Guarding Innocence: The Parental Responsibility
Summary
This morning, we explored the profound responsibility entrusted to parents and caregivers to guard the innocence of children. Using the story of Lot from Genesis 13, we saw how self-interest and indifference can lead to devastating consequences for families. Lot, given the choice by Abram, chose the lush and prosperous Jordan Valley, setting his tent near Sodom—a city infamous for its wickedness. Over time, Lot’s family moved from the outskirts into the heart of Sodom, and eventually, Lot became a leader in that corrupt city. The tragic results were not just personal but generational, as his family was deeply affected by the environment he chose for them.
This narrative serves as a warning: when parents or guardians prioritize their own desires or comfort over the spiritual and moral well-being of their families, they risk polluting the innocence of those entrusted to their care. Children have a spiritual “immune system” that is far more vulnerable than adults often realize. What may seem tolerable or manageable for us can be deeply damaging for them. Jesus’ words in Matthew 18 are sobering—He warns that causing a child to stumble is a grave offense, one that He takes with utmost seriousness.
For those who grew up in homes where innocence was not protected, there is an invitation to forgiveness. Holding on to bitterness or pain from the past only deepens wounds and hinders healing. Forgiveness is not about excusing wrongs but about releasing the debt and allowing God to bring restoration.
For parents and future parents, the call is to examine our own self-interests and the subtle ways they may shape the environment of our homes. Whether it’s career ambitions, personal comfort, or cultural pressures, we must be vigilant not to let these things take precedence over the spiritual health of our families. It’s also crucial for couples to discuss and agree on the guardrails and standards they want to set for their families, even before children arrive.
Ultimately, the example of Christ stands in stark contrast to Lot. Jesus did not seek His own interests but humbled Himself for our sake, rescuing us from sin rather than dragging us into it. His selflessness is the model for all who lead and care for others. As we remember His sacrifice through communion, we are reminded to pursue humility, protection, and love in our own families and communities.
Key Takeaways
- Forgiveness for Parental Failures: If you were raised in a home where your innocence was not protected, it may be time to forgive your parents. Forgiveness is not dependent on their apology but on your willingness to release the debt and allow God to heal your wounds. Holding on to bitterness only perpetuates pain and hinders your spiritual growth. [58:19]
- The Danger of Self-Interest in Family Life: The greatest threat to your family’s spiritual health may be your own self-interest. Like Lot, prioritizing personal desires—whether career, comfort, or self-fulfillment—can lead to decisions that expose your family to harm. True leadership in the home means putting the well-being of others above your own ambitions. [59:50]
- Children’s Spiritual Vulnerability: Children have a much lower “spiritual immunity” to sin than adults, making them especially susceptible to harmful influences. What adults can rationalize or process may deeply wound a child’s heart and mind. It is a sacred duty to guard their innocence and be mindful of what we allow into their lives. [56:19]
- The Importance of Setting Guardrails Early: For those who hope to have families in the future, it is vital to discuss and agree on the moral and spiritual boundaries you want to establish. Differences in upbringing can create tension if not addressed early, so intentional conversations about values, media, and involvement in church are essential. Proactive unity now prevents future conflict and confusion. [01:03:16]
- Christ’s Selfless Example: Unlike Lot, who acted out of self-interest, Jesus modeled perfect humility and self-sacrifice. He did not seek His own comfort but gave Himself for our salvation, drawing us out of sin rather than into it. His example calls us to lead our families and communities with the same selfless love and protective care. [01:09:30]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Introduction and Outreach Update
[05:30] - The Importance of Missionary Encouragement
[08:45] - A Story of Parental Indifference
[13:20] - Overprotection vs. Indifference in Parenting
[16:40] - Setting the Stage: Abram and Lot
[21:05] - Lot’s Choice and Its Consequences
[27:30] - The Spiritual Climate of Sodom
[32:15] - Lot’s Family and the Drift into Sin
[38:50] - Jesus’ Warning About Causing Children to Stumble
[44:00] - The Spiritual Immunity of Children
[49:10] - Application: Forgiveness and Self-Interest
[53:50] - Setting Guardrails for Future Families
[58:30] - Communion: Christ’s Selfless Example
[01:10:41] - Closing Prayer and Invitation to Respond
[01:17:25] - Final Announcements and Dismissal
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
- Genesis 13:8-13 (Lot chooses the Jordan Valley and settles near Sodom)
- Matthew 18:5-6 (Jesus warns about causing children to stumble)
- Philippians 2:4-11 (Christ’s humility and self-sacrifice)
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 13:8-13, what motivated Lot’s choice of where to settle? What details in the passage show his priorities?
