Verse of the Day (Septermber 1, 2020) #BMSeminary – This proverb is not a sure formula for success in child rearing; it is an assurance of how profound a parent’s influence can be—though that influence might be rejected. The Proverbs provide reliable guidance but they do not address every contingency encountered in a sinful world. Wise parents invest in a child during the crucial, early years, because such care typically has godly results. But even the best parenting can result in a prodigal and a prideful son (Luke 15:11–32). Ultimately, the way a child “should go” (Prov. 22:6) is not a college or career choice but an eternal choice to live for God. Such a “way” is profoundly influenced by parents’ actions, but is ultimately determined by the child’s heart. “Train up” means to dedicate the child to God (cf. 1 Sam. 1:27–28; Eph. 6:4), so this proverb raises the question of the parent’s own commitment. The parent’s dedication is sustained by remembering that the Lord himself is committed to that family. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32). Once a Christian family is truly dedicated to the Lord, the practical questions of child rearing find their place. A wise parent is realistic about a child’s innate folly (Prov. 22:15). Something deep inside a child wants to demand its own way. But “the rod of discipline” will drive that folly out. Even so, our Father in heaven disciplines us all (Heb. 12:5–11), proving thereby that he cares about us. Wise parents discipline their children with the same love they themselves have received from their gracious heavenly Father. [Gospel Transformation Study Bible]
Verse of the Day (Septermber 1, 2020) #BMSeminary – This proverb is not a sure formula for success in child rearing; it is an assurance of how profound a parent’s influence can be—though that influence might be rejected. The Proverbs provide reliable guidance but they do not address every contingency encountered in a sinful world. Wise parents invest in a child during the crucial, early years, because such care typically has godly results. But even the best parenting can result in a prodigal and a prideful son (Luke 15:11–32). Ultimately, the way a child “should go” (Prov. 22:6) is not a college or career choice but an eternal choice to live for God. Such a “way” is profoundly influenced by parents’ actions, but is ultimately determined by the child’s heart. “Train up” means to dedicate the child to God (cf. 1 Sam. 1:27–28; Eph. 6:4), so this proverb raises the question of the parent’s own commitment. The parent’s dedication is sustained by remembering that the Lord himself is committed to that family. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32). Once a Christian family is truly dedicated to the Lord, the practical questions of child rearing find their place. A wise parent is realistic about a child’s innate folly (Prov. 22:15). Something deep inside a child wants to demand its own way. But “the rod of discipline” will drive that folly out. Even so, our Father in heaven disciplines us all (Heb. 12:5–11), proving thereby that he cares about us. Wise parents discipline their children with the same love they themselves have received from their gracious heavenly Father. [Gospel Transformation Study Bible]
Baptist Ministerial Seminary 