know the Truth.
And parents, don’t expect your local church to do it. That’s your job.
September 2, 2007 at 8:06 am
Todd,
Those who have never had their faith shaken when they explored the challenges to Christianity have a relatively weak faith. Their faith has never been allowed to be put to the test.
About parental responsibility: it is the parent’s responsibility to train their children. The Church’s role is to come alongside the parent and help them as they can. When The Church attempts to disciple children without the involvement of the parent their efforts become minimalized. I have many years of experience watching this trend. If a parent is not a believer, and The Church is trying to disciple them, the parent can undo in 5 minutes what The Church attempts to do with its one hour per week.
September 7, 2007 at 8:24 am
Todd,
Have you read Total Truth by nancy Pearcey? A very good book on worldview and the threats from within in our churches.
September 7, 2007 at 9:00 am
No, I haven’t. I’ll put that on my list! Thanks!