Being A Godly Father - Zac Poonen
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the profound responsibility fathers have in revealing God the Father to their children, as they are the primary source of early understanding. Drawing from Abraham's example, a godly father must teach his children to obey God's commands, mirroring Abraham's discipline and Isaac's ultimate obedience. Conversely, the failure of Eli's sons demonstrates how poor leadership and moral decay can corrupt a family's spiritual life.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Jesus came to reveal God as a fatherJesus came not only to die for our sins, but to reveal God as a father to a world that pictured Him as a tyrant or judge.John 1:18
Our attitude toward childrenJesus taught that whoever receives a little child in His name receives Him, showing that loving children is central to following Christ.Matthew 18:5
Abraham's example of commanding his familyGod chose Abraham because he commanded his children and family to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice.Genesis 18:18
The failure of Eli and his sonsEli honored his sons above God by failing to properly rebuke their wickedness, resulting in God removing his family from ministry.1 Samuel 2:12
Samuel's neglect and its consequencesThough Samuel was a faithful judge, he was too busy in ministry to properly raise his sons, who turned aside after dishonest gain.1 Samuel 8:1
Being a good husband firstThe first step to bringing up godly children is being a good husband who values and remains faithful to the wife of his youth.Malachi 2:14
Cashing in God's promises through prayerParents must take biblical promises like Isaiah 54:13 and Isaiah 59:21 to the bank of heaven in prayer for their children and grandchildren.Isaiah 54:13
Family management as a condition for leadershipGod holds fathers responsible for their children's upbringing, making the proper management of one's family a strict condition for church leadership.1 Timothy 3:4
The danger of parental hypocrisyMany children go astray because they see hypocrisy in their parents, living one way on Sunday and another at home.
The faith of Moses' parentsMoses' parents entered the hall of faith because they hid him and instilled godly values that caused him to reject the world's honors and pleasures.Hebrews 11:23
Reflecting the kindness and severity of GodFathers must portray a balanced picture of God by being both kind and strict with their children, mirroring the character of God.Romans 11:22
Being filled with the Holy SpiritFathers cannot properly manage their homes or avoid provoking their children to anger without being filled with the Holy Spirit.Ephesians 5:18
Hope for single mothers and asking for wisdomSingle mothers raising children alone have great hope, and any imperfect father can ask God in faith for the wisdom needed to raise godly children.
