Christian ParentingShembull

Whose Job Is It?

As believers in Christ, we recognize the weighty responsibility God has placed on parents for the upbringing of their children. It is not the state, the church, or society that bears this primary responsibility but the parents themselves. External influences can play a role and it is important not to isolate our children from the world entirely or shift blame onto the church when they stray. Instead, we are called to embrace the biblical model of parenting.

In Ephesians 6:4, fathers are specifically instructed to raise their children in the training and instruction of the Lord. This highlights the active role parents play in their children’s spiritual development. Parenting is not a part-time endeavor; it requires our full-time commitment. Proverbs 22:15 reminds us that foolishness is naturally bound up in the hearts of children. Therefore, they will naturally drift off course if we neglect our duty to lead and guide them. Our active involvement in their spiritual formation is crucial. Discipline, when exercised in love, is an integral part of parenting. Proverbs 13:24 teaches us that a loving parent is diligent in disciplining their child.

Both fathers and mothers have unique roles to play in their children’s spiritual growth. Fathers are called to invest significant time and energy as spiritual leaders in their homes, while mothers are urged to prioritize their families over busyness in church ministry. Although church involvement is valuable, our primary ministry responsibility lies within our own households. Children are entrusted to us as a sacred stewardship, and we must approach this duty with utmost seriousness. Rejecting passivity and the tendency to shift blame, we must wholeheartedly commit ourselves to evangelizing and discipling our own children.

While the essence of parenting is simple, we must not mistake simplicity for ease. It demands our time, consistency, fervent prayer, and unwavering reliance on God's Word. We cannot embark on this journey in our own strength but must lean on God’s wisdom and guidance through His Word and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit. Active parenting, rooted in the truths of Scripture, is a necessary response to the fallen nature of our children. We cannot afford to be complacent or passive in this crucial role. Leading our children to Christ and building a foundation rooted in the gospel and biblical teachings is paramount. As we embrace this divine calling, may we remember that our faithful parenting has eternal significance in shaping the hearts and lives of our children.