Raising Our Children For God (4 of 7) - Zac Poonen
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that every child is a gift from God, and parents must view raising children as training them to be spiritual warriors against Satan, not just preparing them for earthly battles. Drawing from Psalm 127, the speaker urges parents to take responsibility for sharpening their children's faith by guarding their media consumption and daily influences. Ultimately, the goal is to raise children who will not be ashamed when confronted by their enemies.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Children are a gift and reward from the LordReading from Psalm 127, the speaker highlights that children are gifts and rewards from God, compared to arrows in a warrior's hand.Psalm 127:3–4
Aligning our thinking with God's thoughts on sons and daughtersGod's ways differ from human traditions that favor male children; believers must examine themselves if they feel disappointed over having a girl.
Receiving a child in Jesus' nameJesus equates receiving a little child in His name with receiving Jesus Himself, placing children on the same level as apostles.Matthew 18:5Matthew 10:40
Sharpening children like arrows against SatanParents are to act as spiritual warriors, training their children to fight against the devil rather than engaging in physical fights with other people.Psalm 127:4
Our true responsibility before the gateInstead of focusing merely on earthly achievements, parents should pray and strive to make their children effective weapons in God's army.
Protecting children from spiritual poisonParents must carefully monitor media consumption and entertainment to avoid blunting the sharp edge of their children's spiritual usefulness.
Guiding children by parental exampleChildren must be alert to the world without tasting evil, and parents must model a serious walk with God to properly prepare them.
