SOUTHERN AFRICA INDIAN OCEAN DIVISION

EDUCATION SABBATH

22 March, 2025

Prepared by Dr. F. Njini (SID Education Director)

Sermon Title: Our Firm Foundation

Introduction:
Dear brothers and sisters, today we gather to reflect on the foundational pillar of
Adventist education – the Word of God. In a world filled with distractions and
uncertainties, we turn to the unchanging and everlasting Word of God as the
cornerstone of life changing teaching and learning. We will explore the dangers
imbedded in a godless education system and then discuss the centrality of the Bible
in Adventist Education.

Key Bible Text: “Behold, God is exalted in His power; who is a teacher like Him?”
(Job 36:22, ESV)

Contextual Background of Text

This verse is part of Elihu’s speech in the book of Job. Elihu was one of Job’s friends
who spoke after Job’s other three friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar). His speech is
different from theirs in that he focuses more on God’s greatness, justice, and wisdom,
rather than simply accusing Job of sin. Elihu presents God as a teacher of
righteousness as exemplified in the experience of Job. He is not only a God who is all-
powerful and highly exalted, but also a loving God who is willing to identify with His
children and teach them godly wisdom and knowledge even through difficult situations.
Elihu’s assertation resonates with what God says about himself as a teacher of
righteousness;

Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel
you with my loving eye on you." This verse highlights God's role as a personal teacher
who gives instruction and guidance.

Isaiah 48:17 "This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I
am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the
way you should go.’" God teaches us what is best for us and directs us in the right
path.

Deuteronomy 32:2 "Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like
showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants." God’s teaching is life-
giving and nourishing, like rain on plants.
Daniel 1: 17 “As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all
literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” We
need to note that God is able to bless His children to attain outstanding academic
excellence. Upon sitting for the final examinations in the university of Babylon, the
four Hebrew boys were found to be ten times brighter than the rest of the students
(Daniel 1: 20) because they were taught by the Lord. Our children and students
need to know that wisdom and knowledge comes from the Lord.

Just like Elihu, David the psalmist also knew that there is no teacher like the Lord;
“Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth
and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.”
Psalm 25:4-5

No wonder, Christ, the Second Person of the Godhead was known as Rabbi Tulmidin
‘the Master Teacher’. Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, conceded that Jesus of
Nazareth was “a teacher” (John 3:2). A wealthy young ruler approached the Lord
asking, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” (Matthew
19:16). Martha said, “the Teacher is here” (John 11:25). The disciples called Him,
“Teacher,” and Jesus, replied, “You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for
so I am.” (John 13:13, NASB). It was this title by which Jesus was known among the
Jewish leaders in Jerusalem. People constantly referred to him as “Teacher,”
(Matthew 8:19; 12:38; 19:16; 26:18; Mark 4:38). Even Jesus’ enemies addressed him
as “Teacher” (Matthew 22:16, 24). Thus the Gospels record that He was recognized
as a Master Teacher by friend and foe.

In the same vein, Ellen White posits that “The world has had its great teachers, men
of giant intellect and extensive research, men whose utterances have stimulated
thought and opened to view vast fields of knowledge; and these men have been
honored as guides and benefactors of their race; but there is One who stands higher
than they.” (Education,13). In The Acts of the Apostles, p. 17, Ellen G White writes,
“For three years and a half the disciples were under the instruction of the greatest
Teacher the world has ever known. By personal contact and association, Christ trained
them for His service.” Christ’s teaching was informative, transformative, buttressed by
Old Testament evidence, well-illustrated, accompanied by divine power, original, and
uniquely authoritative (Matthew 7:28). When military officers were sent by the high
priest to arrest him, they returned to their superiors empty-handed, exclaiming: “Never
a man spoke like him” (John 7:46).

This could be the reason why, Isaiah prophesied the blessings that follow when God’s
people allow Him to occupy the central position in their education system; Isaiah 54:13
“All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great will be the peace of your
children.” God teaches through His Word, which is useful for instruction - 2Timothy
3:16 (NIV)"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking,
correcting and training in righteousness...”
Therefore, the greatest tragedy in education is the deliberate exclusion of God and His
Word from the teaching and learning experiences. The enemy of our souls has over
the years systematically captured education systems of the world through vain
philosophies. True religion of the Bible is considered as archaic and irrelevant to the
so called sophistries of academia. In the book Education -Ellen White mentions the
insidious danger of secular education. Insidious comes from the Latin word ‘insidier’
which means to ambush or something that proceeds in a gradual, subtle way to cause
harm just like the movement of a python towards its prey. Thus, the real danger with
secular education is not necessarily what it teaches but what it doesn’t teach, that is
the Word of God.

