Building Strong Homes on the Foundation of Christ

 

Summary

“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” This question from the Psalms echoes through our time, as the very foundation of society—the home—faces unprecedented challenges. We live in a world where the foundations seem out of course, where families are stumbling in darkness, and where the pressures of life often threaten to tear homes apart. Yet, there is hope and light in Jesus Christ, who alone can restore and strengthen the home.

The story of my own family, and especially the faith and steadfastness of my wife Ruth, testifies to the power of a Christ-centered home. Her parents, medical missionaries in China, built their home on daily prayer, Scripture, and lived faith, leaving a legacy that shaped generations. Even in times of suffering and adversity, their love and commitment to each other and to God never wavered. This is the kind of foundation every home needs.

Many today find marriage and family life difficult, and the statistics on broken homes are sobering. But research shows that where Christ is at the center—where there is Bible reading, prayer, and church attendance—the rate of divorce drops dramatically. The answer to the crisis in our homes is not found in human wisdom or fleeting emotions, but in building on the solid rock of Jesus Christ.

A successful home is founded on several key pillars. First, marriage itself is a divine institution, meant to be a lifelong commitment, not just a romantic feeling. Second, spiritual practices—prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship—must be woven into the fabric of daily life. Third, the roles of husband and wife are not about domination or competition, but about sacrificial love, faithfulness, and mutual respect. Fourth, children need both love and discipline, held in balance, and above all, the example of parents who live out their faith. Even when children rebel, persistent love and godly example can draw them back.

No matter your past or present circumstances, it is never too late to build or rebuild your home on Christ. If you did not grow up in a Christian home, you can start a new legacy for your children. If your family is broken, God can restore and heal. The invitation is open: come to Christ, bring your family to Him, and let Him be the foundation of your home.

Key Takeaways

- The foundation of the home determines the strength of society. When homes are built on Christ, they can withstand the storms of life—sorrow, temptation, adversity, and even tragedy. Without this foundation, families are vulnerable to collapse, but with Christ, there is hope for restoration and endurance. [00:09]

- Commitment in marriage is more than a feeling; it is a covenant before God. Physical attraction and romance may fade, but a lifelong commitment, rooted in Christ, carries couples through seasons of stress, disappointment, and difficulty. This kind of commitment is a testimony to the world and a source of stability for children. [11:14]

- Spiritual practices in the home—prayer, Bible reading, and worship—are not optional extras but essential disciplines. These practices shape the hearts of both parents and children, creating an environment where faith is lived, not just taught. The daily rhythms of spiritual life anchor the family in God’s truth and presence. [12:20]

- The roles of husband, wife, and children are each vital and interdependent. Husbands are called to love sacrificially, wives to devote themselves to their families, and children to respond with obedience and respect. When each member seeks Christ and fulfills their calling, the home becomes a place of harmony, growth, and blessing. [13:43]

- God’s grace can redeem even the most broken families. No matter how far a family has drifted, or how deep the wounds, Christ offers forgiveness, healing, and a new beginning. Testimonies of restored families remind us that it is never too late to turn to God and experience His transforming power in the home. [21:25]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:09] - The Foundations of Society and the Home
[01:05] - Ruth’s Testimony: A Legacy of Faith
[02:34] - The Power of a Christian Example
[05:14] - The Crisis in Modern Homes
[06:35] - Stress, Tragedy, and the Breaking of Families
[07:32] - Building on the Foundation of Christ
[08:19] - Jesus and the Family
[09:17] - Household Salvation and Spiritual Birth
[10:23] - Starting Marriage with Christ
[11:00] - The Divine Order of Marriage
[12:20] - Spiritual Practices in the Home
[13:43] - The Roles of Husband, Wife, and Children
[16:21] - Love and Discipline in Parenting
[18:01] - The Call to Respond as a Family
[19:25] - Testimony of a Restored Family
[22:04] - Invitation to Commit to Christ
[24:40] - Commitment and Prayer for Viewers
[26:35] - Closing and Further Resources

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Building a Christ-Centered Home

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### Bible Reading

- Psalm 11:3
“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?”

- Psalm 82:5
“They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.”

- Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children…”

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### Observation Questions

1. In Psalm 11:3, what is the “foundation” that the psalmist is talking about? How does the sermon connect this idea to the home? ([00:09])
2. According to the sermon, what daily spiritual practices did Ruth’s parents build into their home, and what impact did this have on their family? ([02:55])
3. What does Deuteronomy 6:6-7 say parents are supposed to do with God’s commands? How does this relate to the idea of a Christ-centered home?
4. The sermon mentions that when Christ is at the center of the home, the rate of divorce drops dramatically. What specific practices are mentioned as making a difference? ([07:56])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” How does this question challenge us to think about the current state of families and society? ([00:09])
2. Ruth’s family faced many hardships, yet their faith and commitment to God never wavered. What does this suggest about the role of faith in facing adversity within the home? ([02:55])
3. The sermon describes marriage as a covenant, not just a feeling. Why is this distinction important for the stability of the home? ([11:14])
4. The speaker says that even if someone did not grow up in a Christian home, they can start a new legacy. What does this mean for people who feel their family background is broken or lacking? ([04:26])

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us to examine the foundation of our own homes. What is your home currently built on—tradition, feelings, or Christ? What would it look like to rebuild your home on Christ, starting this week? ([07:32])
2. Ruth’s parents made prayer, Bible reading, and lived faith a daily part of their home. What is one specific spiritual practice you could start or strengthen in your family this week? ([02:55])
3. The sermon says that commitment in marriage is more than a feeling; it’s a covenant. If you are married, what is one way you can show sacrificial love or renewed commitment to your spouse this week? If you are not married, how can you support or encourage marriages around you? ([11:14])
4. The speaker talks about the balance of love and discipline with children. If you are a parent, in what area do you need to grow—showing more love, or being more consistent with discipline? What is one step you can take? ([16:43])
5. The sermon says it is never too late to start a new legacy or to rebuild a broken home. Is there a relationship in your family that needs healing or restoration? What is one action you can take this week to move toward reconciliation? ([21:25])
6. The sermon mentions that spiritual practices are not optional extras but essential disciplines. What is one obstacle that keeps you from making prayer or Bible reading a regular part of your home life? How can you overcome it? ([12:20])
7. The speaker invites families to come to Christ together. If your family is not united in faith, what is one way you can gently encourage spiritual conversations or prayer in your home? ([18:01])

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help each person build or rebuild their home on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ, and to give strength, wisdom, and love for every relationship in the family.

Devotional

Day 1: Building Your Home on a Solid Foundation

The strength of a home is determined by the foundation upon which it is built. In a world where the foundations of society seem to be crumbling and families are facing unprecedented challenges, it is vital to ask: what is your home built upon? When storms of sorrow, temptation, or adversity come, only a home established on the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ will stand firm. Social trends and fleeting pleasures cannot provide the stability and hope that Christ offers. If you desire a home that endures, begin by making Christ the cornerstone, inviting His presence, wisdom, and peace into every aspect of your family life. [00:09]

Psalm 11:3 (ESV)
"If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?"

Reflection: What is one practical way you can invite Christ to be the foundation of your home today, whether through prayer, conversation, or a new family habit?


Day 2: Passing On Faith Through Example

A Christian home is not just taught but lived out daily. The most powerful influence on children and grandchildren is the consistent example of faith, love, and prayer demonstrated by parents and grandparents. Even in times of hardship, such as illness or adversity, the legacy of faith is built through daily practices—family prayers, Scripture reading, and loving discipline. If you did not grow up in a Christian home, you can begin a new legacy for your family and those around you by living out your faith authentically and intentionally. [03:19]

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV)
"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."

Reflection: What is one faith practice you can start or strengthen in your home this week to help pass on your faith to the next generation?


Day 3: Commitment and Sacrifice in Marriage

A successful home is founded on a divinely ordered marriage, marked by lifelong commitment and sacrificial love. Physical attraction alone cannot sustain a marriage through the inevitable difficulties and stresses of life; it is the deep commitment to one another, modeled after Christ’s love for the church, that carries couples through. This commitment means choosing faithfulness, serving one another, and refusing to give up even when times are hard. Such love is not domineering but gentle, like a conductor guiding a symphony, and it brings joy and stability to the home. [11:14]

Ephesians 5:25 (ESV)
"Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."

