Schaff's Bible Dictionary
SCHOOL, Acts 19:9. SCHOL'AR, 1 Chr 25:8, SCHOOL'MASTER. Gal 3:24. Schools existed among the Jews from a very early period. They were established under the supervision of the prophets to train young men to become expounders of the Law, and so fit them for the priestly and prophetical offices. 1 Sam 19:18-24; 2 Kgs 2:3, 2 Kgs 2:5, 2 Kgs 2:7, 2 Kgs 2:12, 2 Kgs 2:15. The children were taught to read by their parents and in common schools, and in higher seminaries were instructed by doctors in the Law and traditions. The system of education in religious matters was quite advanced and very popular.
It was settled just at what age a child should begin, how many scholars a teacher should have, and by whom he should be paid. See Education. The schoolmaster, in Paul's use of the term, was a person to whom was committed the care of children, to lead them, to observe them, and to instruct them in their first rudiments. Thus the office nearly answered to that of a governor or tutor. Gal 4:2-3, who constantly attends his pupil, teaches him, and forms his manners. It is said.
; but, since we are supposed to be advanced to superior learning, and are committed to the tuition of the faith which we have embraced, we have no longer need of a schoolmaster, as such is of no further use to young persons when advanced to years of maturity.