Chapter 4:

Far-reaching Influence of the Home

Mission of the Home - " Extends beyond its own member"

"The Christian Home Is an Object Lesson"

1. Illustrating the true Principles of Life

- imparting and introduce the nobler principles to other household.

- The members are polite and courteous christians.

"The angels of God will often visit the home in which the will of God bears sway"

- Correct habits are formed

- Recognition of the rights of others

- principle of brotherhood laid down in the word of God is more widely recognized and obeyed

Influence of a Well-ordered Family

- We are required to be living epistles known and read of all men. This position involves fearful
responsibilities.3 AH 31.3

- "One well-ordered, well-disciplined family tells more in behalf of Christianity than all the sermons that
can be preached"

- The whole family is engaged in the service of the Master; and by their godly example, others are
inspired to be faithful and true to God in dealing with His flock, His beautiful flock.4 AH 32.1
- "The greatest evidence of the power of Christianity that can be presented to the world is a well-
ordered, well-disciplined family. "

- Well Ordered/Well- disiplined family -it is a living witness of its practical power upon the heart.

- " The best test of the Christianity of a home is the type of character begotten by its influence. Actions
speak louder than the most positive profession of godliness".6 AH 32.3

- Our business in this world ... is to see what virtues we can teach our children and our families to
possess, that they shall have an influence upon other families,...

- A well-ordered, a well-disciplined family in the sight of God is more precious than fine gold, even than
the golden wedge of Ophir.7 AH 32.4

Wonderful Possibilities Are Ours

- The work to which we are called does not require wealth or social position or great ability. It requires a
kindly, self-sacrificing spirit and a steadfast purpose.

- Lamp Example *

-A lamp, however small, if kept steadily burning, may be the means of lighting many other lamps. Our
sphere of influence may seem narrow, our ability small, our opportunities few, our acquirements limited;
yet wonderful possibilities are ours through a faithful use of the opportunities of our own homes.

- Faithful work done in the home educates others to do the same class of work.
- The work of whole-souled soldiers of Christ is as far-reaching as eternity. Then why is it that there is
such a lack of the missionary spirit in our churches? It is because there is a neglect of home piety.10 AH
33.2

Influence of an Ill-regulated Family

- It is widespread, and disastrous to all society.

- It accumulates in a tide of evil that affects families, communities, and governments.

- ....if he is filled with the love of Christ, he will manifest courtesy, kindness, tender regard for the feelings
of others and will communicate to his associates, by his acts of love, a tender, grateful, happy feeling.

- It will be made manifest that he is living for Jesus and daily learning lessons at His feet, receiving His
light and His peace. He will be able to say to the Lord, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.”12 AH 33.4