Teaching Others for Our Good and His Glory

Deuteronomy 6:5-25

 

Diligently Teach Them the Goodness of God (vv.5-9)

I am clearly aware that generations are not teaching the next generation about the things of Christ. May we experience a great revival in our nation and world tuned toward teaching our children and grandchildren about Christ. Parents still have the most influence. In fact, if dad is in love with Jesus and makes the things of Christ the priority, than chances are the family will come to Christ! Barna Group research states that only ¼ of believers come to Christ after age 21. This is why teaching children and youth both at home and here are so critical! 

This Old Testament passage is the heart of New Testament passages about teaching! Listen to 2 Tim. 2:2 “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others also.” Also listen to Matt. 28:20 “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you…” The same Greek word for teach is used in both verses as the intentional act of instructing others concerning the things of Christ!

What? To love God with all your heart, soul, and might. (v.5)

When? (v.7) a. while sitting b. while walking c. while lying down d. when awakening.  

How? (vv.8-9) They would placed little boxes containing verses 4-9 hanging from their headwear or attached to their arms as a reminder to do this task. They would also put them on their doorpost. We make think that this is a crazy idea, but think about putting sticky notes or note cards in your car or office with scripture. It allows you to meditate on it and to do it. This would have been the same way.

So we are to find ways to teach our children the things of Christ and to place reminders around your home to do this! Hobby Lobby will help supply some of these needs!  

Deliberately Teach Them to Have Gratitude for God’s Work (vv.10-19)

a. Through reflection (vv.10-12). We must reflect on the faithfulness of God and not forget.
b. Through a refusal to bow to other gods. (vv.13-16). Jesus quoted verse 13 to Satan in the wilderness. We see this Matt 4:10 and Luke 4:8.
c. 16 Massah was a place in Exodus 17:7 in which the Israelites complained and Moses stroke the rock. We are not to forsake, test, or lose hope in God’s work.

Delightfully Teach Them the Great Wonders of God and His Glory (vv.20-25)

Fathers, can’t you picture this? Your or daughter ask, “Dad, tell me about why you love Jesus so much?” Let this scripture passage come alive in us parents and grandparents, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15)

a. Remind them of God’s faithfulness (vv.20-24).
b. Reassure them of our righteousness through Jesus Christ (v.25).

Application

1. Make family scripture time and prayer a priority.
2. Make full use of church ministries a priority.
3. Share the gospel with your children always.
4. Be a Christ-like example.