224
Child Guidance
the education gained in carrying out these principles. But how widely
different is much of the education now given! From the child’s earliest
years it is an appeal to emulation and rivalry; it fosters selfishness, the
root of all evil
The Model Was Given in Eden—The system of education in-
stituted at the beginning of the world was to be a model for man
throughout all aftertime. As an illustration of its principles a model
school was established in Eden, the home of our first parents. The
Garden of Eden was the schoolroom, nature was the lesson book, the
Creator Himself was the instructor
Exemplified in the Master Teacher—In the training of His dis-
ciples the Saviour followed the system of education established at the
beginning. The Twelve first chosen, with a few others who through
ministry to their needs were from time to time connected with them,
formed the family of Jesus. They were with Him in the house, at
the table, in the closet, in the field. They accompanied Him on His
journeys, shared His trials and hardships, and, as much as in them was,
entered into His work.
[295]
Sometimes He taught them as they sat together on the mountain-
side, sometimes beside the sea, or from the fisherman’s boat, some-
times as they walked by the way. Whenever He spoke to the multitude,
the disciples formed the inner circle. They pressed close beside Him,
that they might lose nothing of His instruction. They were attentive
listeners, eager to understand the truths they were to teach in all lands
and to all ages
True Education Is Both Practical and Literary—In childhood
and youth practical and literary training should be combined, and the
mind stored with knowledge....
Children should be taught to have a part in domestic duties. They
should be instructed how to help father and mother in the little things
that they can do. Their minds should be trained to think, their memories
taxed to remember their appointed work; and in the training to habits
of usefulness in the home, they are being educated in doing practical
duties appropriate to their age
4
Education, 225, 226
.
5
Education, 20
.
6
Education, 84, 85
.
7
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 368, 369
.