How Can our Teachers Retain their Christian Identity in a Secular World?

Abstract

In this essay, Siegbert W. Becker addresses the challenge Christian educators face in maintaining their spiritual identity amid growing secularism in society and the church. He critiques the influence of secular philosophies—particularly evolution, pragmatism, and relativism—on education and theology, warning that these ideologies erode biblical morality and faith. Becker emphasizes that Christian teachers must remain rooted in Word and Sacrament, recognizing their divine calling as ministers of the Gospel. He urges teachers to prioritize spiritual formation over worldly relevance, resisting the temptation to conform to secular values. The essay defends the “other-worldly” nature of Christianity, affirming that true Christian education seeks to build the kingdom of God, not merely produce socially responsible citizens. Becker concludes that Christian teachers, as gifts from Christ to the Church, must stand firm against secularism and serve as spiritual guardians in a morally declining culture. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).