Discussion Guide
Many of you have heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Whether you are currently raising children, have grown kids, hope to one day be a parent, or simply play a role in a child’s life as a mentor, relative, or friend—this conversation matters. Scripture shows us that children are deeply valued by God, and each of us has an opportunity to influence the next generation. Today we’ll explore what it looks like to put God first in how we shape, guide, and invest in young lives through relationships, discipline, and spiritual leadership.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. What's something you got in trouble for as a kid that you can laugh about now? What’s one rule you remember having growing up—and how did you feel about it?
2. Read Ephesians 6:4 (first half); Matthew 19:13-14. What do you think it means to not “provoke your children to anger”? Whether or not you have kids, how can you “delight” in the younger generation around you? When you think about “good parenting” or influence, what qualities come to mind?
3. Read Ephesians 6:4 (second half); Proverbs 3:12. How have you seen discipline done well—or poorly? What made the difference? Why is it important that discipline is rooted in love and not emotion? What might it look like to tailor discipline or guidance to an individual child or person?
4. Read Deuteronomy 6:5-7. What stands out to you about how faith is meant to be passed on in these verses? In the message we were reminded “faith isn’t inherited, it becomes personal.” Why is that important? What are some simple, practical ways to point your own children, or the next generation, toward Jesus?
Action Step: The goal is not perfect kids, but children who know Jesus and walk in truth. What is one intentional step you can take this week to invest in your child, a student, or a younger person in your life?
Optional - Deeper Dive: Read 1 Samuel 3:1-10. What role did Eli play in helping Samuel recognize God’s voice? What does this story teach us about helping others grow spiritually? Who helped you grow in your faith—and how can you do that for someone else?