Christian School or Public School?

I

iansmith Feb 7, 2007

Hello friends,

Simply put, I was wondering which one you would prefer yourself and for what reasons. This could be for your children's education, Christian colleges vs. Public colleges etc.

I'm personally the product of public school, I attended public schools all my life, went to a public university and accepted Christ as a university student.

Now as I work for a Christian non-profit I am interacting with a lot of 'christian schools,' but I'm wondering whether christian schools (besides for training clergy) are even necessary.

S

sermonindex Feb 7, 2007

I would suggest ~~[b]~~NEITHER[/b]. Today's Christian Schools have almost just as much of a worldy influence in it as the public schools. Sure, a Christian school gives a Christian world viewpoint in their curriculum. I'm speaking about the other students... and the influence they will have on your children.

I recommend ~~[b]~~HOMESCHOOLING[/b].

Our oldest is 12 and has never set foot in a school building, and he and his 10 yr old brother both score 2 grades above where they would be if they were in public school on their yearly tests.

And before people claim homeschoolers dont get socialization... try keeping up with my wife for a week. I dare ya! The difference is, we ~~[b]~~choose[/b] who our kids socialize with.

Krispy

P

preacherafla Feb 7, 2007

Yeah Homeschool!!! We homeschool our girls and I would have it no other way. We give them biblical values and teaching. We develop a relationship that is often not seen in other students.
I once heard an evangelist that talked about homeschool as a training grounds to send their children out into the world as missionaries and that his children were homeschooled until they felt they were strong enough to stand on their own and then sent them into the school as a strong witness and missionary.
Yes, homeschool and teach them no compromise!

In His service,
Preacheraflame

C

ccchhhrrriiisss Feb 7, 2007

Hi iansmith...

This is a difficult question. Why? Because the answer will vary from person to person in regard to personal experience.

There are many individuals worried about the influences of "the world" upon their children. They try to "save" their kids from such temptations by enrolling them in "spiritual" schools. Unfortunately, the devil is no respecter of institutions. He is just as active in "Christian" schools as he is in "secular" schools. Should children and young adults be sheltered from the world -- or strengthened so that they can walk through the world? Should they be protected so that they will be ~~[u]~~unaffected[/u] by the world -- or should they be trained to ~~[u]~~affect[/u] the world as they walk through it?

~~[b]~~Elementary and High Schools[/b]

I am not married yet, so I wouldn't even know how to answer about children. My sister has had experience with public schools, private schools, Christian schools and homeschooling. She was concerned with the secular humanism being taught in today's public schools (even in locations like Tennessee and Texas). She immediately enrolled her two little boys into a local Christian school. Unfortunately, this was a DISASTER!

The school (which used both Abeka and the terrible ACE curriculum) was extremely unprofessional, and the educational quality of the children suffered greatly. In fact, only one of the "teachers" actually held a college degree, and some actually were high school dropouts without a GED. The Christian school's standardized test (the very outdated California Achievement Test [CAT]) indicated that they were doing well. However, a more up-to-date test indicated that most of the children were falling far behind in their education. In fact, the high school graduates underperformed drastically on their ACTs and SATs. The average score on the ACT was a 15 (the national average is a 21) and their SAT scores were all extremely low.

My sister then began the process of finding private schools. She enrolled them in the best she could afford. While the quality of education was higher, she still worried about the curriculum and secular methodology of the school.

Eventually, my sister relocated. She enrolled her children in a couple of different Christian schools, but her experience was the same. So she decided to homeschool.

It didn't take my sister long before she realized that homeschooling is a challenge. She tried various curriculum, eventually deciding that Abeka was the strongest. However, she realized rather quickly that homeschooling requires dedication on the part of the parents AND the children. It can become "easy" to put things off. My sister then adopted her husband's nieces (making four total children). My sister found it difficult to "help" all of her children. While it was convenient and a great way to "watch over" her kids, my sister noticed that her children were beginning to lack social interaction. Yes, they fellowshipped with other homeschool children. However, my sister felt that she was placing her kids into a "bubble." She questioned whether or not such "protection" was healthy for their spiritual and intellectual growth. They were, however, performing well in academic areas.

Eventually, my sister decided to enroll the children into public schools. She worried that the physical seperation was not fulfilling any sort of spiritual mandate other than protecting her kids. She now feels that the best thing is to strengthen the kids spiritually, and allow them to be a light to the world. She explains to them that they will hear things, see things, and "learn" things that are contrary to the Word of God. However, she encourages them to seek the face of God on all of these issues -- and to never accept a teacher's word (or the word of a textbook) upon face value.

Her children are doing quite well.

~~[b]~~Colleges and Universities[/b]

It is my opinion that the school matters. An education taken at a Christian college or university is probably better geared for a spiritual education (like a ministerial license or denominational ordination). Should a Christian attend a Christian College in order to obtain a "secular" degree? Regardless of how optimistically a school attempts to persuade enrollment, the name of the school matters somewhat when attempting to find a job. I know of several individuals who graduated from a major denominational University with "secular" degrees and have experienced terrible difficulty finding a job in their discipline.

Unless the Christian school has a great academic reputation, I would recommend that a student attend a state or reputable institution. State universities and colleges are typically less expensive and offer financial aid that can cover most, if not all, of the cost. Many states (like Texas) offer automatic grants and scholarships and tuition rebates to academically-strong graduates of public schools. Texas has the "Texas Grant" which pays for much of the tuition and living expenses of public school graduates with a "B" average or higher. These schools are also accredited. This means quite a bit to potential employers.

I suppose that the first thing that a potential college student must do is to choose a major. They must decide upon what type of job or career that they desire -- remembering that some majors limit their ability to find desired employment. How many Theology, Pastoral Studies, or Youth Studies majors do you know with a career outside of the Church? Thus, the student should frugally investigate such matters. Many schools offer statistics of their graduates' employment.

Ultimately, the student should choose a school that will offer the best academic and educational value. While Christian schools seems like a great place to give your children "Christian" things to do and "Christian" friends, some of them are just as "secular" as state schools. Sadly, many of them are not know for their positive academic integrity. One particular Assembly of God school is known for the easy academic requirements of their students. Project and homework deadlines are easily extended, and good grades are "easy" to come by. As an undergrad, several fellow students transferred from that school. They were immediately ill-equipped to handle their courses.

Of course, this sort of discussion is certainly open to opinion. I suggest much study and prayer!

:-)

D

deltadom Feb 8, 2007

I went to both Christian School and Public School.
I had a term at a public school. Even thou I was sceptical I learnt scipture which I didnt know what to do with but I know that i left me in good stead , but just because someone is in a christian school does not mean your children your safe from the dangers of the world.
I went to Public School aswell for a few terms but it got me to love my old school better but it is hard question.
DOm

V

vico Feb 8, 2007

Amen Krispy!

I'm 18yrs old and I was homeschooled for... well my whole life actually! If given the choice, I wouldn't choose any differently! I thank God that my parents made the choice for homeschooling!

I don't think I would be where I am with God today if it weren't for my parents decision to teach me and my siblings at home.

BTW, if you think that it'll be too much work, talk to my mom, she's currently teaching 5 kids at home, three of us have already graduated (that means that she's been teaching for 16yrs) and the youngest just started school this year (that means she has another 12yrs to go)! God gives grace!

K

Koinonia2 Feb 8, 2007

I experienced both Christian and public schools as a youth. My time in the public school system was the most demoralizing period of my life, and my spiritual life suffered greatly due to the over-exposure to anti-Christ teachings, conversations, gossip, friendships, relationships, etc. I say "anti-Christ" very carefully. Many today like to use the term "Godless" to portray the magnitude of the situation, but even that does not go far enough in expressing it.

Personally, I would never choose to send my children to any public school. It puts an unmerited burden on children to expect them to go into hell day in and day out and be a "light of the world" there. No Christian school will be perfect, but with a lot of prayer and due consideration, many provide a good alternative. When the time comes, though, I intend, by God's grace, to homeschool.

G

Goldminer Feb 8, 2007

Both of my daughters went to Christian school from k - 12 grade. It was the best decision I ever made. The school they went to scored higher than the state on test scores. The teachers were committed to bringing up the children to love God. Their teachers even went to camp and every other function with them because it was more than a job to them. My girls told me they never knew anybody in school who did drugs. It wasn't a small school either.

At times my girls would say they would like to have seen what public school was like, but when my one daughter had my granddaughter reach school age, you guessed it, she didn't want her to go into public school and now she is in sixth grade in an excellent christian school.

I have never regretted for a moment sending them to a place where godly standards were upheld. Also we had to sign released forms stating that they could be spanked it needs be. We did that and were very greatful that discipline was an important part of their education. They were not allowed to get away with disrespect so grew up to be respectful.

I think homeschool can be just as awesome if the parents are disciplined themselves. I have run across a situation where the parents were lax with their childrens education and the kids could barely read.

I would not have put my children in the hands of educators who hand out condems and teach how to have safe sex, or about my two daddies. I have a teenage girl who works for me who was appalled at a book that she called filthy that she is required to read. Even the coaches in this part of the world cuss out their students. No thanks.

I don't put ungodliness in my own brain and I don't put it in my kids either. I know we can't protect them from everything, but it doesn't hurt to do our best. I know if we have to put them in public school because of financial or personal reasons we can committ them into God's keeping and cast all out care on Him. But for me if at all possible I would choose christian school again.

I

iansmith Feb 8, 2007

Maybe it's because I was brought up through the public school system -but the way I look at it is that some of the 'Christian school' and 'homeschool' kids I've met over the years are some of the most flakey shallow Christians around. Granted, I've only met a few.

I think I've got a different experience having been involved in a campus ministry on a public university campus where like only 10% of the student body is Christian. When someone experiences God, you can see fireworks!

I don't know, maybe my view of Christian schools has been distorted by a few bad eggs.

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

I think homeschool can be just as awesome if the parents are disciplined themselves. I have run across a situation where the parents were lax with their childrens education and the kids could barely read.

This is true... not all homeschoolers are homeschooling for the right reasons. Not all homeschoolers are Christians. There are good and bad in anything.

