Critical Reflection on the Philosophical Understanding of Human Nature in Christian Religious Educational Ministry

Abstract

This study aims to offer a more profound comprehension of the origins, nature, and makeup, as well as the embodiment of humankind in relation to ontology, epistemology, and the axiom that encompasses us as humans within a philosophical and educational context. In this context, the paper explored the overall root, nature, and make-up, and the overall embodiment of humans within a philosophical framework and discussed how it is embodied in the teaching of the theology of knowledge. The paper also discussed the importance of a relational reflective style of knowing that is shaped by the faith stories of the Christians of old and the vision that those stories lead to in Christian religious education. The study concluded that the quest for understanding is not merely an academic exercise but a profound spiritual exploration. The philosophical underpinnings of human nature, as articulated by thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine and Calvin, underscore a dynamic interplay between rationality and divine revelation. There is a need for all to embrace the challenge of educating for virtuous action, grounded in a deep and abiding knowledge of oneself, one’s world, and the God who invites humanity into an ever-deepening relationship of love and understanding. Keywords: Human, Ontology, Education, Epistemology, Knowledge, Ministry, Philosophy, Christian, Experience.