Reflection: In what specific way can you show sacrificial love and renewed commitment to your spouse (or a close family member) today?


Day 4: The Power of New Birth and Household Salvation

Jesus taught that entry into God’s family is through new birth—being born again by repentance and faith. This spiritual transformation is not just for individuals but can bring salvation and healing to entire households. When one person in a family turns to Christ, it often leads to a ripple effect, drawing others to faith and restoring broken relationships. No matter your family’s past or present struggles, God’s grace can bring new beginnings, unity, and peace to your home when you surrender your life to Him. [09:29]

John 3:3 (ESV)
"Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'"

Reflection: Who in your family or circle of influence needs to hear about the hope of new life in Christ, and how can you share your faith story with them this week?


Day 5: Love and Discipline—Raising Children in Christ

Children thrive in homes where love and discipline are held in balance. The Bible calls parents to train up their children in the way they should go, not just by instruction but by living as examples of Christ’s love and truth. Even when children rebel or stray, persistent love and godly discipline can draw them back. The promise is that seeds of faith planted in childhood will bear fruit in time. If you are a parent, grandparent, or mentor, your influence matters—never underestimate the power of your example and prayers in shaping the next generation. [17:03]

Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)
"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."

Reflection: Is there a child or young person in your life who needs more of your loving attention or guidance? What is one intentional step you can take to encourage or disciple them this week?

Quotes

IF THE FOUNDATIONS BE DESTROYED, AND THE FOUNDATION OF ANY SOCIETY IS THE HOME. AND THEN A VERSE THAT GOES WITH IT, 82ND PSALM, THESE WORDS, "THEY KNOW NOT, NEITHER WILL THEY UNDERSTAND. "THEY WALK ON IN DARKNESS, "ALL THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE WORLD ARE OUT OF COURSE." DOESN'T THAT SOUND LIKE OUR DAY? ALL THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH ARE OUT OF COURSE, AND WE'RE WALKING IN DARKNESS, WE'RE STUMBLING. JESUS SAID, "I'M THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD," AND HE COULD BRING LIGHT. [00:00:22]

IN 1916, MY PARENTS LANDED IN SHANGHAI, CHINA, AND SPENT THE NEXT 25 YEARS OF THEIR LIVES SERVING THE PEOPLE OF CHINA AS MEDICAL MISSIONARIES. IT WASN'T EASY, THOSE WERE TROUBLED TIMES, WITH WARS, DISEASE, BANDITS, FLOODS AND FAMINE, AND YET, BECAUSE OF THEM WE NEVER KNEW WHAT FEAR WAS. DAILY IN THE HOME, THERE WERE FAMILY PRAYERS, WITH HYMNS, AND SCRIPTURE READING, AND PRAYER. WE WERE LOVINGLY DISCIPLINED. WE WERE CAREFULLY TRAINED. BUT, NOT ONLY DID MOTHER AND DADDY TEACH THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IN THE HOME, THEY LIVED IT. [00:02:39]

AND AS A CONSEQUENCE, IT WAS EASY AS A CHILD TO GIVE MY HEART TO THE LORD JESUS. LATER THEY CAME TO THE STATES, AND WE HAD THE JOY OF LIVING BESIDE THEM FOR THE LAST 25 YEARS OF THEIR LIVES. AND BECAUSE OF THEIR CHRISTIAN EXAMPLE, OUR FIVE CHILDREN WERE TREMENDOUSLY INFLUENCED. AND, DUE IN GOOD PART TO THEM, THEY TOO GAVE THEIR HEARTS TO THE LORD JESUS. I REMEMBER THE LAST YEAR OF HIS LIFE, DADDY WAS ELECTED MODERATOR OF OUR CHURCH. NOW HE WASN'T WELL AT THAT TIME HIMSELF, AND MY MOTHER HAD HAD A STROKE AND WAS IN A WHEELCHAIR. [00:03:29]

