So you go to a “Christian” school (or work at one, or send your kids to one) – so what?  What makes your school any different from a secular school?  Is it the curriculum?  Is it the dress code?  Is it the classical education model?  Deep down we know it is something else, something less tangible and more powerful – something I call “Gospel Culture.” 

Defining Gospel Culture

Gospel Culture is the social environment of your Christian community and the way in which that social environment reflects (or fails to reflect) the character of Jesus Christ.  It is the way the people within the walls of your school (or church, or home) grow and/or decline spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally.  The health (or lack thereof) of Gospel Culture directly impacts how people feel about the a school and is related to the quality of teachers and students a school is able to attract and maintain (sustainability).  More importantly, Gospel Culture has an eternal impact (for good or evil) on every person who comes into contact with the school - effectively moving them closer to or further from Jesus Christ.  Something this important deserves our attention!  That can start by asking this question:  How healthy is the Gospel Culture of your Christian environment?

Assessing Gospel Culture  

Addressing Gospel Culture begins by assessing it.  You can start by asking the following questions…

1. Do the people in my school experience the kind of freedom spoken of in 2 Cor.3:17?
2. Is my school environment the kind of reward described in Matthew 19:29?
3. When a person in my school makes a mistake, are they the first to find out about it (Matthew 18)?
4. Is encouragement, affirmation and intercession regularly seen in our hallways? 
5. Is the absent person protected in all conversations?
6. Are Christ-like character traits (like perseverance) esteemed more highly than good looks, athleticism or intellectual prowess?
7. Is humility rewarded and pride considered equivalent with foolishness?
8. Are heart issues addressed over and above behavior?
9. Are things like gossip and flirting understood as detrimental to joy?
10. Is my school a place of safety where “masks” are not necessary for survival?

Take Heart!

As we address Gospel Culture, it is important to remember that what God expects of us He also enables us to accomplish (2 Cor. 12:9).  There is much work to be done, but I praise God that it can be done in His power, by His means and for His glory.  Will you pray about addressing the Gospel Culture of your school today?

About the Author:  Kim Winters is a speaker, writer, pastor’s wife and mom of two kids in a Christian school.  To speak to Kim about assessing, addressing and improving the Gospel Culture of your Christian environment, email her at garlandhouse1@verizon.net or visit her blog at www.garlandhouse.blogspot.com