Why is it important for the Christian educator to know his/her answers to the questions asked by metaphysics, epistemology, and axiology?

[Austin]

Metaphysics influences how the educator views their students—not as random beings but as intentional creations of God with inherent value and purpose.

Knowing their epistemological stance equips educators to guide students in discerning truth and evaluating knowledge critically through a biblical lens.

Understanding axiology ensures that the educator emphasizes eternal values—such as faith, character, and moral responsibility—alongside academic achievement.

[Austin]

Having our answers as Christian educators helps to keep our bearing right in a liberal and fallen world.

[Austin]

If I know my answers to the questions, I will have the right perspective as a Christian educator. I will be able to nurture my students to seek and find the answers to these questions, too. I will be able to:

1. build them up to know God and develop a Biblical worldview.
2. build their academic skills.
3. build their faith in God.

[Austin]

It will assist me in developing a coherent and biblical worldview for teaching. I will effectively integrate faith and education. My understanding of metaphysics, epistemology, and axiology enables me to fulfill my calling as someone who shapes young lives.

[Austin]

First, it is important to be able to give an answer because students WILL ask the questions. Being prepared is a teacher’s mandate.

Second, it is important for a teacher to know and understand his or her worldview… including the assumptions wrapped up therein. Sometimes, and even with the best of intentions, we do not understand the full implications of worldview thinking as it relates to our own lives. In the world of English education, this is most clearly seen in the popular teaching technique of “examining multiple critical perspectives” on a piece of literature. There are volumes written, courses designed, and standards established for this form of teaching. The problem, however, is that it ignores authorial intent and purpose. As readers, we do not have the right to assign meaning to a text that is contrary to the author’s intent or purpose. This goes against every facet of truth: metaphysically, epistemologically, and axiologically. Yet, believing teachers still buy into this form of teaching because they do not understand its logical (and dangerous) consequences. If we can just “change” the meaning of a piece of literature to suit our purposes or make up something that is not present in a fictional text… what then of the Bible? Thus, it is important to understand our presuppositions, worldview, and most importantly–the implications of our ideas.