I. Vocation

    In modernity, choice has replaced vocation.

II. The Christian Community

    The church exists as a community that helps people hear the call of God.

III. The Trinity

    The Trinity represents the community of God.

I.    Younger Son:  Irreligion, "being very bad" always leads to slavery.

II.   Older Son:  Religion, "being very good" is equally lost from the Father.

III.  True Repentance: realizing your idols and turning to God.

Introduction

I. God’s Word for the Children: Eph. 6:1-3; Col. 3:20

- Children’s obligation: -

          “Children, obey your parents in everything.”  Col. 3:20

     B. “Honor your father and mother.”   Eph. 6:2

          How?

II. God’s Word for the fathers:   Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:21

- Father’s responsibility: -

          - “Love your wife.” -  Eph. 5:33

     B. Love is basic to father-child relationship.

     C. Provision and protection

     D. Negatively: “Do not exasperate your children”,
         Positively:  “Bring them up in the training & instruction of the Lord”

1. Leading children to Christ, best when they are young.
2. Help them grow in Christ.
3. Training & discipline will be needed.
4. Pray for and with them.

Closing Words:  The Lord God is our Heavenly Father, Love Him, honor and obey Him, and serve Him!

Introduction:

I. WHAT ABOUT THESE PARENTS?

    A. Where did they come from?
         1.  Parents same as you
         2.  Places you are headed

    B. Why are they “hanging” around?
         1.  Provide & Protect (physical well-beling)
         2.  Inform & Instruct (spiritual well-being)
         3.  Train & Discipline (emotional well-being)

        *FACT:  They are God's Provision for your well-being

    C. What problems do they face?
         1.  Inexperience
         2.  Overcommitment
         3.  Guilt
         4.  Fear

         *So…

• cut them some slack
• gave them some credit

    A. What are your responsibilities?
        1.  Obey
        2.  Honor
        3.  Remember

    B. What problems you are facing!
        1.  Actions
            - 10 Commandments
        2.  Attitudes
            - the Be-attitudes
        3.  Associations
            - the Proverbs
        4.  Affiliations
            - The family of God

CONCLUSION