Written by: Graham Yoko
Article source: JOY! Magazine

In an era marked by rapid social and technological changes, the role of education in shaping young minds is more significant than ever. The assumption that school-going children are guaranteed to have at least a basic knowledge of the Bible and stories like Noah and the ark, David and Goliath, or Jonah and the whale, is no longer valid. Church schools play a crucial role in integrating faith and learning. The next generation needs to be anchored to the Rock – Christ Jesus – and geared to the times.

Our broken education system
The education system in South Africa is based on an assumption that all learners are physically, emotionally, and academically equal as they begin their schooling in Grade R. Learners are placed on the education “conveyor belt” and given a prescribed curriculum that must be completed in a maximum period of 14 years (12 years if all goes well, and 14 years if a learner is held back for a maximum of two grades for non-achievement). At no point are learners “diagnosed” before being enrolled at a school. In medical terms, this would be defined as prescription without diagnosis, which constitutes malpractice. The current education system is an example of this malpractice.

According to the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (2021 PIRLS) the majority (81%) of Grade 4 learners in South Africa cannot read for meaning in any language, including their home languages.

It’s time for the Church to shine in education
One of the amendments in the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) bill is the imprisonment of parents who do not enrol their children at a public or independent school. There are, however, not enough public schools to accommodate the number of learners that need to be enrolled.

According to the 2022 census, 85,3% of South Africans claim to be Christians. This provides a God-given opportunity for the Church to arise and take responsibility for the education of the next generation. By establishing church schools in facilities that are possibly unused or underutilised from Monday to Friday, churches can provide a solution. The Church appears conspicuous by its absence in addressing the education crisis in South Africa and providing a Godly alternative.

Why Christian education?
According to Psalm 78:1-7, God commands the transfer of His testimony from one generation to the next. Judges 2:10 bears testimony to the fact that when the children of Israel neglected to pass on the miracles that God had done to the next generation, the result was that they did evil in the sight of God and worshipped foreign gods. In the absence of knowledge about the goodness of God, evil is bound to prosper. As it was in the Bible days, so it is today – we run the risk of losing the next generation if we neglect to provide them with the opportunity to hide God’s Word in their hearts so that they will not sin against Him (Ps 119:11). This cannot be effectively achieved in an hour every Sunday.

Integration of faith and learning
In a world where secularism dominates most educational institutions, a church school offers a counterbalance, ensuring that biblical principles are integrated with academic subjects. This integration fosters a holistic understanding of the world, encouraging students to see the relevance of their faith in every area of their lives.

For example, in a mathematics class at a church school, students may explore the order and precision found in the universe as evidence of God’s design in creation. In literature, students are able to analyse moral dilemmas from a biblical perspective.

Character formation and moral development
Church schools go beyond academic achievements; they prioritise character formation and moral development. The emphasis on moral values and ethical conduct creates an environment where students learn to make decisions filtered through biblical principles. Education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but also about shaping individuals who contribute positively to society and have a clear understanding of God’s plan for their lives.

In a church school setting, virtues such as honesty, integrity, compassion, and humility are not merely taught; they are lived out by teachers and staff, serving as powerful examples for learners. The aim is to produce graduates who not only excel academically, but also exhibit Christ-like qualities in their interactions with others.

Fostering a safe and supportive community
The church school cultivates a sense of community that goes beyond the classroom. The shared faith creates a bond among students, teachers, and parents, fostering a supportive environment where everyone is committed to the well-being of others. This sense of community provides emotional and spiritual support, creating a safe space for students to explore and express their faith.

Academic excellence
While church schools prioritise faith-based education, they also strive for academic excellence. The goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their academic pursuits and future careers. By maintaining high academic standards, these schools demonstrate that a strong commitment to faith does not come at the expense of educational quality. Many church schools provide a challenging curriculum, often exceeding the standards set by secular institutions. The integration of faith into the learning process enhances critical thinking skills and encourages a deeper understanding of the subjects. As a result, graduates of church schools are well-prepared to excel in higher education and the workforce.

Focus on salvation, not just graduation
Learners must be guided to understanding God’s plan of salvation – equipping them with academic skills and expertise unlocks their full potential. The importance of churches establishing and supporting Christian schools cannot be overstated. The time is now – take action and start a church school in your community today.

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Date published: 16/01/2024

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