BUT ONE MORNING I WENT DOWN TO CHECK ON THEM, AND DADDY WAS ON HIS KNEES IN FRONT OF MOTHER, HELPING HER PUT ON HER STOCKINGS, AND HE GLANCED UP AT ME OVER HIS GLASSES AND HE SAID, "YOU KNOW, THESE ARE THE GREATEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES. "CARING FOR YOUR MOTHER HAS BEEN THE GREATEST PRIVILEGE OF MY LIFE." AND THE THING WAS, HE REALLY MEANT IT. AND SO, I THANK GOD TONIGHT FOR A CHRISTIAN HOME, AND FOR WHAT IT HAS MEANT TO ME, TO OUR CHILDREN, AND IF YOU HAVEN'T HAD A CHRISTIAN HOME, YOU CAN GIVE YOUR CHILDREN A CHRISTIAN HOME. [00:04:15]

I THINK ALL OF US ARE AWARE THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH OUR HOMES. SOMEONE HAS SAID THAT ALL WEDDINGS ARE HAPPY. IT'S THE LIVING TOGETHER AFTERWARD THAT CAUSES ALL THE TROUBLE, AND THERE'S SOME TRUTH TO THAT. AN AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGIST SAYS, "MARRIAGE IS A QUIET HELL FOR ABOUT HALF OF ALL AMERICAN COUPLES." NOW WHAT IS WRONG? CAN THE TIDE BE REVERSED? BECAUSE THE SAME COULD BE SAID, PERHAPS, ABOUT THE UNITED KINGDOM, OR IRELAND, WHEREVER PEOPLE ARE WATCHING OR LISTENING. AND I WANT TO ASK YOU THIS QUESTION ON THE SCRIPTURE THAT WE READ. IS YOUR HOME BUILT ON A SOLID FOUNDATION? [00:05:24]

WHEN FLOODS OF SORROW COME, OR THE WAVES OF TEMPTATION, OR THE GALES OF ADVERSITY; OF WAR, DEATH OR JUDGEMENT STRIKE, WILL YOUR HOME STAND? IS THE FOUNDATION STRONG? SOCIAL RESEARCHERS ARE FINDING THAT IN TIMES OF STRESS, RATHER THAN BRINGING FAMILIES TOGETHER, MANY MARRIAGE PARTNERS FIND IT EASIER TO FLEE FROM THE STRUGGLE, WITH THE OVERWHELMING EMOTIONS THAT FAMILY TRAGEDIES GENERATE. ONE OF OUR MOST FAMOUS FAMILIES GOT INVOLVED IN A TERRIBLE TRAGEDY A FEW YEARS AGO. THEIR DAUGHTER WAS KIDNAPPED. AND THEY STUCK TOGETHER, AND THEY PRAYED TOGETHER, AND THEY WORKED TOGETHER, AND THEY PAID OUT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, AND FINALLY SHE WAS RESCUED; AFTER ABOUT A YEAR OR TWO. [00:06:16]

BUT SOON AFTER SHE CAME HOME, THEY DIVORCED. THE EMOTIONS, THE STRESS, THE STRAIN WAS TOO GREAT, AND THAT FAMILY BROKE UP. NOW, THE APOSTLE PAUL WAS MINISTERING IN CORINTH, WHICH WAS A HEDONISTIC CITY, A PAGAN CITY, AN IMMORAL CITY. AND HE SAID THIS, HE SAID, "LET EVERY MAN TAKE HEED HOW HE BUILDS, FOR OTHER FOUNDATION CAN NO MAN BUILD, EXCEPT THAT WHICH IS IN JESUS CHRIST." IF YOU BUILD YOUR HOME ON JESUS CHRIST, THE PROBLEMS OF THE HOME ARE GOING TO BE FAR LESSENED, AND THE PROBLEMS OF DIVORCE MAY NEVER COME. [00:07:08]

