As young Christian leaders, we are called to navigate a world filled with diverse perspectives and complex challenges. Developing critical thinking skills is essential for discerning truth, making wise decisions, and leading with integrity. At Impact 360, we work to equip young people to become Christ-centered leaders who influence their culture for Him. Our purpose, values, and Know, Be, Live circular philosophy provide a solid foundation for cultivating critical thinking through a biblical lens.

Impact 360 Institute’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the critical importance of integrating faith and learning. Critical thinking skills are fundamental to this and our team works with intention to create a transformative learning environment where students can grow intellectually, spiritually, and relationally. This holistic approach ensures that critical thinking is not just an intellectual exercise but a means of deepening our relationship with Christ and others.

Impact 360’s Know, Be, Live teaching approach toward critical thinking includes the ingredients of truth, relationships, and influence. These values are essential for developing critical thinking skills through a biblical lens:

  1. Absolute Truth: We believe that truth exists and all truth is God’s truth. As the author of all that is, God alone defines reality through what has been created and what has been revealed in the Bible. Critical thinking involves seeking truth through this lens with humility and discernment. We must be willing to question cultural assumptions, evaluate evidence, and align our conclusions with biblical principles.
  2. Relationships: Critical thinking is not a solitary endeavor. It is sharpened in study and conversation with others and thrives in the context of discussion and relationships. Engaging in thoughtful dialogue with both those who hold similar opinions and those who may hold different perspectives sharpens our thinking and deepens our understanding. All Christian leaders, regardless of age, should seek out mentors, peers, and diverse voices who can challenge our thinking, assumptions, and opinions in order to refine our thinking.
  3. Influence: The goal of influence, as Christians, is not just to develop strong critical thinking skills for our own benefit but ultimately to influence others for Christ. Critical thinking equips us to engage with culture on important topics and issues both thoughtfully and winsomely. By articulating our beliefs clearly and respectfully, we can be effective ambassadors for Christ in a world that desperately needs His truth and love.

Here are ways you can develop and strengthen your critical thinking skills:

  1. Ask Questions and Seek Diverse Perspectives: Cultivate curiosity by asking questions about the information you encounter. A question such as “that’s interesting, tell me why you believe that” can open up insightful conversations.
  2. Analyze Assumptions Read Widely and Evaluate Evidence: Identify the assumptions underlying your beliefs and those of others. Consider whether these assumptions are justified through other sources, not just your own possible biases, and how they influence conclusions.
  3. Engage in Reflective Thinking and Practice Problem-Solving: Take time to reflect on your thought processes and decisions. Consider what you did well and what you could improve.

Developing critical thinking skills through a biblical lens is a lifelong journey. As young Christian leaders, you have the privilege and responsibility to seek truth, engage with others, and influence our culture for Christ. By embracing these approaches, we can become discerning and effective leaders who make a lasting impact for God’s kingdom.