Discussion Notes (for use in a small group or individual study)
Sermon: Family Relationships
(Phone apps are good for comparing multiple translations. Study Bibles help with interpretation.)
Questions:
1. Icebreaker question: Think of a big disagreement you had with your parent(s) when you were young. What happened?
2. The sermon focused on the Bible’s teaching about the relationship between children and their parents. What do you remember about each of the main points? What stood out to you or impacted you?
3. Read Psalm 127:1-5
a) According to this Psalm, what does a successful family need?
b) What does a weary parent need to remember?
c) How are parents to view their children?
d) What is God’s intention for children as they grow up?
4. Read 1 Samuel 3:1-21. In this passage we see Eli the priest being reprimanded because of his wicked sons (who were also serving as priests). Samuel was a young boy who had been dedicated to service at the temple under Eli.
a) In what ways did Samuel show respect for authority in this passage?
b) Why was the Lord unhappy with Eli?
c) Eli’s sons were adults. Why would he still be responsible for them? (See Deuteronomy 24:16) (Hint: it has more to do with his office than his family ties)
d) How did Eli’s response to Samuel’s words reveal some of his deficiencies?
e) As parents, how can we overcome weariness and passivity to lead our children well?
5. Read Paul’s words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:5 and 2 Timothy 3:14-15.
a) How would you describe Timothy’s spiritual legacy?
b) What kind of legacy would you like to leave for your children and grandchildren?
c) What steps would you need to take to leave such a legacy?
6. Spend some time in prayer together. Pray for each other’s kids and grandkids. Pray for good family relationships in our church and community.