Topical Encyclopedia The instruction of children is a significant theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of guiding the young in the ways of wisdom, righteousness, and faith. This responsibility is primarily placed upon parents, but it also extends to the broader community of faith, including teachers and spiritual leaders.Biblical Mandate The Bible provides clear directives for the instruction of children, underscoring its importance in the spiritual and moral development of the next generation. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7 , God commands the Israelites: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage highlights the continuous and pervasive nature of teaching, integrating it into daily life. Proverbs, a book rich in wisdom literature, frequently addresses the instruction of children. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse suggests that early and consistent instruction lays a foundation that endures throughout a person's life. Role of Parents Parents are seen as the primary instructors of their children, responsible for imparting both spiritual and practical wisdom. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers, "Do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse emphasizes a nurturing approach, combining discipline with instruction in the Lord's ways. The Old Testament also provides examples of parental instruction. In Proverbs 1:8 , the writer exhorts, "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother." This highlights the complementary roles of both parents in the educational process. Community and Church Involvement While parents hold the primary responsibility, the community of faith also plays a crucial role in the instruction of children. The church is called to support families in this endeavor, providing teaching and modeling godly behavior. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself welcomed children and emphasized their importance in the kingdom of God, as seen in Mark 10:14 : "When Jesus saw this, He was indignant and told them, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.'" The early church also recognized the importance of teaching children. Paul, in his letters to Timothy, acknowledges the role of Timothy's mother and grandmother in his spiritual upbringing (2 Timothy 1:5), demonstrating the impact of familial and communal instruction. Methods of Instruction The Bible suggests various methods for instructing children, including direct teaching, modeling, and discipline. Direct teaching involves the communication of biblical truths and principles, as seen in the Shema of Deuteronomy 6. Modeling is equally important, as children learn by observing the behavior and attitudes of adults. Paul encourages believers to imitate him as he imitates Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1), setting a standard for living out one's faith. Discipline is another aspect of instruction, intended to guide children toward righteousness. Proverbs 13:24 states, "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently." This reflects the belief that loving discipline is essential for a child's growth and development. Spiritual Formation The ultimate goal of instructing children is their spiritual formation and growth in the knowledge of God. Psalm 78:4 declares, "We will not hide them from their children, but will declare to the next generation the praises of the LORD and His might, and the wonders He has performed." This verse captures the essence of passing on the faith, ensuring that each generation knows and worships the Lord. In summary, the instruction of children is a vital biblical principle, encompassing the teaching of God's commandments, the modeling of godly behavior, and the nurturing of a child's spiritual life. Through the combined efforts of parents, the church, and the community, children are equipped to grow in wisdom and faith, continuing the legacy of faithfulness to God. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 10:2And that you may tell in the ears of your son, and of your son's son, what things I have worked in Egypt, and my signs which I have done among them; that you may know how that I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 12:26,27 Exodus 13:8-10,14-16 Deuteronomy 4:9,10 Deuteronomy 6:6-9 Deuteronomy 11:18-21 Deuteronomy 31:9-13 Joshua 8:35 Psalm 34:11 Psalm 78:5-8 Proverbs 20:7 Proverbs 22:6 Isaiah 38:19 Acts 22:3 Ephesians 6:4 2 Timothy 3:15 Greek 3811. paideuo -- to train children, to chasten, correct ... See the root 3816 (, "a child under strict instruction").]. Word Origin from pais Definition to train children, to chasten, correct NASB Word Usage correcting ( ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3811.htm - 8k 3809. paideia -- the rearing of a child, training, discipline 3807. paidagogos -- a trainer of boys, ie a tutor Library Psalm 78:1. First Part. Providence of God Recorded; Or, Pious ... The Ten Commandments of God. The Name Children Does not Imply Instruction in Elementary ... Instruction I The General Conference of 1832 Luke i. 3, 4 That it is the Prerogative of the Same Power to be Beneficent and ... The Story of Israel Crossing Jordan under Joshua is Typical of ... The Use of the Symbolic Style by Poets and Philosophers. Special Conference in virginia. Resources What is doctrine? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about Sunday school? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to preach the Word (2 Timothy 4:2)? | GotQuestions.org Instruction: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Instruction by Object Lessons: Basket of Figs Instruction by Object Lessons: Bonds and Yokes Instruction by Object Lessons: Eating and Drinking Sparingly Instruction by Object Lessons: Eating Bread Mixed With Dung Instruction by Object Lessons: Fringes on the Borders of Garments Instruction by Object Lessons: Illustrations on a Tile Instruction by Object Lessons: Lying on One Side in Public View for a Long Period Instruction by Object Lessons: Moving Household Goods Instruction by Object Lessons: Potter's Vessel Instruction by Object Lessons: Shaving the Head Instruction by Object Lessons: Sighing Instruction by Object Lessons: Symbolically Wearing Sackcloth and Going Barefoot Instruction by Object Lessons: The Boiling Pot Instruction by Object Lessons: The Linen Sash Instruction by Object Lessons: The Pillar of Twelve Stones at the Fords of the Jordan River Instruction by Object Lessons: The Pot of Manna Instruction by Object Lessons: Two Sticks Joined Together Instruction by Object Lessons: Widowhood Instruction: from the Study of Human Nature Instruction: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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