From Critical Thinking to Spiritual Maturity: Connecting the Apostle Paul and John Dewey

Abstract

Educators, philosophers, and theologians have long concerned themselves with the process of critical thinking. John Dewey’s writings, specifically How We Think, cast a long shadow in both secular and religious educational contexts. Can the Christian educator employ Dewey’s framework for reflective thinking in a useful manner without subscribing to his naturalistic underpinnings? This article evaluates Dewey’s reflective thinking process and suggests potential applications to Christian growth and maturity. First, biblical components must replace the deficiencies in Dewey’s epistemology. Next, the article examines the mandate for and role of critical thinking in the life of the mature Christian through the lens of Paul’s letter to the church in Rome. Finally, a clear connection between Paul’s teaching and Dewey’s process will be presented.