LEAven Blog

Excuse my joining the less-than-honorable P. Pilate on the search for truth. He was an easy mark since most people know his antagonistic utterance even if they have no idea of its resolution (John 18:38). Suspicions about my curiosity may be justified, but I wanted to know because truth is what Lutheran Christian schools, academies, learning centers, or whatever your place of ministry teach.

Forgive me for asking, but your school teaches the truth about the Triune God, right? (If not, take the title off your sign; it’s false advertising. But perhaps, like Pilate, your staff and stakeholders might want some clarification. Several advisors recommended that I talk with a counselor since they suspected both my competency and my reasoning for asking such a complex question. Their counsel runs counter to what godly counselors counsel. They say that truth is whatever you want it to be. You have your truth, and I have mine? Both have equal credibility? Sounds hokey to me.

My Counselor produced a book with reliable information, I consulted what the Holy Spirit has to say. Several truths emerged.

First, Truth in its first dimension is that Jesus Christ claims the singular title. He says (and He never lies) that He not only is Truth but that He is the only Truth and way to heaven (John 14:6). So, if your students learn nothing else, they need to know this exclusivity. Remind yourself that you teach the Truth because you love your students (2 Tim. 2:24–26). You truthfully do, right?

Second, Truth is not only what you speak. It’s what you think and do (2 Tim.2:15 and 1 John 3:18). The old adage “Actions speak louder than words” is true (Mark Twain). And this truth expands the Truth beyond teaching it only in religion class. If you say that you integrate the Word in your lessons, be sure to do it. The process takes time—of which you don’t have a lot and consultations with the Counselor. Feel free to use mine.

Third, your inclination to teach Truth goes beyond your students. What do you say about your school? Lutheran schools are great places, but be careful that your compliments don’t make Leviticus Lutheran School sound like Utopia Lutheran School. You don’t need to exaggerate when you already teach the single most important thing the students will ever need to know. Avoid badmouthing too. Remember whose place it is (Prov. 12:22).

Fourth, fight. Satan is sinister, and his schemes are deceptively attractive, terribly destructive, or both. Find out what your public schools are teaching—see if they will loan you their curriculum guide so you can learn and counter the lies they teach (and commend their truths!) (Eph. 6:10–20).

Fifth, explore with your class the characteristics and signs of one raised with biblical truths (Phil. 4:8) and 3:12–17).

Bonus tip: Load a topical Bible app on your computer to always have your Counselor’s wisdom handy.

Truth be told, you labor in a God-guided laboratory for Christian learning. Pray for success in leading and strengthening those you serve.