The modern drift away from authority has had a negative impact on Christian families. Scripture says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” Our culture is suspicious of this truth.
If man is only the result of a random series of bio-chemical events, then the idea of being responsible to a divine authority has no validity–in fact, it is absurd. This is the mindset that today’s parents have been raised with.
Here are some questions that are a reality check to see if your parenting reflects the culture’s view of authority or God’s.
- How many times do you have to ask your children to obey before they do so?
- Do your children respond pleasantly when you ask them to do something?
- Do your children frequently argue with you or whine when told to obey?
- How often do you reference God when asking for obedience?
- How do your children view authorities outside your home, for example,
school teachers, law enforcement officers, pastors, etc. - Are your children accustomed to hearing you express gratitude for authority?
This list of questions is not exhaustive, but it will give you an indication of whether or not God’s view of authority is the dominant view in your home.
The most basic of life’s lessons is that man is accountable to and answerable to a sovereign God. Apart from this reality, even the gospel has no meaning. The gospel only makes sense when God’s authority and man’s accountability to that authority is grasped!
Take some time to consider how you represent God’s authority to your children. Meditate on the truth of Ephesians 6:3. The way your children respond to authority profoundly impacts their life on this earth. It is God’s world. He is in charge!