1. We have one Father in heaven (Ephesians 4:6). Clearly our relationship with Him is not the same as with our earthly parents (e.g. Matthew 23:9, Luke 11:11-13, Hebrews 12:3-11). What are some similarities and differences?
2. Exodus 20:12. Honor your mother and your father. This is the first commandment with a promise (Ephesians 6:1-4). What does it mean to honor your mother and father? What do Malachi 1:6-9 and Mark 7:6-13 show us about honor, how we treat God, and how we treat our parents? Do we use words, actions, attitude?
3. Does this mean that we have to always listen to our parents? Read Ezekiel 20:18-19 and Acts 5:29. Can parents be wrong? Read also Colossians 3:12-21. Who do we ultimately have allegiance to?
4. Look at Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 1:8. How are fathers and mothers called to be raising their children; to what purpose? Is this a reflection of how God raises us as His children (e.g. Hebrews 12:10)? What is God raising us for? See Ephesians 4:1-16. In this context, how do we honor our parents?
5. Do parents make mistakes? Read Colossians 3:21 and Ephesians 6:4. Why is there a specific warning? What happens when parents exasperate their children? Can parents harm their children (Jeremiah 19:1-5)? What to do then? Have you had conflict with your parents? What happened? Have you sought to restore damage? Is that always possible (Romans 12:18)?
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