In connection with child dedication, we want to do some discussion of how our faith shapes our everyday parenting. We also want to address how this is important for the non-parents in the room as well (e.g., “it takes a village”). An opportunity to encourage others to pour into the next generation more broadly.
Matthew 6:33; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21
Sermon Outline
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
A Faith-Shaped Perspective on Parenting
- Children are a gift from God (and not a guarantee) (Psalm 127:3-4)
- Parents are privileged to introduce children to life in general and life with God (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
- Faith-shaped parenting prioritizes what God cares about (Matthew 6:33)
It Takes a Village
- Parents and families are part of a larger community (Ephesians 2:19-22)
- The community needs the gift of new generations (Ephesians 4:16)
- Parents need the community, including those who are not parents
Practices for Faith-Shaped Parenting
- Living our faith before our children (1 Corinthians 11:1)
- Praying for our children (Ephesians 1:17-19a)
- Listening to Scripture and worshipping with our children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
- Disciplining/training our children (Ephesians 6:4; Hebrews 12:7-11)
- Loving our children (Colossians 3:14; 1 Peter 4:8)
Humility in Faith-Shaped Parenting
- Always needing God’s guidance and help
- When we get it wrong
- Encountering our powerlessness
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- What is the quirkiest thing you see in yourself that you think comes from your parents?
- This week we continue our sermon series entitled “Everyday Ordinary Faith.” This week we will focus on faith-shaped parenting. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His word.
- Read Deuteronomy 6:5-9. What would you say these verses tell us about the role of parents in raising children in God’s ways?
- Now read Matthew 6:33, which has been a reference point throughout this series. How do you think parenting relates to seeking first God’s kingdom and righteousness?
- Read through the following verses and reflect on what they say about parenting: Exodus 20:12; Psalm 127; Proverbs 17:6; Proverbs 22:6; Matthew 19:14; Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21; Hebrews 12:7-11; 1 Timothy 5:8.
- Matt highlighted a series of practices related to faith-shaped parenting: living out our faith, praying for our children, listening to scripture and worshipping with our children, disciplining/training our children, and loving our children. Which of these do you find more natural and which are more a work in progress for you? Why?
- What is one thing you sense God calling to your attention personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith:
- Why do you think parenting might matter to God?
- How do you need to come to terms with your own parents’ influence in your life, both positively and negatively?
- How have they impacted your exploration and/or understanding of faith in God?
Growing in Faith
- If you are a parent, how might you take steps to be more intentional in approaching your parenting from a faith-shaped perspective? Try to add one of the spiritual practices Matt mentioned to your weekly routine, starting this week.
- If you are not a parent, what do you think it might look like to intentionally walk alongside parents in our church community?
Centered in Faith
- As you invest in the lives of others for Christ, how might you model and encourage them in their parenting this year?
- Is there one family you will specifically pray for this year?