It is a command, not an option or suggestion, primarily for fathers (Deuteronomy 4:9-10; 6:4-9; Psalm 34:11; 78:1-8; Isaiah 38:19; Joel 1:3; Proverbs 1:8; 6:20; 22:6; Ephesians 6:4).
It is a mark of great men (Gen 18:19; Josh 24:15; I Chron 28:9; Psalm 34:11; Isaiah 38:19; Prov 1:10; 4:1-9).
It is necessary due to the default nature of a child’s heart (Prov 22:15; 29:15; Ps 51:5; 58:3; I Cor 13:11; 14:20; Gal 4:1-2).
It saves parents from pain and brings great reward (Prov 10:1; 17:25; 19:26; 23:15-16,24-25; 28:7; 29:15,17).
It perpetuates the truth (Psalm 78:1-8; Joel 1:1-3; Isaiah 38:19; Jer 35:1-10; II Tim 1:5; 3:15).
It adorns the gospel (I Kings 5:7; Prov 27:11; Titus 2:9-10; I Peter 2:11-12).
It contends with the wicked in a degenerate society and profane generation (Pr 28:4; Rom 12:1-2; I Tim 6:1; II Tim 3:1-5).
It saves children from pain and death by showing real love (Pr 13:24; 23:13-14; 29:15; Heb 12:5-11).
The children are not yours, but the Lord’s (Gen 4:1,25; I Samuel 1:26-28; Psalm 127:3).
The goals are love of God, love of neighbor, ruling of self, and wisdom (I Sam 2:26; Pr 3:1-4; Luke 2:52).
For Further Study:
Sermon Outline: “Bible Child Training,” preached in early 1988, is available in print and on audiotapes.
Sermon Outline: “Family Planning,” which covers the goals and methods of a godly family tree.
Couples’ Retreat Notebook: “Family Planning,” which provides more practical suggestions for the above.
Online or Published book: “To Train Up a Child,” provides specific advice for training young children.
Book: “Our Children,” by the oldest daughter of General Booth, founder of the Salvation Army.
