Philosophy of Education

A Christian philosophy of education comprises a comprehensive world view of God, of man, and of the universe. God, who is unchangeable, has revealed Himself in nature, in the person of Jesus, and in the Bible which is authoritative in all matters of faith, truth, and practice. Jesus Christ alone provides that “unique point of reference” which gives to education an authoritative voice. (II Timothy 3:16-17)

Man is a special creation of God, made in God’s image, apart from any so-called evolutionary process. Being made in God’s image, man has a sense of purpose, a sense of fulfilment, and a sense of destiny. He is a rational and moral being, capable of understanding and communicating ideas.

The image of God is marred by sin; his understanding is obscured and his morality debased. Though fallen from his original position through Adam’s disobedience and his own sin, he may be restored to full relationship with God through his acceptance of the redemptive work of Christ, applied by the Holy Spirit.

Christian education begins with knowing God through Jesus Christ “in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). No one is truly educated who does not know God. Man is dependent upon God for the ability to learn truth and to interpret facts. We believe that all truth is God’s truth. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.” (I Corinthians 2:14)

Christian teachers must understand these basic principles of Christian education and be committed to them, demonstrating effectiveness in their ability to communicate them.

Christian education promotes a Biblical relationship within the family, the church, and the Christian school. According to the Scriptures, parents are responsible to God for the education of their children. The cooperative effort of the home and the Christian school is needed to fulfill that responsibility. Knowledge of the Bible and of Jesus Christ, integrated with other subject matter, is essential to the development and growth of the child in matters physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual. Right behaviour is based on the proper concept of the origin and purpose of all things; namely, that whatever we do in word or deed should be done to the glory of God.