Public school and the Christian parent

[Aquila]

I've come to believe that home schooling is the best way to go. A Christian school comes in second. A private or charter school comes in third. And lastly, a public school.

I believe that sending your children to the public school system presents very real challenges. But these are not challenges that cannot be overcome. If your children are intelligent, born again, and have proper godly role models at home, that's well over half the battle. But if they are stupid, blind followers, unspiritual, and prone to rebellion, they're toast (but such kids are typically going to be what they are in any setting). As I said, the public school system will present challenges. Sometimes, these can be converted into advantageous situations. These challenges can be responded to in a Christian manner, helping to prepare your child for the real world, if approached correctly. Most kids who are home schooled, or attend Christian school, don't really have their faith seriously tested. I've seen many of them graduate and get washed out into the world almost over night. So, there is no formula that promises that your kids will remain faithful to the Lord.

It's largely based on... you. Their parent. Their role model. Do they know that you are a godly, loving, compassionate, praying, spiritual, mother or father? Do you exemplify a spiritual loyalty to God and His ways? Is the faith of your home a sincere faith of loving devotion? Or, are you angry, bitter, critical, judgmental, uncompassionate, hard, and legalistic? Remember, as they grow they will form their own relationship with Jesus. However, until that takes form, you are the only representation of Jesus that they have. Seek to live as a branch of the true vine, a living extension of Jesus. Build in your children a loving trust that reflects your loving trust and devotion towards Jesus.

And while challenges in the public school system do indeed exist. By no means will someone lose their soul for sending their child to public schools. And attending a public school doesn't mean your child will be certainly lost either.