Locations & Times

Do you feel the pressure to get parenting "right"? Let's be honest—none of us truly know what we’re doing, and that's okay. This talk dives deep into the difference between being an owner versus an ambassador in our kids' lives. Are we trying to control everything, or are we stewarding what’s ultimately God’s? We explore the Shema and how it impacts our approach to parenting—our call to model faith, not perfection. The goal isn’t perfect kids; it’s raising followers of Jesus by showing them what true faith looks like, through both our successes and our stumbles.

Small Group Questions

Parenting

Karl Romeus
Sep 29th, 2024

// Bible References: Deut 6:1-9; 11:13-21; Matt 6:33; 7:11; 23:5; Prov 22:6; 1 John 4:19

// Community Question: What qualities does a “good parent” have?

// Discussion Questions

1. Read Deut 6:1-9. Karl emphasized that children will replicate what parents reflect and parents must impress our commitment to God on ourselves before teaching it to our children. What are some practical ways we can model our faith for our children, as suggested in the Shema? Reflect on your own actions and words; how can you improve the way you display your faith at home?
2. Karl pointed out that our vertical relationship with God must take priority in order to positively affect our horizontal relationships, including parenting. Why do you think God commands us to love Him with all our heart, soul, and might? How does this relate to our roles as parents? What struggles do you face in loving God fully, and how might addressing these make you a better role model for others?
3. Karl encouraged pointing kids to the church and being active participants, emphasizing the role of community in faith development. In the sermon, the importance of community is highlighted as a gift to give our children. Why is a supportive community crucial in nurturing faith? Can you think of a time when being part of a community impacted your faith? How can you help create a nurturing community for your children?
4. Karl indicated that parenting is less about making kids happy and more about guiding them towards their divine purpose. What does it mean to parent with the focus on holiness rather than happiness, as mentioned in the sermon? How might you change your parenting approach if you shifted your focus from making your child happy to helping them grow in their faith?

5. Karl noted that parenting involves understanding that children have their own choices to make and that there are no guarantees in how they will turn out. How should we respond when our children make choices that go against the values, we've taught them? What steps will you take to maintain your relationship with your child in the face of disagreement or poor choices?
   

// Challenge: Share with the group the best parenting advice you have heard. Since parenting is hard and everyone needs support, share one aspect of parenting that you could use prayer for this week.