Leading by Example: Embracing God's Authority in Family
Summary
In my recent sermon, I explored the biblical concept of authority and its application in our lives, particularly within the family and the church. I began by discussing the confusion surrounding authority in our culture, highlighting the challenges faced by teachers and parents in instilling respect for authority in children. I emphasized that as Christians, we must recognize that God is the ultimate authority over our lives, and we are responsible for leading our families in accordance with His will.
I then shared an analogy of sheep and shepherds, illustrating the importance of being part of God's flock and recognizing His voice as our shepherd. I explained that just as sheep follow their shepherd, we must listen to and obey God's voice, allowing others to be drawn to Him through our example.
I addressed the issue of leading by example, particularly in the context of parenting. I stressed that parents and grandparents should not merely ask their children what they want to do, especially regarding spiritual matters, but instead lead by demonstrating a heart that is ready and eager to follow God. This approach, I argued, would naturally encourage children to be ready for church and other spiritual activities because they are following someone who is following the head, which is God.
I delved into the story of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 18, where they were visited by three angelic beings who announced that they would have a child despite their old age. I pointed out that God addressed Abraham first, as the head of the household, even though Sarah was the one who laughed in disbelief. This highlighted the importance of recognizing and respecting the authority God has placed over us.
I also referenced Deuteronomy 6, where God commands His people to love Him with all their heart and to diligently teach their children His ways. I explained that the responsibility of teaching children to love and respect God begins at home with parents who first love God themselves.
Throughout the sermon, I used the metaphor of shepherding to convey how we should lead others to Christ—not by driving them from behind but by leading from the front, just as a shepherd leads his sheep. I concluded by encouraging the congregation to be mindful of everyday opportunities to teach and lead by example, ensuring that our actions align with God's authority over our lives.
Key Takeaways:
1. Authority in our lives must be recognized as coming from God, and our response to His leadership should be one of obedience and respect. As we submit to God's authority, we set an example for others to follow, which is crucial in a world that often rejects the concept of authority. ([02:38])
2. The role of a shepherd is not to drive the sheep from behind but to lead them by going ahead of them. In the same way, we must lead our families and communities by living out our faith authentically and passionately, demonstrating our commitment to following God's direction. ([38:32])
3. The concept of fearing the Lord is not about being scared but about having a profound respect for God's authority. When we live with a healthy fear of the Lord, we teach our children to honor God above all else, which impacts future generations. ([25:50])
4. The primary responsibility for teaching children to love God lies with the parents, not the church. While the church supports families, parents must actively and diligently seize everyday moments to instill biblical values and a love for God in their children. ([28:35])
5. Our actions and words in everyday situations are powerful teaching tools. By addressing issues as they arise and guiding our children according to God's principles, we shepherd their hearts toward a genuine relationship with God. ([32:48])
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 18:13-15 (NIV)
> Then the Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Will I really have a child, now that I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, “I did not laugh.” But he said, “Yes, you did laugh.”
2. Deuteronomy 6:4-7 (NIV)
> Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
3. John 10:2-4 (NIV)
> The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
#### Observation Questions
1. In Genesis 18, why did God address Abraham first when Sarah laughed at the promise of having a child? ([12:44])
2. According to Deuteronomy 6, what are parents commanded to do with God's commandments? ([23:45])
3. In John 10, how does the shepherd lead his sheep, and why do the sheep follow him? ([38:32])
4. What analogy did the pastor use to describe the role of authority in leading others to Christ? ([01:22])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that God addressed Abraham first about Sarah's laughter, and what does this teach about authority in the family? ([12:44])
2. How does the command in Deuteronomy 6 to impress God's commandments on children relate to the concept of leading by example? ([23:45])
3. What does the shepherd's method of leading from the front in John 10 teach us about effective leadership in our families and communities? ([38:32])
4. How does the pastor's story about the youngest child trying to call her siblings in for chores illustrate the importance of recognized authority? ([05:26])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own family dynamics. How do you currently demonstrate respect for God's authority in your home? What changes can you make to better lead by example? ([10:01])
2. Think about a time when you asked your children or family members if they wanted to participate in a spiritual activity. How can you shift from asking to leading by example in these situations? ([08:03])
3. The pastor emphasized the importance of parents loving God first to effectively teach their children. How can you deepen your own relationship with God to better influence your family? ([23:01])
4. Consider the metaphor of the shepherd leading from the front. In what specific ways can you lead your family or community by going ahead and setting a positive example? ([38:32])
5. The sermon mentioned the confusion about authority in today's culture. How can you help clarify and reinforce the concept of God’s authority in your daily interactions with others? ([02:01])
6. Reflect on the story of Abraham and Sarah. How can you trust and obey God's promises in your life, even when they seem impossible? ([12:44])
7. The pastor talked about seizing everyday moments to teach biblical values. Identify a recent situation where you missed an opportunity to teach a biblical principle. How can you be more mindful of these opportunities in the future? ([31:12])
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing God's Sovereign Authority
God's authority is the bedrock of our existence, and recognizing His sovereignty shapes how we live and lead. When we understand that all authority comes from God, we begin to see our roles in the family and the church through a lens of stewardship rather than control. This perspective requires a humble heart, one that is willing to submit to God's will and acknowledge His ultimate rule over our lives. It is through this submission that we can truly set an example for others, especially in a culture that often questions or rejects authority. By living in obedience to God, we demonstrate a clear and compelling alternative to the world's view of power and leadership. This example is not just for those in formal positions of authority but for every believer who influences others, whether as a parent, a friend, or a community member. The call to respect and obey God's authority is a daily commitment to align our actions with His commands and to trust in His perfect wisdom and love.