WE FOUND IN A SURVEY IN THE UNITED STATES THAT WHERE THERE'S BIBLE READING, AND PRAYER, AND CHURCH ATTENDANCE IN THE HOME, WE ONLY HAVE ONE DIVORCE OUT OF EVERY 300 MARRIAGES. BUT THE NATIONAL AVERAGE IS ALMOST ONE OUT OF EVERY TWO, WHICH INDICATES IF YOU BUILD IT UPON CHRIST, THAT'S THE ANSWER TO THE BREAKING OF THE HOME TODAY. NOW CHRIST WAS BORN IN AN EARTHLY HOME, AND HE LIVED UNDER PARENTAL DISCIPLINE. HIS FIRST MIRACLE WAS PERFORMED AT A WEDDING CEREMONY. CHRIST'S FATHER DIED WHEN HE WAS YOUNG APPARENTLY, THERE'S NO MENTION OF HIM AFTER HE WAS 12 YEARS OF AGE, SO MAYBE JESUS CHRIST, BEING THE OLDEST SON, WAS THE BREADWINNER OF THE FAMILY, I DON'T KNOW. [00:08:05]

BUT, HE KNEW ALL THE PROBLEMS OF THE HOME. AND A FAVORITE BENEDICTION OF HIS WAS, UPON ENTERING A HOME, WAS "PEACE BE UPON THIS HOUSE." AND JESUS SAID THAT THE ENTRY INTO THE SPIRITUAL FAMILY IS LIKE THE ENTRY INTO A DOMESTIC FAMILY, IT'S THROUGH BIRTH. HE SAID YOU MUST BE BORN FROM ABOVE, YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN, BORN INTO GOD'S FAMILY. YOU WERE BORN INTO THE PRESENT FAMILY IN WHICH YOU LIVE, OR ANOTHER FAMILY, BUT YOU'RE BORN INTO GOD'S FAMILY ALSO. IF YOU WANT TO GET TO HEAVEN, IF YOU WANT TO HAVE YOUR SINS FORGIVEN, IF YOU WANT TO KNOW THAT YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE, YOU MUST BE BORN, BORN INTO GOD'S FAMILY, BY REPENTANCE OF YOUR SINS AND RECEIVING HIM BY FAITH. [00:08:43]

NOW JESUS CHRIST ADVOCATED HOUSEHOLD SALVATION. TO ZACCHAEUS HE SAID, "THIS DAY HAS SALVATION COME TO YOUR HOUSE." AND WHENEVER HE SAVED OR HEALED SOMEONE, HIS FIRST CONCERN WAS THAT THEY GO HOME AND TELL THEIR FAMILY ABOUT IT. SOME OF THEM WANTED TO FOLLOW HIM FROM THAT DAY ON, HE SAID, "NO, GO AND TELL YOUR FAMILY. GO BACK AND TELL YOUR COMMUNITY, GO TELL OTHERS." TO THE RESTORED DEMON POSSESSED MAN, HIS COMMAND WAS, "RETURN TO YOUR OWN HOUSE, AND SHOW WHAT GREAT THINGS GOD HAS DONE FOR YOU." [00:09:40]

IF WE DISREGARD GOD'S SUGGESTIONS AND REGULATIONS FOR THE HOME, IT IS IN DANGER OF ENDING IN FAILURE. BUT, MANY PEOPLE ARE RELUCTANT TO MAKE A COMMITMENT. PHYSICAL LOVE IS NOT ENOUGH, IT'S COMMITMENT THAT CARRIES OVER THE DIFFICULT TIMES. WHEN YOU GET MARRIED, YOU'RE COMMITTING FOR LIFE. IT'S COMMITMENT THAT'S KEPT RUTH AND ME TOGETHER IN TIMES OF STRESS, OR STRAIN, OR DIFFICULTY. WE WOULDN'T THINK OF BEING SEPARATED OR GETTING A DIVORCE NO MATTER WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. MAYBE SHE HAS, I NEVER HAVE. SHE ONCE TOLD SOMEONE SHE'D THOUGHT OF MURDER, BUT NOT DIVORCE. [00:11:14]

NOW, ANOTHER CORNERSTONE IN THE SUCCESSFUL HOME AND MARRIAGE, IS A SPIRITUAL EXERCISE: PRAYER, BIBLE READING, FELLOWSHIP WITH OTHER BELIEVERS. IN DEUTERONOMY 6 IT SAYS, "AND THESE WORDS WHICH I COMMAND YOU THIS DAY, SHALL BE IN YOUR HEART, AND YOU SHALL TEACH THEM DILIGENTLY UNTO YOUR CHILDREN." DO YOU SAY GRACE AT THE MEAL? DO YOU SAY PRAYER AT THE MEAL? DO YOU HAVE PRAYER IN THE HOME? DO YOU AND YOUR WIFE EVER READ THE BIBLE AND PRAY TOGETHER? [00:12:04]

