Christian Education and Character Formation: A Biblical Perspective on Faith Growth
Labels: Christian Education, Character Education, Faith Development, Education and Character, Biblical Education, Moral Development
Chapter I: Background of the Study
Education is not merely a process of transferring knowledge but a holistic endeavor aimed at shaping human character, values, and worldview. In contemporary society, education often emphasizes cognitive achievement, technological competence, and measurable outcomes, while neglecting moral and spiritual formation. This imbalance has contributed to a growing concern regarding ethical decline, identity confusion, and weakened character among young people.
Christian Religious Education, particularly Biblical Education, offers a distinctive approach by integrating faith, character, and learning into a unified educational vision. The Bible presents education as a formative journey that nurtures wisdom, obedience, and moral integrity. Proverbs 1:7 states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, indicating that spiritual orientation is foundational to authentic learning.
In the context of Christian education, faith growth is not limited to doctrinal understanding but includes the transformation of attitudes, behaviors, and character. Biblical narratives consistently portray education as relational and transformational, shaping individuals to live responsibly before God and society.
However, many educational practices today treat character education as a supplementary program rather than an integral framework. As a result, students may excel academically but lack ethical discernment and spiritual maturity. This condition highlights the urgent need to reposition Biblical Education as the foundation for holistic faith growth and character development.
Chapter II: Novelty and Theoretical Contribution
The novelty of this study lies in its integrative framework that positions Biblical Education not merely as religious instruction but as a character-forming educational paradigm. Unlike conventional approaches that separate cognitive learning from moral development, this model emphasizes that character formation is inseparable from faith-based education.
Most existing studies on character education focus on secular moral values such as responsibility, respect, and citizenship. While valuable, these approaches often lack a transcendent foundation. This study introduces a biblical-theological perspective, asserting that authentic character formation is rooted in a living relationship with God and shaped through Scripture, community, and spiritual practice.
Another significant contribution is the reconceptualization of faith growth as an educational outcome. Faith development is often discussed in theological or pastoral contexts but rarely integrated into educational theory. This study bridges theology and pedagogy by framing faith growth as an intentional and assessable dimension of Christian education.
By integrating biblical theology, educational philosophy, and character education theory, this study offers a contextual and holistic model that responds to contemporary educational challenges while remaining faithful to Christian convictions.
Chapter III: Theoretical Gap and Research Focus
A critical theoretical gap exists between Christian theology and modern educational practice. Although Christian theology strongly emphasizes moral transformation and character formation, many Christian educational institutions still rely on secular pedagogical models that prioritize academic performance over spiritual and ethical development.
Additionally, much of the literature on character education lacks explicit theological grounding, resulting in fragmented moral frameworks. Conversely, theological discussions on faith growth often overlook practical pedagogical strategies applicable within formal education systems.
This gap reveals the need for an integrated educational approach that unites Biblical Education, character formation, and pedagogical practice. The central focus of this study is to explore how Biblical Education can effectively foster faith growth and character development within Christian learning environments.
By addressing this gap, the study aims to provide a conceptual foundation for Christian educators to design learning experiences that cultivate intellectual competence, moral integrity, and spiritual maturity. Education, therefore, is affirmed not only as preparation for professional life but as a formative process shaping individuals of character and faith.
Keywords: Christian Education, Character Formation, Biblical Education, Faith Growth, Education and Character