“One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” – Matthew 19:13-14
“But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.” – Matthew 18:6
Jesus showed a special love for these little ones throughout his time on earth. When the disciples, in their haste to declare their importance, tried to keep children from getting too close to Jesus, He rebuked them strongly. The disciples had been arguing concerning who would be the greatest in the coming Kingdom. Jesus, however, provided a stark contrast when He compared the simple faith of children to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Jesus also spoke a firm warning to anyone who teaches or leads children. Parents are the ultimate responsible party for the education of their children. They often partner with others such as the local school district, private tutors, or non-governmental schools, like Legacy. Regardless, whoever teaches children must be careful not to lead them into sin by distorting truth. We, as teachers AND parents, are responsible for nurturing the faith of our children and accountable to God for doing it well.
So our 6th principle of Christian education states:
The education of children and youth must not hinder the spiritual and moral development of the next generation.
We must be intentional to educate in a way that leads the next generation to Jesus and to the hope He provides through His work on the cross and the power of His resurrection. The alternative was likened to being anchored at the bottom of the ocean with a millstone tied to our necks. Stark words from our Lord and Savior indicating the stark level of accountability for us all.
Kevin Mosley is in his first year as Associate Head of School at Legacy Christian Academy in Frisco, Texas, having served the last 9 years as Upper School Principal. An innovative academic leader of 25 years, his record includes managing top-performing teams to cultivate student leaders and promote successful preparation for college and beyond. He is focused on engaging with students and educators in Christian schools and is committed to providing Christ-centered leadership through collaboration and transformational vision.
Legacy Christian Academy is Frisco's preeminent Pre-K through 12 Christian school committed to educating students in a college preparatory environment balanced in academics, athletics, and fine arts–all within the context of a biblical worldview. For more information on Legacy, visit our admissions page.