There is a question Christian parents almost never ask as this school year draws to a close: Why do we send our children into institutions that work against the very faith we spent eighteen years nurturing?
As university professors, many of us relate deeply to the excitement parents feel about their children’s college admissions. Raising children to complete high school and pursue higher education is one of the most significant responsibilities Christian parents undertake. Yet behind this enthusiasm lies a critical omission: Christian parents rarely consider whether they are enrolling their children in environments that actively undermine the faith they have cultivated.
Modern universities often present themselves as neutral spaces for intellectual inquiry. However, this neutrality is an illusion. Today’s academic institutions are structured around frameworks that systematically challenge Christianity while positioning themselves as morally superior. The influence of thinkers like Michel Foucault has reshaped how truth is understood in classrooms—students are taught knowledge is tied to power and what earlier generations called “truth” is merely the perspective of those who won. Similarly, Paulo Freire’s educational philosophy, emphasizing liberation from oppression, has become foundational in teacher training. Under this lens, Christianity is frequently categorized as an oppressive force.
The language of “diversity, equity, and inclusion” further redefines truth itself as identity-based. Moral authority shifts to lived experience rather than divine revelation. The Bible, under these frameworks, is treated as a cultural artifact that historically supported systems of oppression—rather than the inspired Word of God.
This transformation has profound consequences for students. First comes disorientation: “Everything I learned growing up is being questioned.” Then pressure: “If you don’t agree, you’re part of the problem.” This leads to isolation—fewer Christian friends and fewer edifying conversations. Ultimately, students may abandon faith entirely or redefine it to fit within a system that once challenged it.
Parents often assume universities are neutral spaces occasionally disrupted by bad ideas. But this is not the case. Today’s institutions are structured in ways that actively undermine Christianity while presenting themselves as compassionate and just.
Owen Anderson, a professor of philosophy and religion at Arizona State University and author of “The Declaration of Independence and God,” states parents should:
– Question their child’s faith: Ask whether they will remain faithful to Christ.
– Prepare them intellectually: Teach the Bible and historic Christian faith so they understand why their beliefs contrast with modern frameworks.
– Help them make faith in Christ personal: Love Christ and trust salvation by Him alone.
– Expose hostile frameworks early: Discuss Foucault, Freire, and DEI concepts before they appear in class.
Anderson concludes: “Stop assuming neutrality where none exists. This is a spiritual battle of good versus evil.”