The apostle Paul warns us in Colossians 2:8 – "See to it that no one takes you captive
through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition rather
than on Christ." Indeed several philosophers have risen down through the ages to cast
aspersions and advocate for the removal of the Bible from schools. Karl Marx (1818–
1883) argued that education should be purely secular and free from religious influence.
John Dewey (1859-1952) promoted secular education based on science, reason, and
experience rather than biblical teachings. Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)
vehemently argued that education should reject religious morality and focus on self-
determination and willpower. Bertrand Russell (1872–1970)’s ideas contributed to the
removal of religious education in many Western schools. Richard Dawkins (b. 1941-)
continues to teach that religion is harmful to children and that biblical teachings should
not be included in education. In his writings, John Stuart Mill (1806–1873) stressed
that education should be neutral and not influenced by what he called ‘religious
doctrines.’ In support of this position, Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) believed that
education should focus on psychology and science, not religious teachings. The
impact of these worldly philosophies is what defines the curriculum of secular
education systems.

When an education system removes the Bible and its teachings, it risks creating a
foundation that lacks absolute truth, moral guidance, and a proper understanding of
human purpose. Martin Luther once wisely counselled, ‘I advise no one to place his
child where the Scriptures do not reign paramount. Every institution in which men are
not increasingly occupied with the Word of God must become corrupt ... I am much
afraid that schools will prove to be the great gates of Hell unless they diligently labour
in explaining the Holy Scriptures, engraving them on the hearts of youth,’ “The
Christian in Society (Luther’s Works, Vol. 44).” In summary, the removal or neglect of
the Word of God in institutions of learning causes;

1. Loss of Absolute Truth

Without the Bible, education often promotes relative truth, where morality and ethics
become subjective. This leads to confusion about right and wrong because there is no
unchanging moral standard.
John 17:17 – "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth."

• When the Bible is removed, students are taught that truth is fluid and personal,
rather than objective and rooted in God's Word.
• This can lead to moral relativism, where people decide their own “truth,”
resulting in chaos and a lack of accountability.

2. Decline in Moral Values

Without biblical moral instruction, ethics are often based on human reasoning alone,
which can be flawed and self-centred.

Proverbs 14:12 – "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to
death."

• Many modern education systems teach secular ethics, but without God,
morality becomes subjective.
• When the fear of God is removed, sinful behaviors such as dishonesty,
corruption, greed, and immorality become normalized.
• History shows that societies that abandon biblical moral values often
experience moral and social decay.

3. Lack of Purpose and Identity

Godless education promotes the idea that humans are just highly evolved animals,
rather than created in God's image with a divine purpose.

Genesis 1:27 – "So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He
created them; male and female He created them."

• When students are not taught that they are made in God's image, they often
struggle with self-worth, identity, and purpose.
• Many educational institutions teach that life has no ultimate purpose beyond
personal happiness, success, or material gain.
• This can lead to depression, anxiety, and hopelessness as people search for
meaning outside of God.

4. Rejection of God’s Wisdom

The Bible teaches that true wisdom comes from God, not just from human knowledge.
An education system that removes the Bible promotes intellectual pride while
neglecting the most important source of wisdom.

Proverbs 9:10 – "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of
the Holy One is understanding."
 • Secular education often idolizes human intelligence and reasoning while
rejecting divine wisdom.
• This leads to atheism, humanism, and self-sufficiency, where people trust in
their own knowledge rather than in God.
• Many intellectuals deny God’s existence not because of evidence, but because
of pride (Romans 1:21-22).

5. Increased Sin and Lawlessness

When the Bible is removed from education, students are not taught God’s standards
of righteousness. Instead, sin is often rationalized or even celebrated.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 warns that in the last days, people will become:
"Lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their
parents, ungrateful, unholy..."

• Without the Bible, youth are more likely to engage in immorality, rebellion, and
disobedience.
• Many modern educational systems promote secular ideologies that contradict
God's Word, such as atheism, evolution, and moral relativism.
• When people reject God's law, society becomes more lawless and corrupt
(Romans 1:28-32).

A society that removes the Bible from education loses its moral compass, rejects God's
wisdom, and promotes self-centred thinking. Education is important, but without
biblical truth, it can lead to pride, confusion, and destruction.

