Jeremia

Reading Notes: Entry Points, Chapter 6

1. Chapter 6 Outline: English literature
I. Rationale and aims
II. The use of the Bible itself in the teaching of language
III. The identification of overtly Christian elements in literary works
IV. The use of literature to explore beliefs and values
V. The power of the spoken word
VI. The Christian teacher as a guide
VII. The use of explicitly Christian literature

2. Notes:
I. The study of literature can give: (1) sensitivity to language, (2) an extension of our
experience of life, (3) insight into moral patterns of life as well as the moral nature of the
universe
II. The Bible (1) can be used as an object of literary study and to exemplify literary genre, (2)
can be used in learning to read
III. Many works of literature make reference to Christian institutions, beliefs, practices and
images. If these Biblical allusions are not understood, texts become one-dimensional. A
greater knowledge of the Bible is needed in order to appreciate such works.
IV. Works of literature raise and invite reflection on a wide variety of issues - moral, social,
personal, spiritual, philosophical, economic, etc.
V. The Bible tells us that the power of the tongue is immense. It would be fruitful to look at the
influence of the spoken word and to examine the skills needed for successful public
speaking.
VI. The Christian teacher of literature can exercise a number of moral responsibilities in the
light of his or her Christian understanding. These include choosing edifying literature that
aligns well with Christian values and omitting works with an occult or sexually explicit or
nihilistic emphasis.
VII. The teacher of literature can draw from a rich heritage of Christian literature such as the
poetry of Donne (The Flea), Milton (Paradise Lost), John Bunyans Pligrims Progress;
Biblical poetry, parables, and other genres. The teaching of Christian literature does not
mean teaching religion. Rather, it helps students gain spiritual insights.

3. Reflection:
Language is a worldwide medium of communication. As such, it is the most useful for spreading
the word of God. God created language perfectly and we ought to strive to do the same. We also
can serve people and build relationship through language. Finally, the Bible itself is written
 Jeremia

language. Language is needed to understand the Bible properly, and simultaneously the Bible is
useful to understand language.
Works of literature raise and invite reflection on a wide variety of issues - moral, social,
personal, spiritual, philosophical, economic, etc. In my teaching practicum, I used literature to
teach moral and social justice issues from a historical-fiction novel. Not only that but I also
encourage my students to examine such issues using a biblical perspective.

Reference
MacKenzie, P., Farnell, A., Holt, A., & Smith, D. (1997). Entry Points for Christian Reflection within
Education. London: CARE.