Almost 20 years ago my parents began the process that resulted in the adoption of my two sisters. One of the first steps in that process is the home study in which a counselor tests the family to see if it is healthy enough to care for an adopted child. What are your reasons for wanting a child? How do you plan to discipline your child? Are your other children happy and obedient?
In Ephesians 3:20–21 God conducts a home study. He asks the parents: “Are you training your children to love the Lord and find their joy in him? Might you, in any way, be provoking your children to discouragement?” He asks the children: “Do you treat your parents as God's heaven-sent ministers to care for your body and soul?” “Are you finding joy and contentment in godly obedience?” Parents and children should ask hard questions that can reveal if the gospel is shining in our families.
God speaks first to children. “Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.” Two initial observations. If you aren't a child you are part of the covenant community with obligations to other parents and children. If you are a child, notice that God is talking directly to you; in this letter and in this sermon. God addresses you as responsible people able to make moral choices. God cares about you and wants you to have a good life. Please, hear his command for you to live as he wants you to.
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