When Paul was writing his letter to the church at Ephesus, he had a message God wanted him to write just to dads… “Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” God isn’t just looking for dads to be good providers… He wants them to make an impact in their child’s life for eternity!
And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4
Discussion Questions
Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.
- How much do you work toward leaving a legacy for your children that is financially focused instead of being present and investing in their lives with your time and attention? How do you juggle those two approaches?
- Read Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 15:1. Why do you think Paul starts by telling fathers not to exacerbate their children before the call to train them up? Have you ever been so frustrated when correcting and training up your children that it led to stirring up anger in them? How can you correct, teach, and train—even if you’re frustrated—without stirring up anger/bitterness/etc?
- Take a minute to reflect on the verses that Pastor Harrell covered this week in Daniel 1. What does it look like in today’s culture to teach our next generation to stand with conviction, courage, and confidence? How much of that training is verbal vs. exemplifying this in your life?
- The Babylonians immediately changed the names of Daniel and his friends to attempt to alter their identity. They wanted them to forget where they came from and to forget their God. How does the culture that our children are growing up in today attempt to steal our kids’ identities in Christ? List specific items with your Life Group and how to combat them as their parents and protectors.
- When the Bible provides examples of Jesus getting angry, His anger was directed towards the Pharisees – those religious leaders who falsely represented our Heavenly Father. When Jesus came across and interacted with sinners like the woman at the well or even His disciples, He exemplified “truth in love” as directed in Ephesians 4:15. How does this challenge you to be more like Christ? How do you apply this verse in life today? Are there areas where this is needed even more?
- Daniel stood firm in his convictions by simply saying “no” and not wavering in his decision. What are the areas in your life that you need to say “no” to in order to best serve the Lord and best lead your family?
- Pastor mentioned a few key areas of wisdom for fathers raising kids. They included being gracious with your children, giving them clear, excellent direction, and training them to stand alone in a world of compromise. Which areas do you struggle with the most, and which come easier to you? What can you do this week to strengthen and grow in these areas? Share best practices with your life group. {note}
Accountability
- Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
- Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
- How can you pray for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?
Questions about following Jesus?
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