Topical Bible: Children: should be Judiciously Trained

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The Bible places significant emphasis on the judicious training of children, underscoring the importance of guiding them in the ways of righteousness and wisdom. This training is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate that carries profound implications for the spiritual and moral development of the next generation.

Biblical Mandate for Training

The scriptural foundation for the training of children is clearly articulated in Proverbs 22:6, which states, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse highlights the enduring impact of early instruction and the responsibility of parents and guardians to instill godly principles from a young age.

Parental Responsibility

Parents are seen as the primary educators and role models for their children. 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 the balance between discipline and nurturing, ensuring that children are raised in an environment that reflects the love and teachings of Christ.

The Role of Scripture

The Bible itself is a critical tool in the training of children. 2 Timothy 3:15-17 highlights the importance of Scripture in imparting wisdom: "And from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." This passage underscores the transformative power of God's Word in shaping a child's character and faith.

Discipline and Correction

Discipline is an integral part of training, as it helps children understand boundaries and the consequences of their actions. Proverbs 13:24 states, "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently." This proverb suggests that loving discipline is necessary for the well-being and moral development of a child.

Teaching by Example

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of leading by example. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs, "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 consistent nature of teaching, integrating God's commandments into daily life.

Community and Church Involvement

The role of the community and the church is also vital in the training of children. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as some have made a habit, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." The church community provides additional support and reinforcement of biblical values, offering a network of encouragement and accountability.

Conclusion

The judicious training of children is a multifaceted endeavor that requires intentionality, consistency, and reliance on biblical principles. Through the combined efforts of parents, Scripture, discipline, example, and community, children can be equipped to grow in faith and righteousness, fulfilling their God-given potential.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 22:15
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 29:17
Correct your son, and he shall give you rest; yes, he shall give delight to your soul.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ephesians 6:4
And, you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Laboring under Difficulties
... who neglected to provide such a training for their children were looked ... improving
the talents entrusted to them, the church should help them judiciously. ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 33 laboring under difficulties.htm

The City of the "Elegant Gate"[*]
... sites of their graves have not been judiciously selected, and ... They should be sent
out in multitudes if they ... instilled into the minds of the children and youth. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/fagg/forty years in south china/iii the city of the.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... the Athenians in their wake, ready to sustain the attack should they come ... breeze:
"Go, sons of Greece, deliver your country, deliver your children, your wives ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

Regeneration by Faith. Of Repentance.
... goodness of the cause; just as children not altogether ... Any one who judiciously considers
the matter will, I ... in a manner obscured what they should have regarded ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 3 regeneration by faith.htm

The General Conference of 1840
... be derived from such a course, judiciously formed in ... it necessary, for the preservation
of the children of our ... at which a liberal education should be afforded ...
/.../chapter 15 the general conference.htm