A recent topic of discussion at a Bible study I attend was how we, as Christians, can influence culture. One approach is that Christians must separate themselves from secular culture so as to remain pure and distinct (an Amish community might be the starkest example of this). Another approach emphasizes embracing cultural trends but then insisting on a sanitized Christian version (the Christian music industry comes to mind).
The case was made effectively in our discussion, however, that as Christians we should do away with the distinction between Christian and non-Christian culture and instead simply make or be culture, part of it in all of its messiness. This, of course, does not mean that we in any way diminish our Christianity. Rather we unleash it into the free market of ideas where it can be seen for what it is: powerful, even unto salvation! Christ likened it to a lamp that, once lit, no one hides under a bowl. Think then of our contribution to culture being like the illumination from that torch. Though in the darkness, it is quite distinct. It not only reveals; it also transforms! (see also John 1:5b)
When I think of Pinnacle Classical Academy, my hope is not a walled off commune. Nor is it a premier academic institution with only a thin layer of Christian veneer painted over. No, my hope is a place where truth like a fire will be kindled in the hearts and minds of all the students. We must get back to the essence of education that our children might be fully equipped with facts, able to discern, and winsome, persuasive communicators. This is not indoctrination. It is training fit for free men and women made in the image of God with a mandate to be light wherever they are in whatever they are called. (Phil. 2:15)
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