From the Pastor’s Desk: Luther on Education: Part 1 of 2
The Reformation of the Church in the sixteenth century also involved a reformation of education. In 1524, Martin Luther wrote To the Councilmen of All Cities in Germany That They Establish and Maintain Christian Schools, and in 1530 he wrote A Sermon on Keeping Children in School. As we begin our summer months away from the classroom, it is worthwhile to consider several of Luther’s observations that continue to challenge and encourage us in our understanding of education.
The Problem They Were Facing
“First of all, we are today experiencing in all the German lands how schools are everywhere being left to go to wrack and ruin.” (AE 45:348)
Luther lived during a time of increasing economic prosperity. As wealth increased, many parents shifted their priorities toward helping their children earn money rather than receive a thorough liberal arts education. At the same time, many had become disillusioned with educational systems connected to the medieval Church, such as monasteries.
With the Bible now available in German, some concluded that studying foreign languages was unnecessary. Others, particularly among the Radical Reformers, emphasized direct spiritual experience over disciplined study. Luther confronted a widespread disdain for education.
We might ask whether similar attitudes exist today. Are STEM programs and career preparation sometimes elevated at the expense of reading, writing, history, and language? Has frustration with progressive or secular trends in education tempted some to reject education altogether rather than seek its reform? Certainly, education systems have weaknesses that deserve thoughtful discussion. Yet Luther reminds us that the proper response is not to despise education, but to strengthen and reform it for the good of society.
The Solution: Luther Advocated Mandatory Public Education
“But I hold that it is the duty of the temporal authority to compel its subjects to keep their children in school… For here there is a worse war on, a war with the very devil…” (AE 46:257)
Luther believed that civil authorities have a responsibility to ensure that children receive a proper education. Just as governments require citizens to defend their country in times of war, they should also require education because an even greater battle is taking place. This is a spiritual battle against the devil, who seeks to weaken society by leaving people ignorant and easily led astray.
Luther recognized that a well-educated population benefits both Church and society. Education is not merely a private concern. It is a public good worthy of support and investment.
The Worthy Cost of Educating Children
“We ought properly to give a hundred gulden to the cause of training one boy for every gulden we would give to fight the Turk…” (AE 45:350)
Luther argued that if governments willingly spend enormous sums on roads, bridges, fortifications, and defense, they should be even more willing to invest in educating the next generation. Competent teachers, he insisted, are among society’s greatest blessings and should be generously supported. Can I get an “Amen?”
Good Teachers and the Purpose of Public Education
“We have today the finest and most learned group of men… who could also render real service if only we would make use of them as instructors of the young people.” (AE 45:351)
“Necessity compels us, therefore, to engage public school teachers for the children.” (AE 45:351)
Luther presents three reasons why public education is necessary. First, some parents simply fail to educate their children. He compares such parents to ostriches, which were thought to lay eggs but neglect to care for them.
Second, many parents desire to educate their children but lack the knowledge or training to do so effectively. Third, even capable parents often lack sufficient time because of the many responsibilities involved in caring for their households and fulfilling their daily vocations.
Education in the Parish and the Home
Within our own congregation, we have families who utilize public schools, parochial schools, and homeschooling. Each approach offers significant blessings, and each also has limitations. Families who choose public education must ensure that their homes remain places where God’s Word is read, discussed, and lived daily.
Homeschooling families often benefit from outside resources because no parent is equally equipped to teach every subject. Our own children have benefited from online instruction, public transportation, and participation in public school athletic programs.
Excellence in educating our children, in both body and soul, is essential so they may remain steadfast in the faith and become faithful members of the Church, the home, and society.
Even parochial schools have their own challenges. They may pursue academic excellence and rigorous college preparation while unintentionally overlooking that true Christian success includes faithful vocations as husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, and devoted members of Christ’s Church.
In many ways, the most important classroom remains the Christian home, especially around the family table, where God’s Word is taught and lived.
Looking Ahead
Next month we will continue examining Luther’s advocacy for education, including his support for educating girls, a remarkably uncommon position in his day, and why the liberal arts continue to matter for Christians today.
Be well this summer. Keep your children’s minds active, and your own as well. Remember that God loves your family, and come often to receive the gifts He freely gives through His Word and Sacraments.
In Christ,
