Why All Christian Educators Need a Christian Philosophy of Education

By Jennifer Bollinger 

A Biblical Philosophy Sets the Framework 

A philosophy is an intentionally examined set of beliefs. For Christians, these beliefs should be biblical. A philosophy of education is the established framework of beliefs used to develop our views of education. Our philosophy informs our aim of education, the role of the teacher and student, and the nature and purpose of the curriculum.  

Our Worldviews Shape Our Teaching 

While a philosophy is intentional and systematic, a worldview can be messy...  

A worldview (the lens through which a person views the world) is often clouded by culture, experiences, and upbringing. Romans 12:2 states that, as believers, we should be renewing our minds to ensure that our worldviews align with Scripture. Inevitably, our worldviews shape our classroom environment, instruction, and interactions with students and colleagues.  

Students' Worldviews Shape Their Learning  

Media and culture are powerful influences in students' lives. They are enticing, popular, and provide neatly packaged worldviews. As Christian role models, we are guiding students in how to live in this secular world as Jesus-followers. We must show them how to take their own thoughts captive and how to see the world, themselves, and others as God does.  

Every Subject Area Reflects God's Design  

If we have not effectively integrated biblical worldview into our lessons, we are sending students a message that our faith is segmented and does not intersect with the "real" world. Instead, when we teach every subject area through a biblical lens, students see how their faith is connected to and informs every area of life.  

We Are Developing Students' Spiritual Lives  

Students spend about 1,000 hours in school a year. What a ministry we have in which we can daily impact students' spiritual lives in the context of a loving, God-honoring community! As stated in James 3, teachers are called to a high standard. We must be intentional and pray for wisdom daily. And then we ask the Holy Spirit to do the transformative work in students' hearts.