An Enormous Responsibility

Tom Moore

      Solomon declared, “I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths” (Proverbs 4:11). With regard to raising his son, Solomon involved himself in two very important items: he “taught” and “led.”

      “And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel” (Judges 2:10). This sad passage informs us that apostasy is only one generation away. Israel, during the time of Joshua, was probably in their greatest hour. But, evidently, during that exalted hour, they committed a serious error - they neglected the teaching of their children.

      We must TEACH our children in the ways of righteousness, for the well being of their soul depends on it! Paul instructs that we are to “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We are also commanded to “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Furthermore, Paul proclaimed, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1Timothy 4:16). The “hearing” mentioned implies that there was teaching being set forth. Our children are too precious, their souls too valuable, for us to neglect their instruction in the way of righteousness.

      An area in which many parents fall short is their failure to be a good example – they teach but fail to LEAD in the right path. Concerning the Pharisees, our Lord said, “All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not” (Matthew 23:3). Many parents, by their actions, proclaim, “Do as I say – not as I do.” But Jesus said, “Even so let your light shine before men [or, your children in this case]; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). It is imperative that we understand that our children learn more from our example than any verbal instruction that we could ever give them.

      If you want your children to be faithful – THEN YOU BE FAITHFUL! If you want your children to be good Bible students – you be a good Bible student! If you want your children to lead righteous lives – you lead a righteous life! If you want your children to love the blood-bought church – then you love the church! If you want you children to go to heaven – then SHOW them the way! Our children will never be willing to go where we ourselves are willing to go. More than likely, our children will grow up to be just like us. This being said, how faithful will our children be when they become adults?

      Please set forth the greatest possible effort to teach and lead your children in the ways of righteousness. No caring parent will want to see his or her children spend an eternity in a burning hell. Parents, you have only one chance to raise your children – do it well!