Navigating Your Child’s Education: A Christian Perspective
What should I do about my child's education?
I have noticed a growing trend in my area due to changes in state laws that allow for greater school choice. The increased accessibility to different models of education has led more and more families to explore alternatives to the public school system. In the last few months, there hasn’t been a week that goes by without hearing—directly or indirectly—of parents wrestling with what to do about their child’s education. As a parent, I have wrestled with this personally and pastorally for a long time. This article is based on my reading and reflection, both on the current state of education and on my attempt to form a theology and philosophy of education for my own children. With so many options available, the decision can feel overwhelming—but I hope to offer some biblical and practical considerations to help guide you.
Important Truths to Remember
We Are Accountable to God for Our Children’s Education
As parents, we are ultimately accountable for our children’s education.
Scriptural References:
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 – “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children...”
Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Ephesians 6:4 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
We will give an account before God for the choices we make, whether actively or passively.
We Are Free in Christ
This is an important reminder for everyone reading this. We are free in Christ regarding the details of our children’s education. Biblically, there are no commands specifically forbidding state, private, or home-based education.
This does not mean there is no best answer, nor does it mean there isn’t a wrong answer for a particular situation. What it does mean is that this is an issue referred to as adiaphora—a matter of Christian freedom. As believers, God gives us the freedom to choose what best fits our situation, and we are not called to condemn others for their specific choice.
However, just because something is permissible does not mean all things are beneficial. (1 Corinthians 10:23 – “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.”)
All the Treasures of Knowledge Are Hidden in Christ
Here is a foundational truth—not only for your child’s education but for your own personal pursuit of knowledge. All knowledge is revealed by God. Scripture is clear that God communicates with us in two primary ways:
Special revelation – through the Word of God.
General revelation – through creation, a gift of common grace available to all.
God is the author of all scientific knowledge, logic, mathematics, philosophy, literature, and language. All of it belongs to Him and ultimately finds its roots in Christ.
This means that any education not grounded in the truth of God’s creation and sovereign rule over the universe will inevitably descend into scientific materialism. Without the revelation of Scripture, we lose all grounding for knowledge, morality, and meaning in this life.
The Fear of the Lord Is the Beginning of Knowledge
Proverbs 1:7 articulates this truth: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
A reverent relationship with God is the foundation for all true knowledge and wisdom. We cannot truly understand the facts of the universe—or the ethical application of what we learn—without grounding in our relationship with our Heavenly Father through Christ.
Helpful Questions to Ask
What Is the Ultimate Goal of Your Child’s Education?
Is the goal graduation? College acceptance? Or to raise moral citizens? As Christians, our highest aim for our children should be that they are brought up in the nourishment and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).
Are We Creating Men and Women Without Chest?
C.S. Lewis argued over 80 years ago that education systems without grounding in morality, beauty, and truth produce what he called “men without chest”—people unable to form a well-rounded worldview. Unfortunately, this trend has only continued. A society of “men without chest” produces technocrats, bureaucrats, or intellectuals who may achieve great material or scientific feats but lack moral wisdom—which can lead to corruption, cruelty, and cultural decay.
What Is the Philosophy and Theology Behind Your Child’s Education?
Are you redeeming the time? (Ephesians 5:15–16)
Parents have only so many days with their children before they are sent into the world. Are you using that time to glorify God in their lives?What is the worldview embedded in the education your children are receiving?
A Multitude of Concerns
Many parents wrestle with legitimate concerns when considering which educational model to pursue for their children. Time, finances, educational quality, health, and special needs can all present real barriers in making a choice. These worries are understandable—especially for children with disabilities, like my own. It is important to remember, however, that children in public schools can still grow up to be Godly, Christ-centered individuals. The key is how we use the time we do have with them: helping them build a foundation of theological knowledge and forming a biblical worldview that will guide them no matter where they learn. Resources and assistance are available to help parents navigate these challenges, so you are not alone in this journey.
Why People Are Leaving
In recent years, more families are choosing alternatives to public schools for a variety of reasons. Safety concerns and the fear that children are falling behind academically weigh heavily on parents. Some families realized during COVID-19, when children were learning from home, that they were capable of taking a more hands-on role in their education. Additionally, state education grants and other financial resources have made alternative schooling more feasible. Ultimately, families are seeking environments that align more closely with their values and provide greater control over the academic, moral, and spiritual development of their children.
Helpful Resources to Continue Wrestling
The Lost Tools of Learning by Dorothy L. Sayers
On Secular Education by R.L. Dabney
For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
The Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis
Conclusion
Our responsibility as parents is weighty but liberating. God calls us to teach, nurture, and guide our children, yet He also gives us freedom to make decisions according to our circumstances. The ultimate goal is not a perfect school or curriculum, but to raise children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord, rooted in Christ and prepared to glorify Him in every sphere of life.