Raising Our Children For God (1 of 7) - Zac Poonen
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that Christian life requires manifesting God's truth through one's actions, which is a higher standard than in the Old Covenant. He stresses that a person's life testimony—demonstrating that they sought God's kingdom first—is what truly matters, more than human opinion. Regarding parenting, he cites Proverbs 22:6, urging parents to diligently train their children in the way they should go, and points to Genesis 18:19, noting that God chose Abraham specifically so he could *command* his descendants to keep the Lord's way.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Difference Between the Old and New CovenantsIn the Old Testament, how you lived at home or brought up your children did not affect your ministry, but in the New Testament it is fundamental.
Manifesting the Word of God in Our LivesGod's thoughts are in Scripture, and those words must become flesh in us so that our entire life bears a true testimony.
Training Children According to ProverbsProverbs 22:6 gives a clear condition and promise regarding training up a child in the way he should go so that he will not depart from it when old.Proverbs 22:6
Taking Personal Responsibility for Our ChildrenParents must avoid making excuses or blaming bad company for their children's rebellion, and instead honestly acknowledge their own faults before God.
Abraham as a Righteous FatherGod chose Abraham so that he would command his children and family after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice.
Failures of Isaac, Eli, and Samuel as FathersFathers like Isaac, Eli, and Samuel failed to discipline or properly restrain their sons, leading to severe judgment from God upon their families.
Family Management as a Prerequisite for MinistryFirst Timothy 3 teaches that an elder must manage his own family well because home life takes priority over church ministry.
David's Failure with AdonijahDespite being a man after God's own heart, David spoiled his son Adonijah rotten by never once reprimanding or crossing him.
