Rethinking the Virtue of Obedience: Do I follow or Not?

Abstract

This research paper discusses the virtue of obedience in the context of teaching theology and student formation and discipline. In this era when traditional perspectives are challenged by the changes and transformations in teaching frameworks, the practice of traditional obedience among students is given the least priority and often disregarded in favor of free learning. Since time immemorial, the virtue of obedience is considered as the cornerstone of moral and spiritual growth especially in theological education. However, this paper seeks to reflect on the virtue of obedience in the context of modern educational pedagogy. Obedience as a stand-alone virtue may hinder critical thinking, discernment, and understanding among learners. This paper seeks to bridge the gap between the essence of practicing obedience and progressive learning. It shall look closely at the framework of theological study amidst the modern teaching approach to enable the academic community to foster academic freedom in order to discover true theological understanding. Finally, as this paper delves into theological literature, modern teaching approaches, and actual practices in the academic community, this paper shall answer the relevance of obedience and propose alternative teaching strategies that will nurture growth in theological studies.