But I have found (and there are about 500 homeschoolings families in the county we live in) that the bad ones make up ~~[i]~~maybe[/i] 2% of homeschoolers. Most we know are extremely dedicated to their children, and the ones who are Christians are sold out to God.

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

I don't know, maybe my view of Christian schools has been distorted by a few bad eggs.

I should say it is. You're generalizing while admitting that you havent known very many. Thats like buying a gallon of milk only to find out that it has gone bad, so you shoot every cow you see.

There are testimonies on this very site that attest to the success of homeschooling.

Those who are obedient to Psalm 1 will see the benefits of obeying God. His Word does not come back void.

One can not send their children to government schools for 8 - 10 hours a day to be indoctrinated in a god-less, anti-christ education... and counter it at home. It's a losing proposition.

Without over-generalizing, because I realize there are exceptions... Christian kids who attend public schools can sometimes turn out to be the most compromised believers.

Krispy

5

5nva Feb 8, 2007

I agree with Krispy on this.

Sending your children to public school is like sending your children into a pack of wolves.

I know there are some children, usually teens that are solid in their Christian walk that can stand well in the public school but I would say very few.

I think if every Christian would really research and examine what the public schools teach and their agenda you would be hard pressed to come up with a reason not to homeschool.

Homeschoolers have a bad reputation because of the media and other people who don't understand the homeschool way.

We homeschool three and will do it for two more as they grow older. We love it and are very glad and thankful that we have the liberty to do it. Depending on where you live it may have more challanges but there are usually many people in every community to join together with for all kinds of activities.

I hope you find your answer.

Mike

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

ian,

I was educated in public schools my entire life, too. There is no doubt that that had a major influence on me concerning sex, drugs, alcohol, and everything else in between. However, by the grace of God, I was saved.

There are several ways you can look at your question. For me, I believe that God allowed me to have those experiences and survive, so that I can connect with others and have common ground to work from and help show them the way to Jesus.

In university, I met a lot of private school kids, which in your words 'were flakey' and I firmly believe that led them to rebel in areas that I did 10 years prior. They were isolated, or seperated from the 'real' world, so they did not know how to handle the pressures. By that time I was toning down, so I was more in control than they were.

As for Christian schools, I know very little, but since I am now Christian, when I have children I will deeply consider that route. On the other hand, I believe that allowing children in public schools will not necessarily, negitively impact them. I know many people who I went to school with that were not influenced by the same things as me. Attending a Christian school guarantees nothing.

No matter what school I choose for my children, it is my responsibility as a parent to be the voice of reason, until they learn the voice of Jesus.

As a child, I had to learn the hard way, because my parents, family, and friends never had any true values to base a relationship with me, which eventually allowed me to slip away. I will try my best not to let any of my children fall as far away from the truth that I did. No one did that for me. The only thing that will seperate me from my children is death.

(I know this is much easier said than done, since I have no children, but I guarantee that my child's first present from me will be a Bible. We will build on our relationship from there.)

Homeschooling is a good option as well, but like someone mentioned about having your children in a bubble, it does not seem like much of a free gift of life.

...I just talked to my fiancee on the phone and she initially said a Christian school would be best, but then we agreed that maybe a little bit of everything would be better...

infant to 7 - homeschooling
8 - 15 - Christian schooling
16 - 18 - public school
university - their choice (well, unless I was paying ;-) )

Anyway, like I said, I have no children, so I probably have no ground to stand on in this discussion. Although, diversity seems logical.

Thank God we have choices, as we know, some children get no schooling...ever...

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Homeschooling is a good option as well, but like someone mentioned about having your children in a bubble, it does not seem like much of a free gift of life.

The only people who say homeschoolers live in a bubble are people who dont know any homeschoolers. No offense, Brian.

We have a homeschool support group in our county that has over 300 families in membership. We have "enrichment" classes for the kids on fridays where they can take specialized classes. Not math or english... but classes in Roman History, Spanish, Fencing, Music... classes that perhaps some parents cant teach. Neither my wife or I know Spanish, so our boys take a class in Spanish.

Our kids are also very involved in 4-H.

We also do sports. Our two oldest have played youth football for 4 years now. During the winter one of the plays basketball for the YMCA, and the other wrestles for a Christian wrestling club and they go to wrestling tournaments in NC, SC, TN, GA & VA. This year he placed 2nd at the Dixie Nationals in Atlanta over Christmas.

Not to mention their involvement in church.

Our homeschool association also has activities going on all the time. There will be a roller skating party on Valentine's Day. They do a Christmas musical and perform it at local retirement homes. On Veteran's Day they are involved in ceremonies at the VA hospital.

There are missions trips for the teens. The younger kids do work-bee's for elderly people in the community. Involvement in local politics.

In fact... I would say that homeschoolers, on average, are more socially active than public school kids who are locked away in a classroom all day.

Who's in a bubble??

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

The only people who say homeschoolers live in a bubble are people who dont know any homeschoolers. No offense, Brian.

Krispy,

None taken! Actually, I'm kinda wondering if you have any room at your house for me?! :roll:
It really sounds great and I will deeply consider that as well.

Truly though, I feel that somesort of diversity would be equally beneficial. Whether that is only one year of public and Christian school and the rest home schooling. The children would benefit to see something different.

Anyway, I am sure I will change my tune, once I have my own, but I do like what you have done with your children.

God Bless Education,
Brian

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Anyway, I am sure I will change my tune, once I have my own

LOL... you bet it will!

I'm all for our children experiencing life. However, we have a lot of family that are not saved that insist we need to expose our children to "real life"... meaning worldliness, sin and debauchery. Steve Camp wrote a great song called "Shade For The Children" about how God wants parents to protect their children (who are really His to begin with) from the influences of the world.

If my sons grow up and never smoked pot (unlike me), have they missed anything? If they are virgins when they marry, have they missed anything?

We cant protect them forever. As they grow older we have to loosen the reigns and let them stand on their own. I understand that. But for as long as we can, my wife and I are determined to keep the pull of the world to a minimum. And it's not like they completely not exposed... they see the world in their football teammates. In football they here other kids cuss, they see parents throw fits at me (I coach), etc. At basketball the other night my son had his ball stolen.

They see enough of the world to know it's sick.

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Krispy,

Well, said! I think I just realized that part of me is defending public school, because I came from there and to admit that it is a horrible place to raise children, I would have to fully admit that I was horribly taught and raised. That is very humbling, but I accept the truth.

iansmith, originally posted this thread with the intentions of seeking some insight and thoughts as to what is better (public vs. Christian school), because I believe he wants the best for his (God's) children out of love.

I, too, would love whatever is best for all of God's children and if there was a way that you or I could provide that for them, then I am sure that we would. The best thing is to acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses in the circumstances that are presented to each family.

Not everyone has they same opportunity, nor the same information to base a qualified decision. A good conclusion has all the facts, although most families are limited with the physical and spiritual resources, so children ultimately suffer.

God Help Us ALL Raise Your Children,
BrianMira

P.S. I just wonder how my fiancee is going to handle homeschooling our 12 children!!! :-? :-P

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

In fact... I would say that homeschoolers, on average, are more socially active than public school kids who are locked away in a classroom all day.

That's for sure! If anything there is the temptation to get so caught up in extra-curricular activities so as to let the more important stuff go!
I am a homeschool graduate; never went to public or Christian school. I actually got my GED when I was 16...but that didn't mean that I stopped learning; I love studying and am continuing my education with an online Bible school.

There have been some really good things said on this thread in regards to education (Krispy, I ~~[i]~~love[/i] hearing you defend homeschooling; you are so good!) Parents have a choice as to what influences they allow into their children's lives. They are responsible for that influence. Your children will have friends and they will be influenced; but what environment is going to be the best for raising your children for the glory of God?
I like what Michael Pearl says about this. He says not to isolate your children but to ~~[i]~~insulate[/i] them.
I think there is more freedom in homeschooling for ministry opportunities. Because of homeschooling I was able to be more involved in nursing home ministry, street evangelism, volunteering at ministries like Voice of the Martyrs, just helping a needy family, and the list goes on...
With homeschooling the classroom isn't limited to the schoolbooks/classroom. One learns about politics/government by actually getting involved with a campaign, or lobbying at the capital on a certain bill. It allows greater creativity. I have a little sister who when she was about eight or nine built this tree house with a swing contraption on a pulley. We called it a 'suicide [edit]slope[edit]'. Yes, it was crazy, but she was being creative. Oh, and no, no one was seriously injured on it...just a [edit]twisted[edit] arm (that was the end of the pulley!).
I have to recommend homeschooling over public or Christian school. But it does take dedication on the part of the parents, and it's not easy. But there are some great resources out there to help make it easier.

And for college, one might consider accelerated distance learning. I know of one guy who got his degree in business in less than six months and for around $5,000. And he also wrote a book about it and now has a ~~[url=http://www.globallearningstrategies.org/default.php]~~website[/url].

Well, there's my two-bits on the matter. :-P

P.S. Brian, are you and your fiance planning to live in S. Korea after you're married? There is an increase of homeschooling families in S. Korea, which means more resources.

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Krispy, I love hearing you defend homeschooling; you are so good!

Oooo... I hate to be called a "defender", cuz to me, there is nothing to defend. I prefer "Homeschool Apologist"! LOL

:-)

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

"Homeschool Apologist"!

Oh, that's even better! :-P

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Brian... I, too, am a product of the public schools. I believed in evolution. I believed abortion was ok. I believed in having as much sex as I could. I believed in pot, rock and football. That was my religion. I got in fights almost on a weekly basis. (I know... it's hard for everyone here to believe! lol!!)

Yea, I could read and write when I graduated. But I had absolutely no moral compass other than doing whatever I thought would feel good at the moment. Thats what the public schools did for me.

And thats why my kids will never go there. If I have to work 5 jobs in order for my wife to stay home and teach our children, thats what I'll do.

By the way, I dont question Ian's intent for asking his question. Not at all. Who doesnt want the best for their children? We all do. I'm glad he asked because if he hadnt we wouldnt be having this discussion.

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Krispy, I am agreeing with you...so there is no need to 'defend' anything, with me anyway...

I learned everything you did and it is almost unfortunate that I could not get grades in fighting, drugs, football, or sex, because I would have done quite well.

Since this post I have 'changed my tune'.

God Bless 'Christian Music'
Brian

S

sermonindex Feb 8, 2007

Oh... sorry. I wasnt trying to convince you of anything. I know we're in agreement. I was merely telling my own story, and how a public education was not the best influence on my own life.

Just cuz I come off passionately doesnt mean I'm on the attack! LOL 8-)

Krispy

L

lovejt Feb 8, 2007

I am single and its one of my hopes that if the Lord provides me with a family that my children will be homeschooled. I have voiced this over to some and most people think i'm unrealistic. Especially living in CA. How can you afford to live while both parents today are working, etc, etc? Well, i think as a single, there are some things we can do to prepare prior to having a family. There's also that thing where we can submit our requests to God with a great burden and in His miraculous ways provide the desires of our hearts. I know some homeschoolers and they turned out wonderful. Alot of the concerns i have heard, especially social development, were all shot down by the lives of these people. So, i would start praying now while single and ask for God's will to provide a way for homeschool to happen if you feel strong about it. Sometimes, moving may need to be considered for living standards. It depends on individual circumstances.

S

sermonindex Feb 9, 2007

P.S. Brian, are you and your fiance planning to live in S. Korea after you're married? There is an increase of homeschooling families in S. Korea, which means more resources.

Roniya,

You and Krispy have made some great points for homeschooling and my fiancee have since been discussing that option. It is funny, she started defending public school with the same points I did. So, I will show her this thread and then we will discuss it further.

As for our plans, she and I will be getting married here on May 5th and then AGAIN in Canada on July 7th (07/07/07). In the meantime, I am awaiting acceptence into a divinity college in eastern Canada. I should hear from them this week, however, I have to wait until June 1st to apply for student loans. This means that I will not know anything concrete until about July 1st.

If everything goes through, then we will stay in Canada for 3+ years to study. She wants to earn a degree as well. If I do not get accepted into the masters program or for the student loans, then my plan, for now (which is open for advice or suggestions), is to come back to Korea and work as an English teacher to continue paying off previous student loans.

Hopefully, I earn a masters degree and then continue following my purpose. We have in our hearts that we would both like to spread the Goods News all over the world. I have very little experience with the Word and history, so I feel that 3 short years of focused study would be beneficial (again, open for or advice suggestions).

I would like several children and she says she could only handle two...maybe three :-P ...but I will try to 'encourage' her for more (maybe I can get five out of her!!!). Although, we both know that God has a plan for us. Our open discussion about it is more of a joke, because I tell her that we are having 12 and NOW she has to homeschool them all!!! My way of thinking is to aim high and get more, rather than aiming low and getting less.

I love Korea and would not mind if God wanted me to stay here my entire life. I have been to several churches here and they have always been welcoming to me and very encouraging. If that were the case, we might take your advice on homeschooling, because Korean children and adults can be a little 'racist' when it comes to 'mixed' blood (well, unless you are Hynes Ward, so I guess we have to be exceptional to be accepted).

She and I have started our relationship with God as our first love. We both understand that in God's hands we will always be safe. So, even though I say that I want this or that, ultimately it is all up to God.

iansmith's, original question seems to be getting answered here: Q: Is public or christian school better? A: Neither. Teach your own children and if you are unable to do that take great care in your choice, but make sure you are actively involved with them throughout their (your) entire life.

Like I said though, I have no children, so I am really talking out of my pie hole (I read someone wanted to talk about pies on sermonindex).

God Bless those that Love,
BrianMira :-D

S

sermonindex Feb 9, 2007

I would like several children and she says she could only handle two...maybe three ...but I will try to 'encourage' her for more (maybe I can get five out of her!!!). Although, we both know that God has a plan for us. Our open discussion about it is more of a joke, because I tell her that we are having 12 and NOW she has to homeschool them all!!! My way of thinking is to aim high and get more, rather than aiming low and getting less.

That's great what you said about aiming high! The reason I asked about you staying in South Korea was because we have a lady in our church whose son is a missionary in South Korea to families. Here is the ~~[url=http://www.familymission.org/main/home.php]~~website[/url] for this ministry. Perhaps the Lord will cause you to cross paths with Brad or one of the families involved in this ministry.

I can understand your fiance's mindset on children. From what I've heard four or five children is a HUGE family in South Korea...so I can well imagine her response to twelve!

A book that just came to mind is the story about the Pent family. It's called ~~[url=http://www.visionforum.com/booksandmedia/productdetail.aspx?productid=85726&categoryid=163]~~'Ten P's in a Pod'[/url]. This is a really neat story about this family who not only homeschooled but also travelled and ministered as a family. They have a very inspiring testimony on reading the Bible together as a family.

She and I have started our relationship with God as our first love. We both understand that in God's hands we will always be safe. So, even though I say that I want this or that, ultimately it is all up to God.

Amen. It sounds like you're started in the right direction. :-)

May the Lord bless both you and your fiance as you follow God together.

This is a major bunny trail from the main topic but...here are some neat quotes by Oswald Chambers to his future wife, Biddy.
"I am more and more certain God is leading to great and solemn things in the future for you and me together for Him. Never fear. He is training you."
"Yet, He is preparing us for what He is preparing for us."
"Be patient and so utterly confident in God that you never question His ways or your waiting time."
"We will be the two sent out by Him. I need you to keep me strong in the way He calls."
"I see loyalty to Him and nothing else and you will help me to be loyal to Him."
"I can see how mightily God will use us as one. I am finding out how much Mrs. Reader Harris was behind her husband. The public saw him, but she was the power behind the throne. He is preparing us both for the same power and service."
~~[i]~~Taken from letters to Biddy in the book 'Abandoned to God'[/i]

K

kriska82 Feb 9, 2007

I went to a Christian school from Kindergarten through 12th grade. I will not send my children to Christian schools someday because I believe that it goes against what we as Christians are on earth to do. We are commanded in Matthew 28:18-20, The Great Commission, to make disciples = followers of Christ. We are also commanded to 'go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.' If your child is a Christian then they should be in the world preaching the Gospel. Christian schools in my opinion, do not allow for what we are commanded to do, preach the Gospel, to be fulfilled. Christian school kids as a result of not being in the 'world' become very passive in ministry. Jesus Himself came into the world in order to save the world, 'to seek and to save the lost.' We as Christians are to be like Christ and how can we seek and save the lost when we are in a place where everyone claims to be a Christian, thinks they are a Christian, or in fact is a Christian. I went through 13 years of Christian school and left believing I was a Christian because I believed in Christ, had said the sinners prayer, and was a moral person, but in all reality I was not a Christian. I did not make Christ Lord of my life at the time. I did not deny myself daily and take up my cross and follow Him. In fact, it took me another five years after I graduated from the Christian school in order for me to realize that I was never a Christian. I fear for Christian school kids who think they are Christians because they have so much head knowledge about the Word and they seem to be living moral and upright lives for Christ. Sadly, but truly it took me about three years of rebellion once I got out of the Christian school in order for me to hit bottom and realize my need for Christ in my life. Save your children from this and put them in the world where they can see how wicked it is and how mankind needs a Savior and hopefully they will see for themselves how sinful they are and that this sin is separating them from God on their own. I now go to a public university and thank God that I have a Christian organization here called Campus Outreach. They preach and follow the Great Commission. Evangelism is key and most Christian schools are not even evangelizing to their own students. Campus Outreach is great because you get godly influence and Biblical teaching the equips you with the tools to impact our campus for Christ and to grow in our relationship with our Savior. What we need is more Christians in the public school and more of a step up by Christian adults who will pour their lives into raising up and training children how to follow the Great Commission in the world without being of the world.

I've also read through some of these opinions on here and I'm ashamed that so many people are mentioning test scores as why to send their children to a Christian school when there are millions of souls in our public school system that need to be told and showed the love of God and how the greatest gift ever is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Saving souls OR Better test scores? Please, open your eyes.

One more thing: If you train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. Sheltering your children is not the route to take, but teaching your children will have an even greater impact. Teach you children about Christ. Live as godly examples for them to imitate.

G

graybeard Feb 9, 2007

My children are now grown and 2 out of 3 are married with children.
i think one of the wisest decisions we made is that my wife would stay home until the children were in school or almost so. this was a big financial hit for us but we believed God would honor this and that the time investment in our children would pay bigger dividends than the money my wife could earn. as i look at my childrem today i think we were correct.

we sent them to public school and home schooled them at night and on the weekends. my main concern for them was not the content of their brains but the condition of their spirit. the mind is important but not primary. no matter how much good info we pour into their minds if they don't know Jesus personally and intimitely it is of no avail.

also i always considered them our primary disciples. as they lived with us day to day they were able to decide by watching us if Jesus was for real.

was Jesus 'home schooled'?

S

sermonindex Feb 9, 2007

Kriska... I respect your opinions, and you need to do what you believe God has called you to do.

Having said that, 5 year children are not missionaries. The Bible is clear that we are to teach our children God's Laws when they go to sleep, when they rise up, when they are eating and when they are walking down the road.

Unless you're prepared to spend equal time everyday to offset the godless education and wicked influences they will experience every single day in the public schools, then you will be fighting a losing battle. Your child will hopefully come out the other side with their faith in tact... but many times they do not. Or at most they are a Christian who is a worldly compromiser. Rarely does a child get thru 12 years of public schools as a Charles Spurgeon.

We who homeschool look at it several ways.

The boat analogy:

When they build a ship... where do they build it? Out in the ocean? No. They build it in the shipyard on dry land. Not until the last rivet is in place, and they know it's waterproof do they launch it into the ocean. The same thing, we believe, is true for children. We don't believe throwing our children to the wolves and calling it a "mission field" is effective. When a missionary goes to a mission field they don't go there to be taught... they go there to teach. Calling a child a missionary and then sending them off to be taught a godless education is backwards.

Greenhouse analogy:

Not that different from the boat analogy... my wife begins growing tomatoes in her little green house before so that the roots and stalks are strong enough to withstand rain and wind. Once their are strong, she introduces them to the soil.

Get what I'm saying?

And we're not isolating our children from the world so they have no effect. If you think that, then obviously you didn't read anything I wrote. On top of everything my kids are involved in, they also go with me when I minister at the rescue mission. Unfortunately they cant go with me into the prisons, but they wish they could. They witness to their teammates in football, basketball & wrestling. Plenty of public school kids there.

Instead of throwing our kids to the wolves, we find ways for them to witness and minister ... but they are in environments that are controlled.

Someday, when you have kids of your own, and you look in their eyes and you realize that YOU must answer to God for how they are raised... you will probably sing a different tune.

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 9, 2007

we sent them to public school and home schooled them at night and on the weekends. my main concern for them was not the content of their brains but the condition of their spirit. the mind is important but not primary. no matter how much good info we pour into their minds if they don't know Jesus personally and intimitely it is of no avail.

Amen! My wife gave a seminar at a homeschool convention a couple weeks ago and she made the comment "My number one goal is to see my 4 sons grow to be godly men. If that happens, it matters not to me if they are digging ditches or corporate executives. Either way, I will have succeeded at homeschooling."

Krispy

S

sermonindex Feb 10, 2007

The boat analogy:
Greenhouse analogy:
Someday, when you have kids of your own, and you look in their eyes and you realize that YOU must answer to God for how they are raised... you will probably sing a different tune.
Krispy

Hey Krispy,

I have not heard those analogies before, but they do ring true. Actually, reading your post made me think of myself, when I was young and unlearned...yesterday! Today I am singing a new tune and actually so is my fiancee.

After a day of her saying that public school or christian school would be best, I showed her this thread. Then I asked her five minutes ago how we were going to raise our children to be godly. She mumbled with a smile...homeschooling ;-) .

God Bless those that Listen to New Music,
BrianMira

C

ccchhhrrriiisss Feb 10, 2007

Hi Krispy...

The boat analogy:
When they build a ship... where do they build it? Out in the ocean? No. They build it in the shipyard on dry land. Not until the last rivet is in place, and they know it's waterproof do they launch it into the ocean. The same thing, we believe, is true for children. We don't believe throwing our children to the wolves and calling it a "mission field" is effective. When a missionary goes to a mission field they don't go there to be taught... they go there to teach. Calling a child a missionary and then sending them off to be taught a godless education is backwards.

Herein lies the greatest flaw that I see with the motivation for such things as Christian schools (and sometimes, home schools). We treat the world as "vicious wolves." Christ saw them as "sheep having no shepherd." Yes, there are some ungodly influences in the public schools. But those things exist in all areas LIFE -- and they are not confined to an educational institution.

As a christian young person, I was grateful for parents who decided NOT to confine my education to what they tried to teach me. Both of my parents were highly educated and certainly qualified to teach me in the subjects necessary for college. Yet they respected my relationship with Christ enough to allow me to enter the world -- knowing full well that I would influence rather than be influenced.

Like another poster indicated, my "homeschool education" continued the moment I arrived home from the public school. My parents did their best to equip me to live in this world RATHER THAN remove me or shelter me from it. Every night, my parents questioned us concerning how our day went. They would correct us if something that we learned went against the Word of God (although such instances were rare).

Yes, the public school taught me the theory of evolution. Yes, there were curse words, ungodly conversations and general worldliness in the public school. But I was a light. I maintained a relationship with God that was actually desired by other students. I led several friends to the Lord in the high schools that I attended. I began a Bible Study that was attended by about 100 students and faculty members. I even prayed with some of my teachers.

Several years ago, the church that I attended started a Christian school. As a recent high school graduate, I volunteered to help at the school. I immediately noticed the problems that arose from the educational quality of the school (particularly, the outdated and substandard A.C.E. "School of Tomorrow" curriculum). Some students did their best with the "teach yourself using your workbook at your own pace" philosophy. However, a vast majority of them discovered how to "cheat" without breaking the rules (by memorizing the answers as they scored their own work). While the standardized tests used by the school (the old "California Achievement Tests" that were abandoned and considered untrustworthy by most public and private schools) showed that most of the students were ahead of their age group, subsequent testing of students that reentered public schools revealed that the vast majority were far behind in academic progress.

To its credit, homeschooling typically produces higher ACT and SAT scores compared with students that attended public school. While this is not always the case, it is certainly true as the mean. Unfortunately, there are some colleges that will simply not accept children from homeschools (or non-accredited Christian schools). Many schools will certainly consider admitting such students, but the fact that they "graduated" from a non-accredited school will count against them in the admissions process. As a graduate student, I was on the appeals board for students rejected during the admissions process at the University I attended. Sadly, there were many homeschoolers and Christian schoolers that were initially denied entrance. I usually rallied on their behalf -- as long as their ACT or SAT scores were high enough.

The only reason that I am saying this is to merely provide another side to the public school story. Some Christians kids can and will thrive in a public school environment. I suppose that the parents know their children better than anyone. When undertaking such an important decision, please consider all of the facts -- including the admission standards of the desired colleges and universities, as well as the condition of both the local schools.

