Jesus Loves Families

The Bible teaches that discipline is not merely about punishment but is rooted in love and so dedicated to instruction and training in the constant direction of righteousness. No parents will discipline their children properly unless they continually strive to follow Scripture’s guidance in raising children in a way that honors God. The Old Testament’s Wisdom Literature arguably lays the foundation of direct wise instruction about parental discipline. Fo r instance, Proverbs 22:6 instructs, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This passage emphasizes the importance of early and consistent training. Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.” This verse highlights the fact that it is highly likely that an undisciplined child will grow up to be an undisciplined adult, which is a sinner doomed to a rough life and, perhaps, even worse eternal destiny. Any parent who w...

I wrestled in prayer for years, trying to become like an ancient "son of Issachar." They "understood the times and knew what Israel should do" (1 Chr 12:32 NET), so they wisely supported King David. Today's "sons of Issachar" understand AD 2024 and know what the church and Christian families should do. The church is "spiritual Israel," continuing the storyline and covenants we read about in the Old Testament. Fulfilled in Christ, they now find expression through the New Covenant in His blood. Israel's mission was to bring Christ into the world. Ours is to bring Him back (2 Pet 3:11–12). This is fundamental. Jesus is King and the loyalty of the world, church, family, marriage, and individual is due Him. Humanity's duty at all these levels is to serve Him faithfully and loyally. Only when individuals are faithful will marriages and families be. The church cannot be unified and focused on the mission if the member families are broken. An...