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Reviewed By Curtis Fink
Introduction
In 1903, Ellen G. White published the influential book “True Education 2024,” which quickly became a staple for parents and teachers alike. Now, over a century later, the North American Division Department of Education has spearheaded the creation of a special edition to cater to the new generation. This adaptation, drawn from White’s original work “Education, meticulously edited to resonate with the modern mindset, ensuring its relevance for contemporary readers. Throughout this volume, scripture quotations primarily stem from the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, aligning with White’s most frequently used translation.
True Education 2024 Practical Realities of Life
The essence of true education lies in preparing individuals to confront the practical realities of life—navigating opportunities, shouldering responsibilities, embracing successes, and overcoming defeats. How one engages with these experiences, whether as a master or a victim of circumstances, hinges significantly on the quality of the education they receive. Unlike many educational treatises rooted in various pedagogical theories, this volume uniquely emanates from a theological principle espoused by the author, which she dubs “the central theme of the Bible”: the redemption plan, aimed at restoring the divine image within the human soul. White often refers to this fundamental concept as the Great Controversy theme in her other writings.
True Education 2024 Author’s Points
White asserts that the work of true education and the mission of redemption are intricately intertwined. With this paradigm in mind, parents and teachers are called to instill in students an awareness of their God-given individuality and agency—the power to think and act. Those who grasp this inherent potential emerge as responsible individuals, leaders in their endeavors, and influencers of character. Rather than being mere products of their circumstances, they become adept at critical thinking, decisive action, and unwavering conviction.
The driving objective behind White’s extensive discourse on true education is to equip the youth for their forthcoming journey into adulthood. Her aspiration is for them to emerge as upstanding citizens, physically robust, devout in their faith, with untainted characters, and steadfast in their adherence to principles.
Aim of True Education 2024
True education transcends mere academic pursuit; it encompasses the holistic development of the individual across their entire lifespan. It entails nurturing the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of human existence. The foundation of such education, as articulated in inspired writings, lies in the acknowledgment of the Infinite One as the source of all wisdom and knowledge.
While history acknowledges many eminent educators who have illuminated the path of knowledge, White emphasizes one who stands above them all—the Sun of Righteousness. Every insight, every intellectual breakthrough, ultimately derives its brilliance from the divine light. Thus, the true pinnacle of education attained through a profound understanding of God, wherein the finite mind communes with the Infinite.
Paths of Judgment
In contemporary discourse, much attention devoted to the notion of “higher education.” However, White contends that true higher education emanates from the divine source of knowledge and understanding. Genuine knowledge and authentic growth stem from a profound acquaintance with God, permeating every facet of human inquiry and observation. Through this communion with the divine intellect, humanity experiences the highest form of education—a method epitomized in the primordial education of Adam and Eve.
Ellen G. White
White’s affinity for the youth and her intimate familiarity with the challenges they face in their educational journey stem from her extensive engagement with educational institutions and her profound insight into human nature. Endowed with exceptional literary and oratory skills, she has left an indelible mark on the discourse surrounding education, focusing not on curriculum minutiae or educational systems’ merits but on timeless principles that guide both parents and teachers in nurturing today’s youth.
