12/04/2026
Divine Worship Service.
Sermon.
Topic : Train a Child in the way of God.
Text : Proverbs 22:6, deut. 6:6-7
Speaker ; Pst. Mfon G. James
Translator : Bro. Ofonmbuk Raymond.
Text
The classic proverb "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6) is more than just a catchy piece of advice; it’s a foundational principle for parenting and mentorship.
Here is a collection of key scriptures and a concise sermon outline to help you explore this theme.
📖 Key Bible Verses
Proverbs 22:6 (KJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
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..."
Ephesians 6:4: "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."
Psalm 127:3: "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
2 Timothy 3:15: "And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."
🎤 Sermon Outline: The Blueprint for a Godly Generation
1. The Meaning of "The Way"
In the original Hebrew, "in the way he should go" can be translated as "according to his bend." This suggests two things:
The Path of Righteousness: We must point them toward God’s universal truth.
Individual Design: We must recognize a child’s unique temperament, talents, and bents. Training isn't about forcing a child into your mold, but helping them discover God's mold for them.
2. Training vs. Telling
There is a profound difference between telling a child what to do and training them.
Instruction: Giving them the information (The Word).
Example: Showing them the application (The Walk).
"Children are better at imitating than they are at listening."
If we want children who pray, they must see us on our knees. If we want children who are kind, they must see us practice grace under pressure.
3. The Promise and the Reality
We often view Proverbs 22:6 as a "money-back guarantee," but Proverbs are generally principles, not absolute prophecies.
The Sowing: We plant the seeds of faith and character.
The Growing: Every child has free will. However, the "training" acts as a moral compass. Even if they wander in their youth, the "north" you established in their heart remains. It gives them a path to return to.
4. The Goal: Spiritual Maturity
The end goal of training is not just "good behavior" or "staying out of trouble." The goal is to develop a child who loves God for themselves. We are transitioning them from being dependent on our faith to being dependent on their own relationship with Christ.
💡 Quick Takeaways for Parents
Be Consistent: Rules without relationship lead to rebellion.
Be Patient: Training a vine takes time; you don't see the fruit the day you plant the seed.
Be Prayerful: You can provide the soil, but only God can provide the growth.
I PRAY MAY THE ALMIGHTY GOD HELP US TO TRAIN OUR CHILDREN SO THE CAN BE OF GREAT BENEFITS TO US. AMEN.
