A chimera is a bizarre-looking character found in Greek mythology. The fire-breathing female is composed from the parts of a lion, goat, and serpent. Recently, a religious leader used the term chimera to describe the philosophy of education in his native Sweden. The highly secular country has told all its schools—including Christian ones—that they must teach subjects in a “nonconfessional,” “objective” manner. This leads to a chimera, for it means that the significance Christianity has played in the culture must be dismembered from education—the “head” of the body being replaced by something entirely different.
Daniel experienced the challenges of being educated in a society that didn’t hold to God’s commands (Daniel 1:4). Babylonian brainwashing had been foisted upon them (Daniel 1:5). But “Daniel was determined not to defile himself” with the diet they tried to serve him (Daniel 1:8). His refusal to eat “unacceptable foods” resulted in Daniel and his friends being “healthier” than the other young men, it also revealed his strong commitment to God’s truth.
As we live in a “secular state” and are constantly bombarded by messages and philosophies contrary to God’s wisdom, we can imitate Daniel and his buddies. Here’s what they chose to do:
• Learn, but discern—The young men were diligent in their studies, taking in “every aspect of literature and wisdom” (Daniel 1:17). But they chose God’s wisdom.
• Fearlessly follow God—Daniel spoke the truth to the king—even some hard things about the future of his kingdom (Daniel 2:39-45). The king responded by praising God (Daniel 2:47).
Whether you’re in high school, college, or in the work force, choose to follow Daniel’s plan: Pursue learning, but let God and His Word be your guide (Proverbs 9:10).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Psalm 23:1-6
More:
Read 1 Corinthians 1:25 and 3:19 to see where true wisdom is found.
Next:
What false teachings has the “secular state” been foisting upon you? How can you grow in your understanding of God’s Word so that you can refute the false messages you receive?
winn collier on May 15, 2012 at 3:41 pm
Why is religion uniquely to be taught from a disinterested perspective? We would want that posture from someone teaching philosophy, ethics, medicine, physics, etc.? Humble and willing to hear the other, yes – but neutral and dispassionate, no. I’m actually going to be working on a short reflection on this.
mike wittmer on May 16, 2012 at 2:53 pm
Good points, Tom and Winn. Everyone is religious, in the sense that they serve something as ultimate, even if it’s just themselves. The question we all must answer is not “Will you believe in God?” but “Which God will you believe in?”