2. In Matthew 18:5-6, what does Jesus say about those who cause children to stumble? How serious does He make this issue sound?
3. From the sermon, what were the steps in Lot’s progression from living near Sodom to becoming a leader in the city? ([21:05])
4. According to Philippians 2:4-11, what attitude did Jesus model that is different from Lot’s example?
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Lot’s decision to move closer to Sodom had such a big impact on his family? What does this say about the influence of our environment? ([21:05])
2. Jesus uses very strong language in Matthew 18:6 about causing a child to stumble. Why do you think He is so serious about this? What does this reveal about how God views children’s spiritual vulnerability? ([53:26])
3. The sermon mentioned that children have a “lower spiritual immunity” than adults. What does this mean, and why is it important for parents and caregivers to remember? ([56:19])
4. How does Christ’s example in Philippians 2 challenge the way we make decisions for our families or those we influence? ([01:09:30])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon talked about forgiving parents who failed to protect your innocence, even if they never apologize. Is there any bitterness or pain from your upbringing that you are still holding onto? What would it look like to begin releasing that to God? ([58:19])
2. Lot’s self-interest led to harm for his family. Are there areas in your life where your own desires or ambitions might be putting your family or others at risk spiritually or morally? How can you identify your own “Jordan Valley”? ([59:50])
3. The pastor said that what adults can handle or rationalize may be deeply damaging for children. Are there things in your home (media, conversations, habits) that you tolerate but might be harmful to kids? What changes could you make to better guard their innocence? ([56:19])
4. For those who are married or hope to have families in the future, have you and your spouse (or future spouse) talked about what guardrails and standards you want to set for your home? What are some specific topics you need to discuss? ([01:03:16])
5. Christ’s example was to put others’ needs above His own. What is one practical way you can show selfless love and protection to your family or those you influence this week? ([01:09:30])
6. If you grew up in a home where innocence was not protected, how can you seek healing and restoration in Christ? Are there steps you need to take, such as seeking prayer, counseling, or talking with someone you trust? ([58:19])
7. The sermon mentioned that sometimes we think these issues don’t apply to us, but God may want to use us to help others who have been wounded. Is there someone in your life who needs encouragement or support in this area? How can you reach out to them? ([01:07:17])
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Devotional
Day 1: Guarding Innocence: The Responsibility of Parents
Parents are entrusted with the sacred duty of protecting the innocence of their children, recognizing that children have a spiritual vulnerability and lower immunity to sin than adults. When parents are indifferent or careless, allowing or even leading their children into environments or experiences that are spiritually harmful, they risk polluting that innocence and causing deep, lasting wounds. The story of Lot serves as a sobering example: his selfish choices led his family into the heart of Sodom, exposing them to pervasive wickedness and ultimately resulting in devastating consequences for all involved. As caretakers, it is vital to be vigilant, discerning, and proactive in shielding those entrusted to us from unnecessary exposure to sin, understanding that what may not affect us as adults can deeply impact a child. [56:19]
Genesis 13:8-13 (ESV)
Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.” And Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well watered everywhere like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, in the direction of Zoar. (This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) So Lot chose for himself all the Jordan Valley, and Lot journeyed east. Thus they separated from each other. Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled among the cities of the valley and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the Lord.
Reflection: In what ways are you actively protecting the innocence of those in your care, and are there areas where you may be indifferent or careless about what they are exposed to?
Day 2: The Weight of Causing Others to Stumble
Jesus issues a grave warning to those who would cause children or the spiritually vulnerable to stumble, emphasizing the seriousness of our influence and responsibility. Welcoming and nurturing children is a blessing, but leading them into sin—whether by action, neglect, or indifference—brings severe consequences. Jesus’ words remind us that it is better to face dire consequences than to be the cause of a child’s spiritual downfall. This calls for humility, vigilance, and a deep sense of accountability in all our interactions with the young and impressionable, striving always to point them toward Christ and not away from Him. [53:26]
Matthew 18:5-6 (ESV)
“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.”