This is the reason why parents need to face the issue of Christian education honestly
before God and see it not merely as an option proposed to us but an obligation laid on
us by God. The psalmist highlights parental obligation to ensure that their faith is
passed on to their children; “That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth;
that our daughters may be as cornerstones, polished after the similitude of a palace.”
Psalm 144:12.

In response to some who were advocating for the removal of religious teaching in
Adventist schools, Ellen G White responded, “If morality and religion are to live in a
school, it must be through a knowledge of God’s Word. Some may argue that if
religious teaching is to be made prominent, our schools will become unpopular; that
those who are not of our faith will not patronize our schools . . . Very well, then let them
go to other schools, where they will find a system of education that suits their taste.
Our schools were established, not merely to teach the sciences, but for the purpose
of giving instruction in the great principles of God’s word and in the practical duties of
everyday life. This is the education so much needed at the present time.” CT 88.
Ellen G White continues to give counsel, “If a worldly influence is to bear sway in our
school, then sell it out to worldlings, and let them take the entire control; and those
who have invested their means in that institution will establish another school, to be
conducted, not upon the plan of popular schools nor according to the desires of
principal and teachers, but upon the plan which God has specified.” CT 88.3

Consequently, the centrality of the Bible in Adventist Education cannot be over

emphasized. The essence of Adventist education is to instill the biblical worldview in
the minds of the students. The whole teaching and learning experience is approached
from a biblical perspective. The aim is to ensure that students under the influence of
Christian teachers and by the time they leave school will have internalized biblical
values and a view of knowledge, life, and destiny that is Christ- centered, service-
oriented, and kingdom-directed. This overarching aim is derived from the pen of
inspiration; “True education is more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It
means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole
being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonious
development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the
student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the
world to come.” Education, p.13. Thus, we are not educated solely so that we may
obtain a good career, it is the preparation for eternal life.

In a world that is often characterized by moral relativism and spiritual confusion, the
Bible serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path of righteousness and leading
us towards God’s purposes for our lives. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, "Your word is a
lamp to my feet and a light to my path." As Adventist educators and parents, we have
the privilege and responsibility to guide our students along the path of truth and
righteousness found in God’s Word.

The Bible is not just a book; it is the living, breathing Word of God. It is through the
Scriptures that we gain wisdom, discernment, and guidance in all aspects of our lives.
In Proverbs 2:6, we are reminded that "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth
come knowledge and understanding." As Adventist educators and parents, it is our
duty to instil in our students a love for God's Word and a thirst for spiritual growth. By
integrating the principles of Scripture into every aspect of learning, we equip our
students with a holistic worldview that is grounded in God's eternal truths.

Again, the Bible is not merely a collection of words; it is the living, powerful Word of
God that has the ability to transform hearts and minds. Hebrews 4:12 declares, "For
the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to
the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts
and intentions of the heart."
The pen of inspiration gives further exhortation and guidance regarding the centrality
of the Word of God in true education;

“Above all other books, the Word of God must be our study, the great Text-book, the
basis of all education; and our children are to be educated in the truths found therein,
irrespective of previous habits and customs. In doing this, teachers and students will
find the hidden treasure in the daily life.” 6T p. 131-132

We are to make the Word of God the basis of our instruction. Letter 64, 1909

There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than a study of the Bible.
No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigour to the faculties, as
the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's Word were studied as it should be,
men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, that is rarely seen in these
times. CPTS 460: 1

The Bible is the great agent in the hands of its Author to strengthen the intellect. FE
111

There is nothing more calculated to energize the mind, and strengthen the intellect,
than the study of the word FE 126

Let teachers be employed who will give a thorough education in the common
branches, the Bible being made the foundation and the life of all study. Counsels on
Education, p. 184

The Bible is the foundation of all true education - Education, p. 17

Conclusion:
As we reflect on the centrality of the Bible in Adventist education, let us remember the
words of Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you
shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all
that is written in it." May we continue to uphold the Word of God as the cornerstone of
our educational mission, guiding and shaping the hearts and minds of future
generations for the glory of God.

Appeal

I call upon all parents not just to invest for your children but to invest in your children.
The greatest investment you can give them is Adventist education. An education
system which prepares them for Kingdom service in this world and the world to come.
An education system which compliments what you are teaching at home and what
your children learn in church. Schools where your children will be introduced to Christ
the master teacher and redeemer!
Again it is your privilege to partner with Christ in preparing young people in our
institutions for usefulness in this world and the world to come.

Pray for our institutions of learning!

Be an advocate of Adventist Education!

Support our schools in whatever means the Lord has blessed you!

Participate in the building and establishment of more Adventist Schools!