Is it Really Christian Education?

James Riley Estep Jr. clearly differentiates Christian Education from any other form of education in “What Makes Education Christian?” This topic is very critical for ministry leaders as we frame how we approach Christian education and what would aid in the process.

One of the points he makes is that theology must be integral in the content and process for education to be considered Christian. He goes on to explain how there is the intentional coupling of theology with social science theories. The influence of each must be in a ratio that maintains the authenticity and perception of the church. There must be the adequate use of Christian Scripture and tradition for it to be considered Christian Education.

Then, Estep adds that a crisis has emerged because of the limited integration of theology in Christian education. I tend to agree with his observation. In recent times, I have observed how we are allowing the integration of the sciences to displace the presence of theology in the church. It is being done in subtle ways through the songs and discussions forums, and more explicitly through the sermons shared from the pulpit. It appears that persons would prefer that the Scriptures or traditions are left out of the content and process of Christian education.

When congregants or audiences resigns to this comfort, it is unfortunate, but it is even more alarming when ministry leaders settle for this level as well. Estep Jr. calls this level disintegration which is the lowest level of integration. This is a dangerous position for the church to be in as we would lose the authority of the church, and the world would begin to question the authenticity and relevance of the church. In fact, these questions are being raised already. To avoid these threats to the church and her structure, Christian Education must be paradigmatic, “where the social sciences and theology are both valued as necessary and legitimate, and both are used simultaneously, and interactively.”

Ultimately, I have a clearer understanding of what makes education Christian. Before reading the chapter, I understood Christian education as the passing on of biblical truths, whether formally or informally. I was introduced to the course during a course in my undergraduate studies. At that time, I was exposed to the different ways that Christian education is done, whether through the church, or parachurch organizations. Now that I have interacted with the content, I would describe Christian education as the balance of theology with social science theories in the content and process of education.

Additionally, I now have a deeper appreciation for the integration of social sciences in Christian education. When I first began theological studies, I was amazed at the presence of sociological concepts and theories. All along, I elevated theology over sociology. On a scale of 1-5, I think I was at a 3 in fulfilling the practical implications. Now, I value its role some more in the process and the importance of being intentional in maintaining the balance.