Davidisms: The Difference Between Indoctrination and Education

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

The Bible is clear. Parents should be the primary educators in their children’s lives.

Practically speaking, this means parents must teach children themselves and be aware of what is being taught to their children while in school. Parents must then ensure their kids are receiving an education instead of indoctrination.

What’s the difference?

Education teaches us how to think, while indoctrination teaches us what to think.

Indoctrination means you’re forcing a particular view upon kids instead of giving them a perspective where they can think for themselves and make their own choices. Whereas education means sharing factual information, and allowing children to come to their own understanding and conclusions.

Education is very valuable. Indoctrination is very dangerous.

Parents, fight hard for a sound education for your children. Work so that your kids will have a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

So that we can all live in a nation that upholds life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.