What makes education Christian?

             During my current week of study, we were tasked to read chapter two “What Makes Education Christian” from A Theology of Christian Education by James Estep.[1]  The chapter details what makes education Christian or non-Christian.  There are four reflection questions posed at the end of chapter which I will document and reflect upon.

1.     How would you have defined Christian education prior to reading this chapter?  What about now?

a.       I have considered Christian education to be about learning how to be a Christian.  I grew up with the understanding of the better you know the bible the more of Christian you will become.  This concept was at the foundation of my spiritual growth.  It was only later that I discovered the richness that could be found in Christian education beyond simple bible study.  There was theology, church history, and spiritual disciplines.  After reading this chapter, I see Christian education encompasses all these elements and then some.  Christian education is the ministry of sharing theological truth along the educational journey.  It is about learning of the world through a theological lens, but it is also about learning more of God will for you in this world.

2.     Which do you value more or know better: theology or the social sciences? Why?

a.      I struggle to answer this question or at least how it is asked.  With a sense that is saying value and know are equal, I would need to say I know theology more.  I have been trained theologically through my undergrad and now graduate work; however, the question of value is a greater challenge by itself.  Obviously, I would want to say that I value theology more than the social sciences; however, do my actions really describe that reality.  I would think that I may internally value theology more, but I am more comfortable with the social sciences.

3.     On a scale of 1-5(1=do not, 5=very well), how well do you currently fulfill the stated practical implications?

a.      Christian educators must be well read in both educational theory and theology:

                                                    i.     2, I am aware of some teaching techniques associated with educational theory, but I have not integrated those thoughts into my theological studies.

b.     Christian educators must think theologically about their own ministry beyond the level of content.

                                                    i.     4, I am now working to find ways to integrate and process what my studies and lessons can look through a theological lens.  What is it that I am teaching beyond what I am teaching?

c.      Christian educators must write their own theological approach to education so they can intentionally continue to more thoroughly refine and express a Christian education.

                                                    i.     3, it is important to do this in practice.  I have not worked through a theological approach to my own educational responsibilities yet, but I am working on it.

d.     Christian educators must share their theological convictions within an educational context so they can orient and motivate others in the task of teaching.

                                                    i.     4, within the church it is important to work through the theological differences of the leaders.  I have learned to share my personal convictions in better ways with my colleagues.

e.      Christian educators must dialogue with other professionals to glean further insights into both the theology and theory of their ministry.

                                                    i.     3.  One must learn to become a better learner in order to become a better teacher.  I admit I do not necessarily cross that bridge in an effective manner.  I either dig in too deep in my learning or I move too quickly into trying to teach it.  I wrestle with the balance.

4.     What areas of improvement did this chapter evoke for you?

a.      I have learned the importance of a theological worldview when it comes to education.  I remember my high school biology teacher share his personal beliefs prior to our study of evolution.  It was surprising to see and hear; however, it was a first actual integration that made sense me between theology and education.  I carry that memory with me when I run into subjects that I do not sense a Christian perspective on.

 

 


[1] Estep Jr., Anthony, and Allison, A Theology of Christian Education.

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