There is no shortage of advice on how parents are to raise their children. We have sections of major bookstores dedicated to this goal, along with countless talk shows, and even reality shows like Super Nanny. Indeed our age is concerned with this tough assignment. So what is right? What works? And more importantly, what does God say about discipline and child raising?
This is the question that Dr. Lloyd-Jones aims to answer the book Raising Children God’s Way. The book is a series of sermons preached by Lloyd-Jones on Ephesians 6. Though he preached these sermons several decades ago there are many similarities with our current day; 1) God’s word is timeless and eternal, therefore the exposition of truth is just as valuable today as when the Dr. preached it; 2) the number of voices are just as prevalent in his day as our own; 3) we read of many of the seeds of thinking and parenting that have sprouted into much of the worldview that governs parenting and discipline today.
The book is relatively short (85 pages) but it is not short on biblical encouragement. I really enjoyed the chapter dealing with “Discipline and the Modern Mind.” In this chapter Lloyd-Jones interacts with the unbiblical thinking that has infiltrated many Christian families. This is nothing less than contemporary Psychology. Lloyd-Jones is balanced and biblical in his treatment of this issue. He repeatedly calls Christian parents to examine the basis for their worldview and practice.
In addition the chapters on “Submissive Children” and “Balanced Upbringing” are very helpful.
It is always good to hear good preaching. It is also good to read good preaching. I am thankful that the folks over at Banner of Truth have published this helpful little booklet on parenting to aid contemporary believers in their responsibility to be faithful and biblical parents.
You can read more about Raising Children God’s Way or pick up a copy for yourself at Westminster Books.