PG: Week 3 The Divine Process of Parenting: Nurturing Faith and Character

PG: Parenting-Nurturing Faith and Character
Small Group Discussion Guide
based on sermon by Tim Bach 8/17/25

Opening Prayer
Prayer:
"Heavenly Father, we gather here today to seek Your wisdom and guidance as we discuss the important task of parenting. May Your Holy Spirit lead our conversation, open our hearts to understanding, and inspire us to reflect Your love in our families. Amen."

Scripture Readings
1. 3 John 1:4 – "I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth."
2. Colossians 3:21 – "Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart."
3. Hebrews 12:6 – "For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines..."
4. Ecclesiastes 4:10 – "...woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up."
5. Proverbs 4:1-11 – A passage emphasizing the value of wisdom and instruction.

Discussion Topics and Questions

1. The Call of Parenting
   - Discussion Topic: Understanding the divine purpose of parenting.
   - Questions:
     - How do you see parenting as a God-given call?
     - What does it mean to guide children in truth, as 3 John 1:4 suggests?

2. The Role of Communication
   - Discussion Topic: The importance of dialogue in raising children.
   - Questions:
     - Why do you think dialogue is essential in parenting?
     - How can 'Because I said so!' be harmful, and what are better alternatives?

3. Discipline vs. Punishment
   - *Discussion Topic:* Differentiating discipline from punishment.
   - Questions:
     - How can discipline be an act of love?
     - In what ways can punishment cause anger and rebellion, contrary to discipline?

4. Dependability and Support
   - *Discussion Topic:* Providing a consistent and supportive environment.
   - *Questions:
     - How does a stable family environment contribute to a child's well-being?
     - Reflect on Ecclesiastes 4:10 — how can we be there to 'catch' others when they fall?

5. Direction and Wisdom
   - Discussion Topic:* Imparting wisdom and direction.
   - Questions:
     - Why is acquiring wisdom vital for both parents and children?
     - How does Proverbs 4 inspire you to lead your family?

Follow-up Exercise
Exercise:  
Reflect on one area of parenting you want to improve (e.g., communication, discipline). Create a personal action plan to implement a change based on this discussion. Share it with a group member who can hold you accountable over the next month.

Closing Prayer
Prayer:  
"Lord, thank You for this time of reflection and sharing. We ask for Your continued guidance as we endeavor to parent with love, wisdom, and integrity. Help us to be patient and kind, modeling Your grace to our children. May our families reflect Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen."