One of my readers asked a great question that cuts right to the heart. “Is “biblical integration” really something we MUST do?” I want to discuss this with you in far more depth than my initial response to her. I think it’s going to take more than one post though so I’ll do this as a series over the next week or so.
Do I really have to do Biblical integration? Man that is a loaded question! First you want to yell, “Yes of course you do!” But then the reality of the buzzword sets in and you groan thinking of how it needs to be reflected in your lesson plans just so. Oh, and we’ve lost our brothers and sisters teaching in public schools simply by asking the question (if you are still here please hang with us just a bit longer!)
For starters, I really dislike the term “Biblical integration” because it has become such a buzzword. It’s divisive and doesn’t accurately describe what we do in our classrooms. (unless you think tacking a verse on to each lesson is Biblical integration) I strongly believe we, as believers working in education, both public and private, need to be working together, supporting one another. We need a better term to describe just how we structure our curriculum to the glory of the kingdom… we all do it no matter where we teach. It’s part of who we are and what we’ve been called to. We need a common language that can bring us together and calling what we do “Biblical integration” just won’t do.
So, as we move forward in our discussion let’s seek to re-define our terms.
How about we start by identifying some common ground? I think we have more than many people realize.
Why do you teach the way you do? What is your desired outcome for your students… What do you hope for them to become?
I’m not sure what the best word is, but you’re right – it shouldn’t be about an extra task in our lesson planning. Integrating truth into our lessons shouldn’t be a chore at all – it should come naturally. God’s truths are universal, and the truths of Scripture are powerful. As Christians, they should be such a part of our lives that they permeate every aspect & come out naturally as we teach (even if we’re in a public school & may not be able to say the truths are from the Bible.)
I think the tough thing is that a lot of Christians aren’t used to thinking BIblically. Maybe it’s because of secular training, a lack of good doctrine at church, or a combination of other factors. But if we start thinking Biblically about every aspect of life, those truths will shine forth in our lessons effortlessly & powerfully.
“I think the tough thing is that a lot of Christians aren’t used to thinking Biblically”
That’s an interesting way of putting it. In my own experience as a student in a years ago far more emphasis was placed on puppeting back the “right” answer than on critical thinking. I’m not sure things have changed much.
“But if we start thinking Biblically about every aspect of life, those truths will shine forth in our lessons effortlessly & powerfully.”
The power of focus!
Great comments Linda.