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Fundamentals of Christian Education
Jesus continues, expressing His care for His own: “And now I am
no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to Thee.
Holy Father, keep through Thine own name those whom Thou hast
given Me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them
in the world, I kept them in Thy name: those that Thou gavest Me
I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that
the scripture might be fulfilled. And now I come to Thee; and these
things I speak in the world, that they might have My joy fulfilled in
themselves. I have given them Thy word; and the world hath hated
them, because they are not of the world.”
Suppose we catch the spirit that breathed in this prayer that as-
cended to heaven. Christ here shows what methods and force He used
to keep His disciples from worldly practices, maxims, and dispositions:
“I have given them Thy word; and the world hath hated them, because
they are not of the world.” Their actions, their words, their spirit, are
not in harmony with the world, “even as I am not of the world.” And
the Saviour adds, “I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the
world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” The children
and youth should receive an education in the line that Christ has here
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indicated, that they may be separate from the world.
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” The word
of God should be made the great educating power. How shall students
know the truth, except by a close, earnest, persevering study of the
word? Here is the grand stimulus, the hidden force which quickens the
mental and physical powers, and directs the life into right channels.
Here in the word is wisdom, poetry, history, biography, and the most
profound philosophy. Here is a study that quickens the mind into a
vigorous and healthy life, and awakens it to the highest exercise. It is
impossible to study the Bible with a humble, teachable spirit, without
developing and strengthening the intellect. Those who become best
acquainted with the wisdom and purpose of God as revealed in His
word, become men and women of mental strength; and they may
become efficient workers with the great Educator, Jesus Christ.
“As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent
them into the world.” There is a work to be done for the world, and
Christ sends His messengers, who are to be workers together with
Himself. Christ has given His people the words of truth, and all are
called to act a part in making them known to the world.