1. The Role of Parents - 2 GODLY HOMES IN AN UNGODLY WORLD (11)

2. PSALM 127:3-5 “ Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth…”

3. PSALM 127:3-5 “ …Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.”

4. PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS The direction we take our parenting will have a direct bearing on society. Prov. 22:6 The role of father – lead the house, provide, protect, love The role of mother – love, manage the house,

5. EPHESIANS 6:4 “Fathers” – he is accountable, Col. 3:21 The mother helps and is given latitude (1 Tim. 5:14, 2:15) Exodus 20:12, Prov. 6:20, Eph. 6:1-2 Raising children IS a 2 parent job! A child needs both a father and a mother

6. EPHESIANS 6:4 “Bring them up” – provide for, rear., cf. Eph. 5:29 Raising children starts at infancy (if not before). Continues through adolescence & teen years & beyond.

7. EPHESIANS 6:4 “In the training” – to provide instructions for (children) Instruction in its various forms Teaching – learning what is needed Showing by example – 2 Tim. 1:5, cf. Matt 5:16

8. EPHESIANS 6:4 “In the training” Permission & denial – help them make decisions Discipline (punishment) – Prov. 29:15, 13:24, 23:13-14, 22:15, Heb. 12:5-11, etc. There is a place for “corporal punishment” We MUST discipline our children! NOT abuse!

9. EPHESIANS 6:4 “and admonition” Providing instruction so as to correct behavior While training deals with showing, admonition deals with verbal teaching – cf. Deut. 6:6-9 Home is where children need to learn much of life’s lessons – while we have influence Family roles, integrity, hard work, loving God,…

10. EPHESIANS 6:4 “of the Lord” Let us not forget that this is our goal!

11. EPHESIANS 6:4 “Do not provoke…” Col. 3:21 Parents need to not frustrate or cause children to rebel. Act like parents!

12. EPHESIANS 6:4 “Do not provoke…” How do we provoke? Favoritism Ignoring our children Being overbearing or unreasonable Failing to discipline in love Constant criticism Inconsistencies

13. Other Considerations Spend time with them Treat each child individually (but fairly) Train the whole child You WILL make mistakes Invite God into your home

14. In conclusion: Let God’s word be your guide Psalm 127:3-5 – like arrows Don’t take it out unless you intend to shoot Requires archer and bow

15. In conclusion: Psalm 127:3-5 – like arrows Where is your target? Aim for that target Failure to aim is dangerous We have to let go! Prov.22:6

16. LET US TAKE OUR ROLE AS PARENTS SERIOUSLY