Written By
Desmond Milligan
Parenting is not only about nurturing children physically and emotionally but also about guiding them spiritually. In this chapter, we expand on the foundations of parenting by highlighting what Scripture says about children, the importance of teaching them God’s Word, and the lessons Jesus Himself gave about children and the kingdom of heaven. Parenting is a sacred responsibility, and when we understand how God views children, we can better fulfill our role as parents.
Discipline and Guidance
Discipline is essential for teaching children responsibility and respect. However, discipline should never be about anger or control, it is about guidance.
Hebrews 12:11 says: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
This verse reminds parents that discipline, though difficult, produces lasting fruit. Good parenting requires patience and consistency, knowing that the effort invested today will shape the character of tomorrow.
What Jesus Said About Children
Jesus valued children deeply and used them as examples of faith and purity.
- Matthew 19:14: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
- Mark 9:37: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.”
Jesus elevated children, showing that their innocence, humility, and trust reflect the qualities God desires in His people.
Children and the Kingdom of Heaven
Jesus taught that children are central to understanding the kingdom of heaven.
- Matthew 18:3: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Children embody humility, trust, and dependence. To enter God’s kingdom, adults must adopt these qualities, laying aside pride and embracing childlike faith.
Why We Must Become Like Children
Children trust without hesitation, forgive quickly, and depend fully on their parents. Jesus used this as a spiritual lesson:
- Humility: Children do not boast of achievements; they simply receive love.
- Trust: Children rely on their parents for provision, just as believers must rely on God.
- Purity of heart: Children approach life with sincerity, reminding us to keep our faith genuine.
Parents must model this childlike faith to their children, showing them that dependence on God is the foundation of life.
Why Parents Must Teach Children the Word of God
Teaching children God’s Word is not optional it is a command.
- Deuteronomy 6:6–7: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
Parents are the first teachers of faith. By reading Scripture, praying together, and living out biblical values, parents plant seeds of faith that will grow into lifelong devotion.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 18:3
The Story Jesus Told About Children
One of the most powerful moments in the Gospels is when Jesus placed a child among His disciples:
- Matthew 18:2–4: “He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’”
This story illustrates that greatness in God’s kingdom is not about power or status but humility and childlike faith.
Miracles Jesus Did Involving Children
Jesus performed several miracles involving children, showing His compassion and power:
- Healing Jairus’ daughter: Jesus raised a 12-year-old girl from the dead (Mark 5:41–42).
- Healing the demon-possessed boy: Jesus delivered a child tormented by an evil spirit (Mark 9:25–27).
- Healing the official’s son: Jesus healed a boy from a distance (John 4:50–53).
- Blessing children: Jesus laid His hands on children and blessed them (Mark 10:16).
These miracles demonstrate Jesus’ love for children and His desire to restore them to health and life.
Parenting Applications
- Parents must discipline with love, remembering Hebrews 12:11.
- Parents must welcome children as Jesus did, valuing their presence and voices.
- Parents must teach children God’s Word daily, as commanded in Deuteronomy 6:6–7.
- Parents must model humility and faith, becoming like children themselves.
- Parents must trust God’s provision and reflect His compassion in their parenting.
Conclusion
Children are a gift from God and a reflection of His kingdom. Parenting is not only about raising responsible adults but about nurturing souls for eternity. Jesus’ teachings and miracles remind us that children hold a special place in God’s heart.
As parents, we must discipline with love, teach God’s Word faithfully, and embrace childlike faith ourselves. In doing so, we build strong foundations for our families and honor God’s design for parenting.
