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School is back in session. It should be noted that Jesus increased in four areas “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52): 

1) Wisdom – The CWSB Bible dictionary defines this term, “In a higher sense, wisdom, deep knowledge, natural and moral insight, learning, science, implying cultivation of mind and enlightened understanding.” 

2) Physical growth – Education should involve the growth toward maturity. A part of that is physical growth. That is why physical exercise is significant. Healthy living helps physical growth. Paul told the young preacher Timothy that there is some profit in bodily exercise (1 Timothy 4:8).

3) Spiritual growth – 1 Timothy 4:8 reads in full, “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” The wise man Solomon stated, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Knowledge…” (Proverbs 3:7). Sadly, because of the secularization of our country, those in public schools do not get this very basic beginning of true education. That is an advantage for biblically oriented private schools, and especially home-schooling. That means it is up to parents to make sure that our children have a firm foundation. It has always been the home that is the ultimate source of this foundational teaching. Paul told fathers to bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). 

4) Social growth – One of the biggest drawbacks to school attendance can be how children treat each other. However, the interaction between schoolmates often helps to make friends that last for a lifetime. Homeschoolers can still gain this social growth through co-ops, and, hopefully, through church relations, camps, etc.

May we as parents and grandparents work above all else to build that most important foundation by helping them grow closer to God in the shadow of the cross.  Whether your children are attending public school, private school, or home school, I pray for them a successful year. 

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.