What is the ultimate goal of parenting, and how can we effectively guide our children toward it?

Jeffrey D. Johnson emphasizes that the ultimate goal of parenting is a divine task beyond our own capabilities. While it is God who must save our children, parents are called to guide them through preaching, evangelizing, praying, and engaging in family worship. These efforts are made with hope, trusting that God will work in their lives. Parents are tasked with sowing seeds of faith and optimism, investing in their children's spiritual growth.

Alongside nurturing, parents must also protect their children, much like shepherds guarding their flock. Children lack the discernment necessary to navigate the world's temptations and deceptions. As such, parents must guide them, shaping their conscience and teaching them self-control. The goal is to prepare them for independence, equipping them with wisdom and spiritual maturity to make sound decisions, including the responsible use of technology and freedom.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

What happens when the kingdoms of men wage war against the Church of Jesus Christ?

Kevin Swanson addresses this question by highlighting historical instances where secular powers have attempted to suppress the Church, only to see it flourish. For example, despite Mao Tse-tung's efforts in the 1950s to eradicate Christianity, the number of believers in that nation has grown exponentially, from 600,000 to about 90 million. This remarkable growth illustrates that worldly powers are ultimately powerless against the divine kingdom.

Swanson also discusses the decline of Western empires that once stood on Christian foundations. As these nations have turned away from Christ, their civilizations have begun to crumble, much like a building collapsing when its foundation is destroyed. He emphasizes the importance of restoring these Christian foundations and challenges the current generation to plant seeds of faith amidst the ruins of Western civilization.

Matthew 16:18 (NKJV): "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it."

Why is it crucial for parents to disciple their children towards Christ for the future of the church?

Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the responsibility of parents who, by God's grace, have been blessed with children. He stresses the importance of actively discipling them, aiming to guide their character development and point them to faith in Jesus Christ. This foundational step is crucial as these children are the future bearers of the church's mission, comprising individuals and families committed to God's work within and beyond their generation.

Furthermore, Mbewe highlights the significance of laying a strong foundation for a future church enriched with robust families. This preparation is not only for the present generation but also for those yet to come. By instilling faith and values in our children, we build a church capable of enduring and thriving in the years ahead. The goal is to ensure a vibrant, faith-filled community that continues to grow and reflect Christ's teachings in every aspect of life.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

How should Christians interpret the relentless stream of troubling news we encounter daily?

Alexander Strauch addresses the pressing issue of how believers should approach the often grim news that permeates our media. He notes that even those outside the Christian faith recognize the pervasive negativity, marked by wars and threats of greater conflict, including the looming fear of atomic war. In such times, it's easy to be overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. However, Strauch reminds us that Christians are called to a different response. We are not to be a fearful people because our Lord is in control and is actively working, even in the midst of chaos. The trials and troubles we see may be God's active judgment, which we should acknowledge soberly.

Despite the daunting circumstances, Christians are encouraged to rejoice in the Lord and trust in His sovereignty. Strauch draws a parallel to the Israelites in Babylon, where God commanded them to build houses, marry, and continue living productive lives. In the same way, we are not to be passive or consumed by fear. Instead, we should engage with the world actively, doing good, and living out our faith in tangible ways. This perspective shifts our focus from despair to hope and action, rooted in the knowledge of God's active presence and purpose in the world.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV): "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

How can we integrate the local church with family life in a way that honors God's redemptive purposes?

Brian Borgman emphasizes the essential role of the local church in God's plan for redemption. Regardless of the stage of life we are in—whether we are young parents, seasoned grandparents, or anyone in between—the church remains central to our lives. The local church not only facilitates our spiritual growth but also provides a nurturing environment where families can flourish. It's important to recognize that our involvement in the church is not just a weekly obligation but a vital part of God's design for our lives.

Borgman further suggests that families should prioritize the local church as a place of belonging and spiritual enrichment. He highlights the importance of teaching children that church attendance is not merely a task but an integral part of their identity in Christ. By modeling this understanding, parents can instill a lasting appreciation for the church in their children, presenting it as a community where they can grow and learn. The aim is to make the local church a joyful and fulfilling place, akin to the happiest place on earth.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV): "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."