I am not married (yet), so I have never had any children. As Krispy stated, my tune might change when I have children of my own. While I doubt that I would consider a Christian school (unless it really impressed me), I would certainly limit my choices to a public school or a homeschool. Yet I am still thankful for both the education that I received in the public schools, as well as the opportunity that I had to let my light shine. I carried that same attitude throughout my University experience.

:-)

S

sermonindex Feb 10, 2007

ccchhhrrriiisss wrote:
We treat the world as "vicious wolves." Christ saw them as "sheep having no shepherd." Yes, there are some ungodly influences in the public schools. But those things exist in all areas LIFE -- and they are not confined to an educational institution.
As a christian young person...
I am not married (yet), so I have never had any children. As Krispy stated, my tune might change when I have children of my own.
...I had to let my light shine. I carried that same attitude throughout my University experience.
:-)

Chris,

I agree that we should not treat all public school students as "vicious wolves", but rather lost sheep with potential. If it were not the case, I would be a wolf (in sheeps clothing), however, like I originally stated, by the grace of God I was born again and became a Christian (almost 10 years after high school).

To me you sound blessed with some intelligence and you were probably an exceptional Christian throughout your public school years, but I do not ever remember ANY Christians speak to me about Jesus.

This could be for two reasons. The first could be that there were not any Christians in my school (although, I know there were), or the second is that the ones who were there had no influence because their 'light' was not shining as bright or where it ought to have.

The only two occasions I recall anything about Christianity in my high school years was when we had a speaker come in who was an older graduate. After graduation he went to jail for ten years and in prison he received Jesus as his saviour.

The other was a grade 12 girl that most guys teased because she had big breasts and had a tendency to 'date' a lot of guys, including myself. She left our school and rumors had it she became a 'born-again' christian. I remember everyone's reaction, including mine. We all thought she was crazy, because we knew no different.

As Krispy hinted with his analogy, children should be equiped and prepared for battle in the world, before we send them out in it. Lately, I have been thinking a lot about this, because I will be getting married in less that three months and will hopefully be working on a family within the near future.

Sending our children out to 'shine' in high school seems to be like putting your unfinished ship into a pond or lake, rather than the ocean fully ready for battle. Public high school students, in themselves, may not be 'vicous wolves', but together in a group of two or more there is a good chance of a wolf pack.

A wolf pack in a small setting can do a lot of damage over a three year period. They may not attach right away or all at once, but, bit by bit, bite by bite, they will sink some ships. And to be a bright shining light in a public high school, does not seem possible with the schools I have experienced.

The point of the thread is to find out if public school is better to educate children than christian school. I feel it has been determined that there may not be much differences in the two. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

As for homeschooling, two days ago I would not have ever considered it, not because I truly felt it was horrible, rather because I knew nothing about that style of teaching. We are given tools by God to help build up our children, so rather than passing them off to someone else to construct, I believe, that any parent with the ability (some circumstances restrict this option) to homeschool would without a doubt insulate, not isolate, a young adult/child to not only be ready for "LIFE" but also be ready for battle.

I have friends in the military (yes, some of the same high school friends that were sinning as bad as me and were just as lost), but thank God the military trains them 'at home' before sending them to Afghanistan or Iraq, especially with the weapons they get to use (God...the things we would do and now they are protecting us...oh dear). They definately need instruction, discipline, and training away from the 'world', so that they are prepared for the 'world'.

We are Christian soldiers (although some people seem to be on leave or have retired or are still trying to get through bootcamp or AWAL... I guess) and we must be prepared. Trying to learn how to use a gun in the middle of battle will get you killed, just like shining your light in a pond. You will get wet and you will be distinguish if you are not careful.

Chris, remember that I believe you are an exception and life is full of them, however, we are talking about choice. Knowing what I know about the world, good and bad, I believe my tune would definately change (not might change) when I have children. Influences play an enormous part in life. If you are surrounded by lost sheep or vicious wolves and you yourself are not acting as the true shepherd, then chances are you will be influenced to some degree.

Most people on this thread, I believe, are just trying to minimize those influences, not block them completely, because that is impossible.

Anyway, God does not care about any specific education. It does not take grades or intelligence to receive Jesus, it takes humility and faith in something bigger than yourself. Public schools do not teach children to be humble or faithful. They teach competition, pride and survival of the fittest.

I am in Korea, where I have never in my life seen more ungodly children who are more concerned about grades than they are about God. Korea has one of the highest suicide rates in the world, because they are selfish and focused on what the government tells them, rather than what the heart screams to them.

Each new class I teach, I ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ask who goes to church (I try to be subtle, but I always get my answers), or who is a Christian. ALWAYS one or two little hands hesitantly rise no higher than their shoulders. Is this because they are Korean? I think not. It is hard to express your belief or faith when you are surrounded by the enemy, especially when your ship is not fully ready and still has some holes or final work to be completed.

I hope and pray that my children want nothing and need only Jesus. I also hope they learn this essential truth from an early age, so that they do not stuggle with belief and faith, as I did. Learning from the world will hold children back in ways that a parent cannot reprogram after a conversation over dinner or a late night snack.

God Bless those that shine,
BrianMira

P.S. Keep shining your light, Chris.