Cedarville Magazine, Spring 2021

does not speculate. We simply trace the hand of God from Genesis to Revelation, and the evidence is present. Even so, we scrutinize with grace because we are reminded of Paul’s words at the end of 1 Corinthians 1: “Brothers, consider your calling: Not many were wise from a human perspective, not many powerful, not many of noble birth. Instead, God has chosen what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God has chosen what is insignificant and despised in the world —what is viewed as nothing — to bring to nothing what is viewed as something, so that no one may boast in his presence” (vv. 26–29). Some theories offer helpful components, but can’t compare with the Gospel nor should they be compared, for there is nothing to compare. It is like being hit by a drop of dirty water compared to the rushing power of the Pacific Ocean. The Scripture says, “I will destroy the power of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart” (1 Cor. 1:19). Where is the one who is wise? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the debater of this age? We can find them in textbooks, classrooms, and in P–12 and postsecondary classrooms around the world. Theories and philosophies stem from man’s sinful heart — his goals, hurts, disappointments, values, preferences, dispositions, context, and feelings. Compare this to Scripture, which is breathed out by God. So, the process of rejecting, redeeming, and receiving the writings and thoughts of men will always be a task for the believer. This task will show us the folly of men and the wisdom of God. Our calling is to live out what we know is true. Jeremy Kimble, Associate Professor of Theology, reminds us in his lecture “God, Hermeneutics, Theology, and the Academic Disciplines” that our responsibility is to “show how the fall affects our disciplines and how we should do them to bring praise to the greatness of God.” The training we impart is simply a means to share the Gospel, make disciples, and serve image-bearers of all ethnic backgrounds, physical and mental abilities, and socioeconomic status. The Gospel we have is for everybody. Kevin Jones is Dean of the Cedarville University School of Education and Assistant Professor of Education. He earned his Ed.D. in leadership education from Spalding University. Our calling is to live out what we know is true. Cedarville Magazine | 7