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What does Dr. Black mean when she says the Christian school is important in raising a generation that is more than just competent cognitively?
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We need to raise a generation that understands their calling here on earth is eternal. If we merely teach them book knowledge we are missing out on fostering the most important thing and that is their relationship with Christ.
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If we merely prepare students to be successful in terms of the world’s definition of success, we are overlooking the most important questions of life. Those of us teaching in Christian schools are blessed with the freedom to partner with parents to teach children about God all day.
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Dr. Black reminds us that God’s call is not limited to working adults, but has always included children. She notes the example of sons and daughters prophesying in the Old Testament and the propensity for children to be able to speak truth in a situation where adults may struggle to speak it. These student we teach need to understand the call of God as a vital part of their decision making as they live today and look toward the future. Their value as created in his image started at birth. His unique gifting within each student can be developed and used now and in the future, whether it be as training for a career or in their role within their families. Students spiritual maturity, as well as their mental acuity, should be considered as they are instructed and redirected.
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Public schools put their primary focus on test results and how to teach academics based on test results. They spend less time on the innate needs of students and often lack time to truly get to know their students and respective families well. There is a timeline for everything and if a student doesn’t understand, still they have to move on in the lesson and no further explanation or exploration can be done. As Christian educators, we are first educating their heart, mind and soul. We are filling them with the gospel message, living out the gospel in our own lives and as trust grows because we care about the whole child truly (physical, academic, social, emotional and spiritual needs of each student), their hearts and minds become more open and receptive to the way we teach academics. Every subject has biblical truths woven into a lesson. There is not one subject that lacks teaching biblical truths. As we disciple students, they in turn will be able to disciple others here on earth and possibly in heaven.
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We are teaching them how to live for Jesus and how to be disciples. They can then continue to spread the Good News.
