Romans 12:2 "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
I listened to a sermon the other day and was struck by the pastor and his commentary regarding Romans 10:17 “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard from the word of Christ.” The pastor’s message emphasized the importance of engagement in the Word of God in order for faith to grow. We cannot grow in faith separate from the Word. So my question is this, why don’t more people send their children to Lutheran schools? If faith comes from hearing the Word, then why would parents intentionally remove their children from faith strengthening opportunities?
We have many a fine public school system in our country, but that education is limited. Despite the Christian men and women who teach in these schools, the law prohibits them from sharing their faith. The law forbids the use God’s Word as a foundation for living a life. In fact, non-Christian schools often teach children they can find or create truth apart from Christ and the Bible, and that is a lie. This is a devastating way for children to begin to think and reason. We are commanded to align ourselves with God’s truths, not create our own or follow the world. Romans 12:2 “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
We know there are fake news outlets and stories. We also need to caution ourselves from accepting a twisted world view on education. Bigger is not necessarily better, nor is shinier….but then, again free is free. Lutheran schools are not a punishment, rather a reward. Love your children enough to immerse them in Christ’s love and forgiveness each and every day.
The one universal aspect of Lutheran education is its intentional dedication to the Word of God. In nearly every Lutheran school the Old Testament and New Testament are the foundation classes of a religion curriculum. Students and teachers alike discuss matters of our world from a Biblical perspective. Students are emboldened to put on “the whole armor of God” as they battle in a sinful world. We do not shy away from the world, rather we embrace Jesus’ own words in John 10:10 “I came that you may have life, and have it to the full.”
I am proud of Lutheran schools and their dedication to teaching God’s Word in all its truth and purity. This is not only what children need, but what we all need in order for faith to grow. The world will always be flawed with sinfulness. However, we have been given the answer, the truth. You and I know faith begins and ends with God’s Word. Check out your local Lutheran School and acknowledge the priority of hearing the Word. A guaranteed life-changing event.
Dr. Stelmachowicz