Topical Encyclopedia Child support, while a modern legal term, finds its roots in biblical principles concerning the care and provision for one's family. The Bible emphasizes the responsibility of parents to provide for their children, ensuring their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.Biblical Foundation The concept of providing for one's family is deeply embedded in Scripture. In 1 Timothy 5:8 , the Apostle Paul writes, "If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." This verse underscores the importance of fulfilling familial obligations, which includes the financial support of one's children. Parental Responsibility The Bible consistently highlights the duty of parents to care for their offspring. Proverbs 13:22 states, "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is passed to the righteous." This proverb suggests that a righteous person not only provides for their immediate children but also considers the welfare of future generations. Furthermore, Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." While this verse primarily addresses spiritual upbringing, it implies a holistic approach to parenting, which includes meeting the material needs of children. Justice and Fairness The Bible also speaks to the principles of justice and fairness, which are relevant to the concept of child support. In Micah 6:8 , it is written, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Ensuring that children receive adequate support from both parents aligns with the biblical call to act justly and mercifully. Divorce and Separation While the Bible upholds the sanctity of marriage, it also acknowledges the reality of divorce and separation. In such cases, the responsibility to support one's children remains. Malachi 2:16 states, "For I hate divorce, says the LORD, the God of Israel," yet the welfare of children must be prioritized even in the dissolution of marriage. Community Support The early Christian community exemplified mutual support and care, as seen in Acts 2:44-45 : "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." While this passage describes communal living, it reflects the broader biblical principle of supporting those in need, including children. Conclusion In summary, while the term "child support" is not explicitly found in the Bible, the principles of providing for one's family, acting justly, and ensuring the well-being of children are deeply rooted in Scripture. These principles guide believers in fulfilling their responsibilities to their children, regardless of marital status. Topical Bible Verses Ephesians 6:1Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Topicalbible.org Proverbs 22:6 Proverbs 13:24 Library Simeon's "Sign that Should be Contradicted," Applied to the ... Further Exposition of the Heresy of the Naasseni; Profess to ... The Child of the Woman in the Apocalypse not Christ, but the ... The Choice of Pursuits. On the Management of the Resources Collected for the Support of ... On the Unutterable Heart-Rending Grief of the Pure Queen of Heaven ... The Church and Other Rural Agencies The Child-Life in Nazareth The Character and Supports of Widows Indeed. Our Status. Resources How should Christian parents handle the death of a child? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to "spare the rod, spoil the child"? | GotQuestions.org Is the inner child a biblical concept? | GotQuestions.org Child: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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