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You and I have seen it all before in ministry. The young people
and children we work with often grown in their faith during an
extended time away from normal life. Times like camp or mission
trips or vacation Bible school. But if they go home to parents
who lack an authentic love for God, children will soon be
discouraged, and their newfound passion for relationship with
God will inevitably diminish. Why? Parents are the primary faith
influencers in children’s lives by design. To equip the
generations effectively, we must reach and equip parents. [35]
Obedient followers know the Shepherd’s voice and respond to His
direction. We hear Jesus’ voice through Scripture, the Holy
Spirit, and the counsel of Christlike people, which directly
relates to the core competencies of prayer, Scripture, and
community. Think of it. What would it be like to have a church
full of parents who lead their children to become obedient
followers by example? That’s equipping the generations. [104]
We were designed for community. The problem is that we’re
conditioned to be individualistic and self-sufficient. The
worldview of the Bible and of Jesus is relational and connected.
Biblical church is community. As church leaders we can teach
community, we can organize for community, and we can pray for
community, but interestingly enough we can’t force community.
It’s the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of people working
out their salvation with fear and trembling. We need each other
as we grow in Christ and experience life. [105]
Parents who abide in Christ will raise children who abide in
Christ. [106]
It’s generally impossible to fake Christianity with the people
who call us husband or wife, Mom or Dad. At home, all walls are
down. There’s no act, no special title or office of importance.
Family is the relational context in which we offer the most
authentic view of our faith, whether positively or negatively.
[122]
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