Have you ever considered how the way you schedule your life reflects your priorities?

Jason Dohm challenges us to reevaluate how we organize our time, emphasizing that our involvement in the local church should not be an afterthought. Instead of fitting church into the gaps of our busy lives, we ought to structure our schedules around it. This prioritization stems from recognizing the mutual need between us and the local church. We benefit from the spiritual nourishment and community it provides, while the church thrives with the active participation and support of its members.

Dohm encourages us to view the local church as a central element in our family life, reflecting its significance through our actions rather than mere words. By consciously making church a priority, we honor the sacrifice of Christ, who died for the church. This commitment is not just about personal gain but about contributing to a greater community that also supports us in our walk with Christ.

Hebrews 10:25 (NKJV): "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."

How should we live as God's people in a world that is not our own?

Tom Ascol, in his discussion on Jeremiah's letter to the exiles in Babylon, reminds us that we are created in the image of God and live in His world. Our primary responsibility remains to glorify God by exercising dominion, a task given to humanity since the Garden of Eden. This calling does not change with our environment; rather, it challenges us to determine how best to fulfill it wherever we are.

Jeremiah's letter to the Israelites in Babylon emphasizes the importance of remembering our identity as God's people. Despite being in a foreign land, they were called to honor God through their daily lives. This involves engaging with the world around us while upholding our commitment to God's principles. Our actions in any setting should reflect our devotion to Him, reinforcing our role as His representatives.

Colossians 3:23 (NKJV): "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men."

How should Christians respond when government orders conflict with their faith?

Scott Aniol discusses the biblical understanding of human government as an institution ordained by God. According to Genesis 9, God established government through His covenant with Noah to maintain peace and order in society, preventing chaos. While government plays a vital role in societal interactions, its authority has specific boundaries. This authority is limited to ensuring societal order and does not extend to the redemptive kingdom of God, which is the jurisdiction of the local church.

Christians are called to submit to government authorities as long as the laws align with God's ordained jurisdiction. However, when the government oversteps its boundaries and begins to encroach on matters pertaining to the church, believers must follow the example of the apostles in Acts 5, prioritizing obedience to God over men. Christians must navigate these situations with grace and humility, striving to lead peaceful lives while remaining steadfast in their faith when government demands conflict with God's commands.

Romans 13:1 (NKJV): "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."

How should the church view children in light of biblical teaching?

Robert Bosley emphasizes the need for the church to embrace the biblical perspective on children, recognizing them as blessings and gifts from the Lord. This viewpoint aligns with the dominion mandate seen in Genesis and reiterated to Noah after the flood. While some may think the Great Commission has replaced this mandate, Bosley argues that both are essential. The goal is to fill the earth with people who love and worship God, combining the call to be fruitful and multiply with the mission to make disciples.

Bosley also addresses the cultural disdain for children, advocating for a reaffirmation of the goodness of having families. While raising children is not always easy, it is a significant way of filling the world with God's image bearers. He challenges the notion that having children is prohibitively expensive, suggesting that it's possible to raise children without succumbing to materialistic pressures. Encouraging larger families reflects the historical and scriptural image of Christian families, aiming for more than just the minimalistic view prevalent in today's culture.

Psalm 127:3 (NKJV): "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward."

Why does God's kingdom often seem small or insignificant in the eyes of the world?

Pooyan Mehrshahi sheds light on the parable of the mustard seed to illustrate the potential for growth within God's kingdom, despite its seemingly minor presence. Like the mustard seed, which starts small but grows into a substantial tree, the Gospel's influence can expand and flourish, even when embraced by a minority. This growth is not dependent on worldly power or size but is driven by God's sovereign plans and timing, offering Christians assurance that their efforts, no matter how small, can yield great results.

This parable encourages believers to persist in spreading the Gospel, trusting that God will bring about growth and transformation according to His will. As Christians sow the seeds of the Gospel through preaching, distributing literature, and living out their faith, they can rest assured that God's power is at work, ultimately fulfilling His redemptive purpose across the globe. Though believers may often feel like a minority, they are reminded that with God, they are the majority, and His kingdom will prevail.

Isaiah 11:9 (NKJV): "They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea."