Discussion Board 1 Reply 2: Damian Jefferson
Damian, I found your claim that Christian schools must uphold the governing laws in
addition to the expectations of God to be an interesting point. Though Christian schools are
considered a private entity and are not governed the same way as other schools, it is interesting
to make the argument that they should follow the governing laws of the land and God. The US
Government certainly has regulations in place to ensure that all exceptional and general students
have a quality education, but it depends upon those who are teaching the students. Mark 16:15
which states, “and he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole
creation.” This gospel or teaching, or any other words used to describe the ultimate meaning
behind the verse fits in nicely with what the government has put into motion with their
legislation on the No Child Left Behind. As teachers, we should not leave any child without our
word, though it may not be the exact word of God, we are able to put forth our Christian beliefs
to help better a society, and no matter how small the society may be. This society can be just our
classroom, our school, or even our school district, but we are able to use the gospel to still be a
Christian leader in a secular setting.
As Christians, God instills in the heart of His people, to love everyone and love them well
no matter our circumstances or another individual. I am always reminded of this when I read 1
Corinthians 13:4-7, "Love is patient, love it kind, it does not envy it does not boast, it is not
proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no
record of wrong. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, it
always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." (NIV) I often replace the word "love" with my
name to see how well I love others, and this often put things into perspective. As stated by
Ackerman, "We need to reach all people, to include diverse and struggling learners in our
schools and do all we can to help them be successful" (2012). We cannot change how students
are born into this world, but teachers are blessed with the unique opportunity to greatly
impacting the lives of all exceptional and general students for the cause of Christ. By doing so,
we are fulfilling the Great Commission.
References
Ackerman, B. (2012). G.U.I.D.E. Differentiated instruction for Christian educators. Lynchburg,
Va.: Liberty University Press.
The Holy Bible, NIV.
