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The Lutheran Grade School:

A Light Shining in a Dark Place

Our Lord’s will is that His children might be more and more “conformed to the image of His Son” (Rom. 8:29). There was a time in our country when the educational philosophy of the public school was not in direct conflict with Christianity. Today, however, there can be no doubt that Secular Humanism is the prevalent philosophy of secular society, and that it is found also in the public schools. This approach to teaching is designed to produce children who are conformed to the ways of this world, not the Lord’s ways. Consider this comparison:

Humanism and Christianity ———————————————————————-

Standard of Truth ———————————————————————- Man sifts through his theories to God’s Inspired word is the only discover the changing truths which source of truth for the faith are relevant for himself and his and life of every believer situation. through all lands and all ages. ———————————————————————-

Basis of Development ———————————————————————- People are basically good. The We are by nature dead in sin. teacher’s job is to build on that The teacher applies God’s Word, goodness in each child. Secular for only in Christ are we saved education can save the world. and equipped for God-pleasing

works. ———————————————————————-

Purpose of Education ———————————————————————- We should lead the child to devel- We lead the child to Jesus to op his character, talents, and find in Him salvation, as well “self-esteem” so he can make the as the strength and will to use most of himself. the gifts God has given, for His

Glory. ———————————————————————-

Motives in Education ———————————————————————- Individual accomplishment is pur- Christ’s love is instilled, so sued to instill personal pride and that we serve Him in thanks, “positive self-image”. Christ’s love is used to promote

service. ———————————————————————-

Discipline ———————————————————————- Since each child determines his God’s infallible Word points a own truth, discipline must help person away from his own deceits, him select what is best for so that each is brought back to himself. God’s ways, for the good of all.

— Submitted to the Spokesman by a CLC pastor; slightly amended by

the editor.