WHEN A MAN LOVES HIS WIFE, AS CHRIST LOVES THE CHURCH, IT'S EASY FOR THE WIFE TO SUBMIT TO THE HUSBAND. THE IMAGE HERE IS NOT OF A MIGHTY POTENTATE, SITTING UPON THE THRONE, AND RULING HIS SUBJECTS WITH AN IRON HAND. THIS IS MORE LIKE A CONDUCTOR, STANDING ON HIS BOX, DIRECTING A SYMPHONY. DELICATE, BUT SUBDUED. IS THAT THE KIND OF A HUSBAND YOU ARE? THE BIBLE SAYS, "LIVE JOYFULLY WITH THE WIFE OF THY YOUTH." IT DOESN'T SAY, "GO OUT AND GET YOU A YOUNGER WOMAN." IT SAYS LIVE WITH THE WIFE OF YOUR YOUTH, THE ONE YOU MARRIED WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG. [00:13:40]

HOW MANY MEN WHEN THEY REACH THE AGE OF 40, OR 50, OR 60 WANT TO PROVE THEIR VIRILITY, AND GO OUT AND GET SOME YOUNG THING. THAT'S NOT COMMITMENT, THAT IS A SIN AGAINST GOD. I READ A NEWSPAPER STORY WHERE IT DISCUSSED SEVERAL RECENT MOVIES THAT DEAL WITH ADULTERY AS A POSITIVE GROWTH EXPERIENCE. DON'T YOU EVER BELIEVE ANYTHING LIKE THAT. THAT'LL DESTROY OUR CULTURE AS QUICK AS ANYTHING. THE BIBLE SAYS THAT UNFAITHFULNESS IS THE PATHWAY TO HELL. [00:14:24]

ONE OF THE VICES WHICH IS HITTING OUR WIVES AND MOTHERS TODAY IN THE WORLD IS ALCOHOLISM AND DRUGS. YOU SEE, THEY DON'T HAVE CHRIST TO TURN TO, AND WHEN YOU'RE REARING CHILDREN, AND WHEN YOU'RE MARRIED, YOU NEED A RESOURCE, YOU NEED HELP, AND THAT COMES FROM GOD, A RELATIONSHIP TO GOD. JUST AS THE HUSBAND, TO BE THE RIGHT KIND OF A HUSBAND, NEEDS CHRIST; SO TO BE THE RIGHT KIND OF A WIFE OR A MOTHER, YOU NEED CHRIST. AND SO MANY DON'T HAVE CHRIST, SO THEY TURN TO SOMETHING ELSE TO HELP THEM. A CHRISTIAN HOME HAS A DEVOTED MOTHER AND WIFE. [00:15:13]

NOW CHILDREN CAN ABSORB ANY AMOUNT OF LOVE AND DISCIPLINE AS LONG AS THE TWO ARE KEPT IN BALANCE. I HEARD A PSYCHIATRIST SAY AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY MANY YEARS AGO IN THE UNITED STATES, HE SAID, "IF YOUR CHILDREN REBEL, KEEP THEIR LOVE AT ALL COST. THEY'LL COME THROUGH IT, AND WHEN THEY COME THROUGH THAT PERIOD, THE LOVE WILL BE THERE AND YOU WON'T HAVE TO RE-ESTABLISH ANYTHING." THE SCRIPTURE SAYS, "TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO." NOT THE WAY HE WOULD GO, BUT THE WAY HE SHOULD GO. AND WE'RE TO DO IT BY SETTING AN EXAMPLE OF LOVE AND DISCIPLINE TOGETHER AND IN BALANCE WITH EACH OTHER. [00:16:33]

