Sermon: The Godly Influence of Fathers

Walnut Grove

Sermon Date: 06/16/24

Bible Verses:

I. The Role of a Godly Father

• Ephesians 6:4: "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."
  • A godly father nurtures his children with patience and instruction.
  • Emphasize the importance of raising children in a loving and Christ-centered environment.
• Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."
  • The lasting impact of a father's guidance and teaching.
  • Encourage fathers to be intentional in their parenting, providing spiritual and moral direction.

II. The Example of a Godly Father

• Deuteronomy 6:6-7: "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
  • Fathers are called to live out their faith authentically, making it a daily part of their family life.
  • The importance of consistency and integrity in a father's actions and words.
• 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12: "For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory."
  • Fathers should encourage and challenge their children to live godly lives.
  • The balance of love, encouragement, and discipline in a father's relationship with his children.

III. The Heart of a Godly Father

• Psalm 103:13: "As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him."
  • Reflecting God's compassionate heart in the way fathers treat their children.
  • The importance of showing love, empathy, and understanding.
• Luke 15:20: "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him."
  • The parable of the prodigal son illustrates the unconditional love and forgiveness of a father.
  • Encourage fathers to be a source of grace and mercy, modeling God's forgiveness.

IV. The Influence of a Godly Father

• Proverbs 20:7: "The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!"
  • A father's integrity and righteousness leave a lasting legacy for his children.
  • The impact of a godly father extends beyond the immediate family to future generations.
• Joshua 24:15: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
  • The commitment of a father to lead his family in serving the Lord.
  • The importance of a father's leadership in spiritual matters and family worship.

Theme Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/hometown