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Postmodernism presents a challenge to the Christian view of epistemology. What are some practical ways you, as a Christian educator, can respond to this challenge?
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This is so tough because it is everywhere all around them, all the time. We have to consciously challenge these ideas that truth is subjective or that we can’t know certain things even when God’s Word is clear. We cannot assume they will figure it out or come to know it. We have to directly address these issues and have these conversations. We can challenge these claims with questions. “Who said you can’t know this for certain? Do you trust that person’s opinion more than God’s Word?” “Have they changed their mind on this topic?” Showing students, the logical fallacies and inconsistencies of postmodernism.
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Its easy to see the influence of Postmodern thinking on our students, as they are exposed to it daily without much thought or consideration. They hear things like “your truth” or have friends who choose to identify a certain way, and they accept it all as real and valid. As a Christian educator, I consistently point back to the necessity of objective truth. We give examples of “your truth” that have caused chaos and devastation, noting that there cannot be a subjective truth. I point to scripture for the understanding of a clear, unchanging, standard of truth, and that we must align ourselves to God’s Word rather than our own opinions.
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The students of the post-modern world are given misinformation that feelings are valued over truth. For example, many public schools promote the acceptance of gender fluidity. Christian educators must equip themselves with God given wisdom to be able to respond to these changes. It is important to be able to logically explain why certain ideas aren’t possible, while explaining the Christian philosophy.
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I think it’s important to emphasize that absolute truth is found in God. His word IS truth…so challenging students to make decisions, form philosophies, and base actions on what the Bible says is imperative. When we make truth subjective like postmodernism suggests, we run into a HEAP of trouble because it is at that point where truth is now a whim.
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We need to be very sensitive and informed about the current thinking and postmodern trends. We need to be current and aware, not blinkered or judgmental. We need to listen and be open to discussion as we ask our students questions to get them to think carefully about these issues and work out what is timeless truth.