I don’t like to use the word awesome casually. I like to use the word according to its meaning – something that inspires awe or fear. I do believe it is appropriate to use the word awesome when we consider the duty given to parents.

Mothers and fathers are not only given the incredible privilege of receiving a new life that God has created into the world, but then we have the duty and challenge of leading our children to the Lord Jesus Christ and teaching them the truths of the Christian faith.

I am a pastor and teacher as well as a father. I believe pastors and teachers have important roles, but these roles can never replace the role given to fathers and mothers.

Let me share just two passages as we consider this subject.

Genesis 18:19 For I [Yahweh] have known him [Abraham], in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the LORD, to do righteousness and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him.

John Calvin said of this verse:

Wherefore, it is the duty of parents to apply themselves diligently to the work of communicating what they have learned from the Lord to their children. In this manner the truth of God is to be propagated by us, so that no one may retain his knowledge for his own private use;

A second verse to share comes from 1 Cor. 7. The context of this passage is related to marriage and divorce, but the verse that I share is related to my theme.

1 Cor. 7:14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.

The children of believing parents, even one believing parent, is viewed as being set apart or holy. This holiness is not automatic salvation or some absolute guarantee. It is our starting point for the awesome duty that God has given to parents. We have the awesome duty and challenge of leading our children to the Lord Jesus Christ and teaching them the truths of the Christian faith.

To this great end we are so blessed to partner with you and pray with and for you.