p. 28 | Lessons in Education from Israel by W. H. Armstrong

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 6, 1906

Lessons in Education from Israel

By W. H. Armstrong

EDUCATION is one of heaven’s laws which is handed down to us. It occupied a prominent place in Israel. In the days of Jehoshaphat he sent princes, Levites, and priests, who took with them the book of the law of the Lord and taught throughout all the cities of Judah with such success that the fear of the Lord fell on all the kingdoms round about Judah, and the Philistines brought presents and tribute of silver, and the Arabians brought flocks to King Jehoshaphat. In the days of Elijah there were schools, and the sons of the prophets were there in attendance.

Before Elijah was translated, he visited three of the prominent schools, and each of these schools knew that Elijah was going to be translated. I think that this thought of translation should be paramount in all the teachings of our schools as well as in our churches. It will, if rightly revealed, add zeal and courage to those who receive it to the saving of their souls. This was the central thought in the minds of the sons of the prophets in the last days of Elijah on earth.

To Elisha it was said, “Knowest thou that the Lord will take away thy master from thy head to-day?” Note the fact that there was no doubt attached to their statement.

Those who are going out from our schools into the field to help give the message of the last warning to the world should be so educated that they would know the message. Then they will be able to give the trumpet a sound that can not be mistaken.

We are living in a world of uncertainties. But such is not to be the condition of the Israel of God. His servants will go forth bearing a positive message, “Prepare to meet thy God.” We have a sample of this in the days of David, in the case of Absalom and of Joab’s messenger. Joab did not want Ahimaaz to go, for he did not have a definite message to bear. But he insisted upon going, and Joab at last gave a reluctant consent. Although he outran the other messenger, yet when he reached King David, he could only say that he saw a tumult. Cushi came later with a definite message, saying, “Tidings, my lord the king.” He had the message for the hour. He knew it, and could deliver it.

I am glad to see taking hold of our ministers and teachers this idea of bearing a definite message to the world. The time of our departure is drawing near; we are homeward bound.

If the rulers and the merchants and their sons and daughters would take hold of the work as in the days of Nehemiah, the work would soon be finished.

W. H. ARMSTRONG.