[02:38]
Romans 13:1-2 (ESV): "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment."
Reflection: How does acknowledging God's authority over your life change the way you approach decision-making and leadership within your family or community?
Day 2: Leading from the Front
The shepherd's role is a powerful metaphor for leadership within the Christian context. It is not about driving the flock from behind but about leading by example, going ahead to show the way. This principle applies directly to how we should guide our families and communities in faith. By living out our beliefs authentically and with passion, we become beacons that others can follow. This means making choices that reflect our commitment to God's word, even when it's challenging or counter-cultural. It's about being the first to forgive, to serve, to love, and to sacrifice, trusting that these actions will not only please God but also inspire those around us to do the same. When we lead from the front, we make the path of faith attractive and accessible, encouraging others to join us in the journey towards Christ.
[38:32]
1 Peter 5:2-3 (ESV): "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock."
Reflection: In what ways can you more actively demonstrate your faith to those around you, leading by example rather than merely instructing with words?
Day 3: Cultivating a Healthy Fear of the Lord
Fearing the Lord is a foundational aspect of our relationship with God. It is not about being scared but about having a profound respect and reverence for His authority and majesty. This fear is a source of wisdom and strength, guiding us in our daily lives and decisions. When we embody this respect for God, we naturally teach our children and those around us to honor Him above all else. This reverence is caught as much as it is taught; it is seen in our choices, our priorities, and our reactions to life's challenges. By living with a healthy fear of the Lord, we set a standard for the next generation, showing them the importance of placing God at the center of everything.
[25:50]
Proverbs 14:26-27 (ESV): "In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death."
Reflection: What does a healthy fear of the Lord look like in your daily life, and how can you better model this reverence for those who look up to you?
Day 4: Parents as Primary Spiritual Educators
The responsibility of teaching children to love and follow God primarily rests on the shoulders of parents. The church plays a supportive role, but it is within the home that faith is nurtured and grown. Parents must seize every opportunity to instill biblical values and a love for God in their children. This task requires intentionality and consistency, as well as a personal devotion to God that is evident to the family. When parents demonstrate a genuine love for God, they lay a foundation for their children to build upon. This legacy of faith is one of the most precious gifts a parent can give, and it has the power to influence generations to come.
[28:35]
Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (ESV): "You shall therefore lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: What are some practical ways you can incorporate teaching about God into your daily interactions with your children or those you mentor?
Day 5: Everyday Actions as Teaching Moments
Our everyday actions and words are not just a reflection of our faith; they are also powerful teaching tools. Whether we are addressing issues with our children, interacting with colleagues, or engaging with our community, we have the opportunity to guide others according to God's principles. These moments are chances to shepherd hearts toward a genuine relationship with God. By responding to life's challenges with grace, wisdom, and love, we demonstrate the transformative power of a life lived in obedience to God. These consistent, everyday examples can leave a lasting impact on those we influence, drawing them closer to the heart of God.
[32:48]
Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: Can you identify a recent situation where you could have better exemplified God's principles, and how might you approach a similar situation differently in the future?
Quotes
"We live in a culture that does not like people to tell them what to do... where would we be if we didn't have authority? Anarchy, craziness, confused... many people need to get back to having a Biblical understanding of authority in every area of their life, especially at the home level... when we lead our children or when we lead, we shepherd people, we have to realize that God's got to get a hold of us first." [03:19]
"People from behind, they're trying to get people to come to church, they're trying to get their kids to do spiritual things... they should be leading from the front because the guy that's leading from the front, although he's leading, he has another authority over top of him... although I'm the pastor of this church, I'm not the head of this church. I have God over me." [10:01]
"Today we have so many kids that are mixed up... they say heads or tails should we come to church today, it just depends on how we feel. No, no heads or tails about it, you're going to church, it's the Lord's Day... because somebody recognized the authority above them." [11:17]
"Abraham, God says you're the head of the household, that's why he talks to him, but I want you to notice here he doesn't let Sarah out of it... Sarah, I even saw you because I'm the head, I saw what you did... Sarah I know your heart, I know your motive here, you're laughing at me, you're not showing the respect and the worthiness of your Authority." [15:42]
"Who is responsible in this room to love God with all their heart? Everybody... Deuteronomy 6... we're talking about Authority and our Authority has to be God, and when our Authority is a heart driven toward God, then it's naturally our children are going to want to start to follow... because they're seeing in us we are obeying our Authority." [23:01]
"God the authority is telling the people here, I'm going to make a strong suggestion you need to obey your Authority and you need to teach that you might do... that might fear the lord thy God to keep all his Commandments... if you give your children a 'do you want to do this' and they are choosing fishing over church... they are disrespecting God." [25:50]
"Thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children... when you're in your house and you see something on TV you say hey that's not good, that doesn't honor our Authority, perfect teaching time... what are you going to do when your two kids are having a fist fight or an argument, say time out till we get to church to try to get your heart right?" [30:31]
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