Marriage and Family: Parents
Statement of Belief
We believe that parents, within the family unit ordained by God, are called to nurture, instruct, and discipline their children in the ways of the Lord. Their primary responsibility is to raise their children in the knowledge and fear of God, thereby equipping them to live a life that honors God.
Ephesians 6:4 — Proverbs 22:6 1)
Additional Information
The role of parents in a Christian family is distinctly outlined in the biblical narrative. According to Ephesians 6:42), parents, especially fathers, are instructed not to provoke their children to anger but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This command emphasizes the responsibility of parents to provide a nurturing environment for their children, fostering their spiritual growth and moral development.
In addition to fostering spiritual growth, parents are also tasked with the responsibility of disciplining their children. The discipline mentioned in Ephesians 6:4 is not to be understood as harsh or punitive, but as loving correction aimed at guiding children towards God's ways.
The instruction of the Lord, as referenced in Ephesians, involves teaching children the truths of God's Word and instilling in them the values of the Christian faith. This task underscores the vital role of parents as the primary spiritual influencers in their children's lives.
The wisdom of Proverbs also speaks to the role of parents, advising them to train up a child in the way he should go (Proverbs 22:6): “Train a child in the way that he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” This verse highlights the long-lasting impact of parental influence, as children often carry the teachings and values imparted by their parents into adulthood.
Thus, we believe that parents, as delineated in the Scriptures, have a divine mandate to nurture, instruct, and discipline their children in the ways of the Lord. They are entrusted with the task of shaping their children's character and faith, preparing them for a life that honors God and serves others.
In conclusion, the role of parents in a Christian family, as outlined in Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 22:6, is one of nurturing, instruction, and discipline. By fulfilling these responsibilities, parents can influence their children towards a path of godliness and virtue, building a strong foundation for their spiritual growth and maturity. This crucial role, when carried out with love and wisdom, serves to uphold the God-ordained structure of the family and foster a godly legacy for future generations.