Philosophy Professor Peter Boghossian notoriously claimed that “faith is a cognitive sickness that’s been turned into a moral virtue.” He went on to say that every class is an opportunity to help students lose their faith.

When the instructors our kids sit under in higher education come in with an agenda like that, Gen Z’s sharp exodus from the faith makes a lot of sense. A child would have to be well prepared to withstand that kind of onslaught to their faith.

In the episode 114 ofCHRISTIAN PARENT/CRAZY WORLD, we delve into the critical question of how higher education is leading Christian kids away from their faith. My special guest, David Richardson, brings a unique perspective on the landscape of higher education. With over 32 years of experience working with secular college and university professors through Campus Crusade for Christ, Dave sheds light on the challenges faced by Christian youth in academic settings. 

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And get this… Dave’s personal journey from atheist student to faith in Christ happened on a progressive college campus. And it happened in a very supernatural way. You can hear part of his testimony here:

That happened at the University of Portland after a game of Dungeons & Dragons. Dave accepted Christ a few days later. Moms & Dads, be encouraged… God can meet our kids in these very dark institutions!

Dave has identified two core issues that prevent most professors from believing in God: hypocrisy in the church and the lack of a tangible connection between God and academic disciplines. And the professors who do believe in God rarely have more than Sunday school education in theology with no experience connecting their faith with their field of expertise. Missionaries like Dave are bringing light to the lost landscape of higher education. So say a prayer for these campus missionaries, and say a prayer for your kid’s professors.

As we grapple with the decision to send our children to secular institutions, Dave offers valuable insights into understanding the challenges faced by Christian youth in higher education. We need to understand what is happening in that world as parents and as culturally aware Christians.

You can listen to this vitally important conversation on Life Audio by clicking on the image below:

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Guest bio: David Richardson is the founder of the Assumptions Institute and its Chief Executive Officer. Prior to founding the Assumptions Institute, Richardson served for 30 years on the staff of Cru, formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ, devoting most of his ministry to university professors. He holds a B.A. degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland, and an M.A. degree in Theological Studies from the International School of Theology. Richardson also holds an MTh. degree in Applied Theology from the University of Oxford. His dissertation, “Accepting Christian Faith in the Academy” was an important exploratory study of the religious attitudes and beliefs of university professors and how to reach them for Christ. He understands education and educators very well. Richardson’s first book, Transparent: How to See Through the Powerful Assumptions That Control You released from Clovercroft Publishing.

EPISODE RESOURCES & LINKS:

Dave’s Website: Learn to Discern

Civil Air Patrol (CAP)

5 Views on Apologetics , Steven B. Cowen editor

Expelled: No Evidence Allowed by Ben Stein

Ben Stein Interview with Richard Dawkins

Barna Research: “Emerging Gen Z May Deliver Huge Blow to Religion in U.S.” (6/8/18)

Peter Boghossian interview PragerU: “We Should Burn the University System to the Ground

PSU philosophy teacher wants to question students’ faith-based beliefs – The Oregonian 11/10/11)

“Should We Challenge the Beliefs of Our Students?” (Sandwalk, 3/9/12)

“Faith No More: Professor Peter Boghossian on Why You Should Kick Your Faith to the Curb” (Portland Mercury, 4/5/12)