Basic HTML Version
The Primal Object of Education
By a misconception of the true nature and object of education,
many have been led into serious and even fatal errors. Such a mistake
is made when the regulation of the heart or the establishment of
principles is neglected in the effort to secure intellectual culture, or
when eternal interests are overlooked in the eager desire for temporal
advantage.
To make the possession of worldly honor or riches our ruling
motive is unworthy of one who has been redeemed by the blood of
Christ. It should rather be our aim to gain knowledge and wisdom
that we may become better Christians, and be prepared for greater
usefulness, rendering more faithful service to our Creator, and by
our example and influence leading others also to glorify God. Here
is something real, something tangible—not only words, but deeds.
Not only the affections of the heart, but the service of the life, must
be devoted to our Maker.
The One Perfect Pattern
To bring man back into harmony with God, so to elevate and
ennoble his moral nature that he may again reflect the image of the
Creator, is the great purpose of all the education and discipline of
life. So important was this work that the Saviour left the courts of
heaven and came in person to this earth, that He might teach men
how to obtain a fitness for the higher life. For thirty years He dwelt
as a man among men, passed through the experiences of human
life as a child, a youth, a man; He endured the severest trials that
[50]
He might present a living illustration of the truths He taught. For
three years as a teacher sent from God He instructed the children of
men; then, leaving the work to chosen colaborers, He ascended to
heaven. But His interest in it has not abated. From the courts above
He watches with the deepest solicitude the progress of the cause for
which He gave His life.
44