Topical Encyclopedia
IntroductionParenting is a significant theme in the Bible, offering guidance and wisdom for raising children in a manner that honors God. The Scriptures provide principles and examples that underscore the importance of nurturing, disciplining, and instructing children in the ways of the Lord. This entry explores biblical advice for parents, drawing from various passages to highlight the responsibilities and blessings of parenthood.
Biblical Foundations1.
Instruction and Teaching The Bible emphasizes the role of parents as primary educators of their children in spiritual and moral matters.
Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse underscores the importance of instilling godly values and wisdom from an early age.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 further instructs parents: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage highlights the continuous and intentional nature of teaching children about God's commandments.
2.
Discipline and Correction Discipline is portrayed in the Bible as an expression of love and concern for a child's well-being.
Proverbs 13:24 states, "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently." This proverb suggests that appropriate discipline is necessary for guiding children away from harmful behaviors and towards righteousness.
Hebrews 12:11 acknowledges the challenges of discipline: "No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it." This verse reassures parents that although discipline may be difficult, it ultimately produces positive outcomes.
3.
Modeling Godly Behavior Parents are called to be role models, demonstrating a life of faith and obedience to God. In
1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul encourages believers to "imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ." This principle applies to parenting, as children often learn by observing their parents' actions and attitudes.
Ephesians 6:4 advises fathers, "Do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse highlights the importance of nurturing a loving and respectful relationship with children, avoiding harshness that may lead to resentment.
4.
Prayer and Dependence on God The Bible encourages parents to rely on prayer and God's guidance in their parenting journey.
James 1:5 offers reassurance: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." Parents are invited to seek divine wisdom in making decisions and addressing challenges.
Philippians 4:6-7 reminds parents to bring their concerns to God: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This passage encourages parents to trust in God's provision and peace.
Examples of Biblical Parents1.
Hannah and Samuel Hannah's dedication of her son Samuel to the Lord (
1 Samuel 1:27-28) exemplifies a parent's commitment to God's purposes. Her faithfulness in prayer and her vow to God demonstrate the importance of entrusting children to God's care and guidance.
2.
Mary and Jesus Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a model of obedience and faith. Her response to the angel's announcement in
Luke 1:38, "I am the Lord's servant. May it happen to me according to your word," reflects a heart willing to submit to God's will, a quality that parents are encouraged to emulate.
3.
Lois, Eunice, and Timothy The faith of Timothy's grandmother Lois and mother Eunice is commended in
2 Timothy 1:5. Their sincere faith and teaching played a crucial role in shaping Timothy's spiritual life, illustrating the impact of a godly heritage.
ConclusionThe Bible provides a wealth of wisdom and guidance for parents, emphasizing the importance of teaching, discipline, modeling godly behavior, and relying on prayer. Through biblical examples and direct instruction, parents are encouraged to raise their children in a manner that honors God and prepares them for a life of faith and obedience.
Topical Bible Verses
Ephesians 6:1Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Topicalbible.orgColossians 3:20
Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing to the Lord.
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Library
Christian Casuistry.
... thou shalt not do this." Whensoever therefore, we come toadvice there is... it is the
instinctive, unwavering conviction of every Christianparent, united though...
That Lucretius and Others have Erred, and Cicero Himself, in...
... or what has thatparent of life taught you, if you are deplorably ignorant of the
truth?... [420] [Advice which he took to heart as a swinish debauchee.]....
Search the Scriptures
... We always respect theiradvice, even when we cannot receive it, for the sake of
the... I had never heard any preacher, or had never been taught by aparent; and I...
Then Maximian Returned into Gaul; and after Having Made Some Stay...
... The young prince believed theadvice to be judicious, because given by an aged and...
The rebel emperor, and unnaturalparent and a perfidious father-in-law, was...
Mutual Help.
... Secondly, let me give you a few homely words ofadvice about the special... where you
have very frequently to stand alone, without the help ofparent or teacher....
In the Sod Cellar
... To thisadvice John made no reply; for an appetite was being formed, and in... have
more fully realized how next to impossible it is for aparent to availingly...
To the Rev. J. Jowett
... translators, even when they come to your door to ask for youradvice and assistance...
But he said that in China children never address theirparent in this manner...
Useful Hints.
... no definite rule whereby parents may control their home, except to seekadvice from
God... not lost; but, on the other hand, is a benefit for bothparent and child...
2 Cor. Iii. 5
... as we should not fail to judge thus in the Case of any EarthlyParent; so we... The
Verse before isAdvice to the Wicked: Lay not wait, O wicked Man, against the...
Slaves and Free
... the Apostle here treats the great abomination of slavery, and the singularadvice
that he... sell away dear ones; he could part husband and wife,parent and child...
Resources
What does the Bible say about stepparenting / step-parenting? | GotQuestions.orgI am a parent; how can I let go of my adult children? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a godparent / god-parent? | GotQuestions.orgParent: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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