Reflection: Is there any way—by your words, actions, or indifference—that you might be leading a child or someone spiritually vulnerable toward sin, and what step can you take today to change that?
Day 3: Forgiving the Wounds of the Past
Many carry wounds from childhood, scars left by parents or guardians who failed to protect or even exposed them to harm. Forgiveness is not about excusing or forgetting the pain, but about releasing the debt and refusing to let bitterness take root in your heart. Holding on to resentment only deepens the hurt and can shape your life in destructive ways. Today, you are invited to begin the journey of forgiveness—not because those who hurt you have asked for it, but because Christ calls you to freedom and healing. Letting go is not easy, but it is a step toward wholeness and peace. [58:19]
Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV)
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Reflection: Who in your past do you need to forgive for failing to protect you, and what would it look like to begin releasing that hurt to God today?
Day 4: The Danger of Self-Interest in Family Life
Self-interest can be the greatest threat to the well-being of a family, as seen in Lot’s choice to prioritize his own desires over the safety and spiritual health of his household. When parents or leaders put their own ambitions, comforts, or preferences above the needs of their family, the consequences can be far-reaching and deeply damaging. True love and leadership require self-examination and a willingness to sacrifice personal gain for the good of others. Identifying your own “Jordan Valley”—the area where you are tempted to put yourself first—is the first step toward realigning your priorities with God’s call to selfless care. [01:01:21]
Philippians 2:4-5 (ESV)
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.
Reflection: What is your “Jordan Valley”—an area where your self-interest may be endangering your family or those you love—and what practical change can you make this week to put their well-being first?
Day 5: Building Guardrails: Preparing for a God-Honoring Family
Whether you are already a parent, hope to be one, or are simply part of a family or community, it is vital to establish clear guardrails and shared values that protect and nurture spiritual health. Open conversations about boundaries, media, involvement in church, and moral standards lay a foundation for unity and holiness, especially when people come from different backgrounds. The goal of family is not just happiness, but holiness—a journey that requires intentionality, humility, and grace. Begin these conversations early, seek common ground, and invite God to guide your decisions so that your home becomes a place of safety, growth, and blessing. [01:03:16]
Joshua 24:15 (ESV)
And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Reflection: What guardrails or shared values do you need to discuss or establish—either now or in preparation for the future—to ensure your family or household is protected and centered on Christ?
Quotes
A parent is supposed to protect, to guard their kids from some things. There’s some things we can’t—you send your kids off to school, even Christian school, there were things that I was subjected to in a Christian school environment that I think the only way my parents could have protected me from was that they sealed me up in my room and removed all external communication from sixth grade till twelfth. That was it. But when it comes to intentionally not looking out for the welfare of your kid and intentionally submerging them into something that is dark and evil to them, that’s not what a parent does. [00:37:40]
Lot chose the best, he chose the excitement, he chose the life, the energy, you know, and then it says in verse 13, now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the Lord. This indicates by the fact that this is pointed out that it was kind of known that this was the Las Vegas of the day and age. This is Sin City. There is nothing good going down there. They are known for being wicked and inventing new ways of doing wicked things and here it says Lot sets up his tent nearby. [00:47:28]
He willfully submerged because of his desire being more important than the rest of the family. It was needless and it was selfish. He was looking out for what he wanted and his role as a father was to protect the innocence and guide his family. [00:49:43]
It all falls at the feet of Lot who exposed willfully for his selfish desires his children, his wife, and it messed up the family. [00:52:24]
But if you cause one of these little ones to sin as you, the protector, you, the adult, you, the mature, you drag them into it, it would be better if it was almost like the mafia. You know, cement shoes are put on and you’re dropped in the middle of the lake. Here he says a millstone is put around your neck and you’re dropped into the ocean. You’d be better off dead. Bad news. You know better. You know how to protect them. That’s your responsibility. Keep them innocent as long as you possibly can. [00:53:34]
