I went to a Christian college for 4 years (well 3.5, graduated early…still not sure how that happened).
George Fox University to be exact.
Everyone in my family has gone to Christian colleges (parents both went to one, sisters went to ones in Southern California). So I think I’m qualified to share some thoughts on Christian colleges.
There is a lot of ways I could go with all this, but I want to focus on one thing: forced religion is never a good thing.
I think, too often Christian college feels too much like forced religion.
You have to take theology and Bible classes. You have to go to chapel.
Now don’t get me wrong…schools are not trying to force religion. They “make” students do these things because they know that these classes and activities are important in growing closer to God. And it is up to the person not the institution on what their relationship with Christ becomes.
Yet why do I have so many friends who completely fell away from God while attending a Christian college?
Most high school pastors are worried about the “black hole”. This is otherwise known as the drop off devoted followers of Christ have when they go to college. Yet, I don’t think Christian colleges are doing much to adapt to the fact that this hole exists. It is as if they think anyone who decides to go to a Christian college is a Christian and has a faith that won’t ever let go of God.
Too many Christian colleges are more worried about being parents and making sure their students don’t sin. Not enough schools are focused on giving students opportunities to grow closer to God while allowing them to grow into the adult world.
