Introduction

Teach a youth about the way he should go; 

even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 22:6

In our polarized, hypocritical world, parenting philosophies abound. Everyone seems to have the answer, a new take, or something negative to say. As with every aspect of our lives, the Christian should be salt and light in the way he or she parents. We can confidently teach our children truth by both our words and our deeds, and we do not have to waver depending on circumstance. What’s more, we can offer a radical grace to our kids, even in our imperfections, because we know the ultimate victory has already been won by our Redeemer.

This guide follows the redemptive arc we see repeated throughout Scripture: order, rebellion, judgment, redemption. The first part focuses on God’s original, good purposes for procreating and parenting. The second asks parents tough questions about what it means to parent in a fallen world and with sin. The third hones in on our strategies for upholding standards in the way we deliver consequences and in the way we self-reflect and repent from our own sin. The last section talks about the redemption that only Christ can bring to our imperfect leadership.

Before we jump in, here is a survey to get us thinking about our individual households and get to know the needs of the group.

1. Before kids (or if you don’t have kids), what was your dream of parenting? Did you want children? Did you envision yourself parenting differently than you do? How did your kids blow your expectations out of the water?
2. What would you say your parenting style is? Authoritative, permissive, positive, disorganized?
3. What are your biggest struggles in parenting? How would you say your kids would grade you as a parent?

Challenge: Ask your kids to describe you as a parent. Take a note of where they speak the truth, and make ammends if needed. Then mentally or with your spouse give your household a grade based on how many positive, Christ-honoring experiences you are having as a family versus how many negative, sin nature-driven episodes in a week.