Parents who indifferently permit sin exposure pollute innocence. I’m going to break this down because that’s a mouthful there. Parents who indifferently, carelessly, not concerned, indifferently permit. They allow it. They even bring their kids into the sinful act or the sinful lifestyle, abuse, all the stuff that some of us had to experience ourselves. They permit sin exposure, brokenness. They’re indifferent to it. They don’t care that you’re seeing it. They don’t care how it affects you. Pollutes innocence. [00:54:19]
Parents ignore at times that kids have a lower immunity to sin than maybe what we as adults who have lived a lot of life have. Did you catch that? That we forget how the immune system, the spiritual immune system of a child is different than ours as an adult. [00:55:17]
Kids don’t have the immunity or strength that we have. And we need to remember that when we’re taking kids or exposing kids or talking a certain way or whatever it is, we have to remember that. [00:56:55]
If we are indifferent to that and we willfully submit our kids to that, we are in sin. Shame on us. Shame on us. [00:57:37]
If you have bitterness, if you have hurt as a result of that, the longer that you hold on to it, it just gets worse. It holds on to you and turns you into a bitter and angry person looking for people to blame, looking for someone to blame for where you are in your life. Maybe it is time that you, even as we get ready to go into communion in a second, maybe it’s time to forgive them. And to let it go and to move on from those wounds. [00:59:10]
Your family’s biggest threat may be your self-interest. This is definitely more for our parents, even grandparents here. It could be that the biggest threat to your family is your own self-interest, looking out for what you want. [00:59:44]
Self-interest, not caring, indifference, your self-interest in what you allow in your home. Or perhaps, as you know, in the day and age that we live, it’s your self-love. I need to love myself. I need to look out for myself. Instead of forgetting that you’re part of a family. [01:01:21]
It could be the greatest danger to your family is your self-interest, looking out for what you want over your family. And for those of you that maybe that hits home a little bit, you need to identify what is your Jordan Valley. What is it that you are looking out for you? And whatever it costs, you’ll do it. You need to identify that. And that’s where the work needs to start coming of the Holy Spirit in your life and change in your life. [01:02:40]
Have common ground on the guardrails you want for your future family. Nothing can cause more tension than people. You know, marriage is one of those things where you get two people, sometimes from completely different upbringings, and God says, let’s put them together and see what happens. And that’s where the objective of marriage is not necessarily fully your happiness, but your holiness. [01:03:35]
I hope some of you will find forgiveness today for your family. For your parents that, whatever reason, maybe they weren’t even believers, set the tone the way they did. I pray for you to be released today of that. I pray for those of us that maybe we know we are putting something, our own self-interest, like Lot did, over his family. And we’re expecting the family to turn out okay, even though we’re putting ourselves first. That we cannot walk out of here without identifying what that Jordan Valley is in our life. And start to do work on changing that now. Because family is too important. Family is too important. [01:04:56]
But the good news is this, this morning. Jesus was not focused on himself. Jesus was not trying to drag you into evil like Lot drug his family into. No, he was trying to drag us out of what it was evil. He came to save you at whatever cost that it took. And the cross reminds us of that selfless act of sacrifice. [01:08:34]
Let each of you not only look up to your own interests. Don’t look out for yourself like Lot did. But also to the interests of others. Think about those around you. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. If you’re a believer, this is given to you. You have access to this. [01:09:03]
Jesus had every right to hold on to privilege. He was God. And to ask and expect the best of the best. And as I mentioned last week, humility is the story of Jesus. From being born to lowly parents, from a town nobody wanted to be associated with, to dying an innocent man on a criminal’s cross. It was humility. And why? He loves you. He wanted to make the relationship between God and man right again. That is a good Father. That is a great Savior. [01:10:14]
His choices ended up endangering his family. It corrupted himself. It corrupted his family. Our sins are often self-focused like Lot. That’s really what it is. It’s a rebellion against God when I say, I’m going to do what I want to do, God, not what you tell me to do. [01:08:14]
We do hope that you will prayerfully consider becoming a Christian and giving your life to Jesus Christ, though. It’s the best and biggest decision you will ever make. [01:11:30]
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