Truth

I was recently asked by a student in class if I ever question my faith. I responded with, “do you mean this week?” Although I assured him that I no longer question the existence of God, we spent the lesson having a hearty discussion about our ability as Christians to constantly ask questions and delve deep into what we actually think and believe. I do so love that about the Christian faith. When you see your beliefs as Truth, it allows you the freedom to ask questions. Truth always stands up under scrutiny.

With the senior classes in Biblical Studies this year, we have studied ‘Hermeneutics’ and ‘Exegesis’, while finding ways to give depth of understanding to biblical study using historical context and interpretation before we apply what we’ve read to our own time, place and culture. We’ve also studied ‘Ethics’ and how a biblical worldview fits into our decision-making processes. In Year 11 classes, we’ve looked at some of the big questions found in Genesis, from origins and human value, to suffering and justice. This has led us into looking at ‘Law and Grace’ and how we live out our faith under a new covenant. Our next step will be looking at Church History and how Christians have lived this faith out from the foundations of the early church right up until the Reformation.

Wider Learning has enabled Jared Grant to start up an opt-in group looking specifically at ‘Apologetics’. Students are learning wise ways to give an answer for the faith they believe in. They learn, role-play scenarios, and are hoping to have some conversations with locals in the community about the beliefs they hold.

In this post-modern era, with its bias toward relativity, we are blessed to be able to teach openly about the Truth we believe. In this country and this school, we have the freedom to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and talk freely about scripture and the Christian faith. Long may it continue.

Ben Sharplin
TIC Biblical Studies & Commerce Teacher