THE ROLE OF FATHERS IN THE FAMILY

MAIN TEXT: 1 CORINTHIANS 4:14-21

Memory Verse: For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household
after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will
bring about for Abraham what he has promised him - Genesis 18:19
Introduction
In order to be good fathers to children, fathers need to be intentional about training their
children. They should also understand that they were purposely chosen by God to direct their
household especially their children to follow after God. So the father is the priest, the coach,
the director and the teacher of the house. Whatever he does becomes an example for the
household to learn. The future of any generation therefore, is greatly influenced by the
behaviour and character of fathers. In todays lesson, we will use Paul as a model to study the
role of fathers in parenting.
Questions For Discussion
1. How did Paul become the spiritual father of the church in Corinth? Verse 15
2. Mention three things Paul did to the church in Corinth as a spiritual father? Verses 16-17
3. Why was it important for Paul to still go to Corinth? Verse 19
4. Why do you think Paul had the confidence to tell the church to imitate him?
5. What lessons have you learnt from Paul as model of fatherhood?
Conclusion
Through the gospel of Christ Jesus, Paul became the spiritual father of the church in
Corinth. In writing to them, Paul does not want to shame them because fathers are not to
provoke their children (Ephes 6:4). He, however, warned them against arrogance, reminded
them of his way of life and urged them to imitate him. Even though he wrote to them and also
sent Timothy to them, that was not enough for him. He also planned to visit them in person as
a father. Fathers are expected to be intentionally involved in the raising of their children in
ways pleasing to the Lord.