Questions for Parenting: Part 2

Texts: Colossians 3:20-21, Ephesians 6:1-4, Hebrews 12:6-11, Deuteronomy 11:18-19

Sermon: Rev. Matt Kennedy

1. [Lead-In] Disciplining children is similar to when you first decide to live like a Christian.  Share your trials of when you first committed your life to Christ.

2. [Lead-In] Why will children who fail to respect their parents also refuse to respect other authority figures, adults and teachers?

3. [Heb. 12:5-11] Saying yes or always agreeing with your child can be addictive and unhealthy for the entire family over time. What might be some of the consequences of this?

4. [Eph. 6:1-2] Paul commands two rules for the children: Obey your parents and honor them.  Give some examples in what obeying and honoring parents looks like or doesn't look like.

5. [Eph. 6:1-4] We love God because He loved us first... and He showed us what that love looks like.  How does this love work in parenting?

6. [Eph. 6:1-4] Is it okay for parents to admit their wrongs to children?

7. [Deut. 11:18-19] How should parents work Jesus into everyday situations (including discipline)?

8. [App] How do we teach children to take the focus off themselves and onto Jesus?

9. [App] How should parents discipline their children without provoking anger?

Questions for Parenting: Part 1

Text: Colossians 3:20-21, Ephesians 2:1-3, Ephesians 2:8-10, Ephesians 6:1-4

Sermon: Rev. Matt Kennedy

1. [Lead In] Discuss some of the ways you were raised or how you have raised your children.

2. [Eph 2:1-3] Paul states here that all humans are fallen by nature. What does “by nature” mean? And what evidences do we see of this truth?

3. [Eph 2:1-3] American culture in particular views children differently than Scripture. Discuss some of these views and the reasons why they might be incompatible with a Biblical worldview.

4. [Eph 2:8-10] Paul also states that we were designed to enjoy and to glorify God. What are some things that please God, which are also things you love to do?

5. [App] How does our fallen and disobedient state distort the fact that we were made to find joy in God by glorifying him?

6. [Eph 6:1-3] Why does God want children to obey their parents? What benefit is there to the child physically, mentally, and spiritually?

7. [Eph 6:1-3] Put the promise in verses two and three into layman’s terms.  Also, why does this promise make sense in a practical and spiritual way?

8. [App] In light of these questions, prioritize the goals of parenting. Please share and discuss your reasoning with the group.