"What Shall We Teach Our Children?"

BIBLICAL LANGUAGE

Throughout life one is faced with many challenges, but none can compare to the training of children. Book store shelves are filled with self help material on helping parents train children. There are many excellent books to help parents in training of children, but one must never forget that the greatest manual on the home is the Bible! Peter informs us: "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness..." ( 2 Peter 1:3).

It is the fervent prayer of every Christian that their children obey the gospel, and remain faithful to the Lord. John expresses the heart’s desire of parents in 3 John 3-4, "For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." If children aren’t properly trained in the Lord’s way they will be, "...tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive." (Eph. 4:14).

The most precious commodity you can give your children is your time! There is a song that swells the heart with fond days of years gone by - Precious Memories. Mom, dad, burn into the hearts of your children evenings spent in praying and studying God’s word. Such precious memories will remain with them throughout life. Without question, as a child of God, you want to see every precious soul obey the gospel of Christ - especially those of your own household!!! So take the time to teach your children the truth about:

There are several factors which have contributed to the break down of our Biblical language: (1) Lack of teaching in the home, perhaps even pulpits and classrooms, (2) Close association with denominational friends and relatives, (3) Many cross over and attend denominational services on a regular basis, (4) Watching denominational programs on television, (5) Reading denominational books, and (6) A failure to properly study the Bible.

Not only must one "Take heed therefore how ye hear..." (Luke 8:18), but also "Take heed what ye hear..." (Mk. 4:24)!! It is very common to hear members of the church use denominational language. I do not know the author of the chart on the next page, but it clearly sets forth the truth about what we should and should not say.

An interesting exercise would be to take the chart and ask your children questions. This will give you a good place to start teaching them "sound words" (2 Tim. 1:13)! Remember the different between the Lord’s church and denominationalism really does make the different. The difference being saved and being lost!

–Ivie Powell