An Authentic Christian School

 

Many of our students in grades 7-12 go through a life changing experience during our annual student revival (better known as “180 Week”). Last week, the “180 Week” services were lead by Brandon Barnard, Youth Pastor at Fellowship Bible Church, and The Jeff Capps Band from Dallas, Texas.  What an uplifting way to start a day!  Each morning, I could hardly wait to attend the service.   

Last Wednesday, Brandon spoke on developing an authentic relationship with Christ.  While driving back to my office, the word authentic was weighing heavily on my mind, but I didn’t make a connection with why it was so compelling.   I returned to my office and there it was – what appeared to be an old, yellowed brochure our admission’s director (who happens also to be my wife) had found a few days ago while cleaning out some files.  In the busyness of the day, I had laid it aside.  The brochure, entitled What Is an Authentic Christian School?, was actually written in 1996 by Dr. Carl Herbster, President of the American Association of Christian Schools.

This time, the title intrigued me. The first few sentences read, “The sign over the front entrance of a Christian school does not necessarily serve as proof of a Christian school inside.  Neither does the American nor Christian flag hanging in the corner or a Scripture verse displayed on the classroom wall.  It is impossible to identify an authentic Christian school solely from its appearance.”  So, I asked myself, “Is Arkansas Baptist an authentic Christian school?” Honestly, I am convinced we are, and I’ll tell you why:

• Every single decision that is made about the operation of the school is backed by Scripture.
• The Bible is taught each day and is a major part of the curriculum.
• The Bible is integrated within all subject matter.
• The Bible is central to guiding students in developing character, attitudes, and values.
• All classes are taught by Christian teachers who are willing to share their faith with the students.
• Students not only develop their faith, but actually put it into action daily.
• Students and teachers have the freedom to pray with and for each other at any time.
• Servanthood is gained through numerous mission opportunities.
• Academic mediocrity is unacceptable.
• Our students learn in a disciplined atmosphere.
• We value not only the students, but parents, too.

At a time when some Christians have a hard time agreeing on what it means to be a “Christian”, our school is known for its integrity and pursuit of truth in order to honor and please God.   Our staff and faculty are caring, genuine, real and trustworthy.   Arkansas Baptist is an authentic Christian school.