YOUR SON, YOUR DAUGHTER, WILL COME BACK IF YOU'VE TRAINED THEM CORRECTLY WHEN THEY WERE CHILDREN AND LIVED AN EXAMPLE OF CHRIST IN FRONT OF THEM. BUT IF YOU HAVEN'T LIVED AN EXAMPLE IN FRONT OF THEM, DON'T EXPECT GOD TO DO GREAT MIRACLES. HE MIGHT, HE WILL, AS I'LL SHOW YOU IN JUST A MOMENT, RIGHT HERE IN SHEFFIELD, WHAT HE'S DOING IN SOME FAMILIES RIGHT NOW. YOUR SOCIAL AND DOMESTIC RESPONSIBILITIES MAKE YOUR INDIVIDUAL RESPONSE TO CHRIST THAT MUCH MORE SIGNIFICANT. ON THE OTHER HAND, IF YOU ARE HERE WITH PART OR ALL OF YOUR FAMILY TONIGHT, AND THE LORD SAYS TO YOU, AS HE INVITED NOAH, "COME THOU, AND ALL THY HOUSE INTO THE ARK." [00:17:37]

HERE'S A LETTER THAT SAYS, "DEAR DR. GRAHAM, I HAD TO WRITE YOU TO TELL YOU, THIS TIME LAST YEAR MY DIVORCE PAPERS WERE THROUGH. MY HUSBAND WAS A MINER ON STRIKE. MY CHILDREN'S LIVES WERE IN TATTERS, BECAUSE OF MY OWN SINS. MY YOUNG SON WAS TURNING TO CRIME AT 13 YEARS OF AGE. MY DAUGHTER WAS EMOTIONALLY HURT, COPING WITH MY SINS, AND UNEMPLOYMENT AFTER FINISHING COLLEGE. FOR YEARS I'D BEEN DELVING INTO THE SUPERNATURAL, READING CARDS OF FORTUNE, AND RAPIDLY GOING TO HELL. I REACHED IT WHEN MY MARRIAGE SMASHED. AND I THOUGHT IT WAS MY LIFE TO DO WHAT I WANTED WITH. IT WAS NOT ALWAYS LIKE THAT. [00:19:25]

"WE'D HAD A GOOD MARRIAGE FOR 21 YEARS. A BUS, WITH 'BILLY GRAHAM WORTH LISTENING TO' KEPT PASSING MY HUSBAND ON THE MINER'S PICKET LINE. IT BUGGED HIM, TORMENTED HIM, HOUNDED HIM SO MUCH DAY AFTER DAY, THAT ONE DISMAL, RAINY NIGHT, HE TOOK ME ALONG TO HEAR WHAT THIS BILLY GRAHAM FELLA HAD TO SHOUT ABOUT. THE DIVORCE WAS ALMOST THROUGH, MY SON WAS DUE IN COURT. I WENT IN ANGER, THINKING IT WAS ALL SO STUPID, BUT JESUS CRACKED ME THAT NIGHT. I BROKE MY HEART BEFORE HIM. I GAVE MY LIFE A YEAR AGO, TO ONE OF THE RELAYS" [SHE WAS IN A RELAY], "AND I WAS BORN AGAIN. [00:20:17]

"THREE WEEKS AGO MY HUSBAND WAS BAPTIZED. SATURDAY NIGHT MY DAUGHTER GAVE HER LIFE TO CHRIST AT BRAMALL LANE. MY SON DIDN'T COME, BUT GAVE OVER HIS LIFE SIX MONTHS AGO. THIS YEAR I'M A COUNSELOR, HOPING TO BE GOD'S SERVANT. DR. GRAHAM, I KNOW THIS WILL BE THANK YOU AMONGST THOUSANDS, BUT THANK YOU FOR GIVING GOD'S WORD LAST YEAR ON THE BRINK OF THIS FAMILY'S NEAR TOTAL DESTRUCTION. THIS WHOLE FAMILY IS REUNITED IN THE LOVE OF GOD. IT'S NOT BEEN EASY. WE HAVE ALL HAD TO HAND THINGS OVER TO HIM. BUT, OH MY GOD, WHAT HE'S GIVEN US IN RETURN." THAT'S ONE FAMILY. [00:21:01]

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Transcript
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