If the first institution created by God was marriage, that led immediately (and inevitably) to the second institution: the family. The family is also a picture of the relationship of the Lord to His people. Throughout the Bible, God calls His people his children; and God compares the love that He has for His people to the love found in a family. Even within the very being of God we see a picture of family relationships, in the Father and the Son. Or rather, earthly family relationships help us to understand the nature of God and the Gospel. Paul gives good practical advice to children and parents in Ephesians 6, but it is also an opportunity for Christian families to show forth the love of God and the true relationship we can have with Him as redeemed in sinners in the “Theater of the Gospel: Family” (Ephesians 6:1-4).

I. Duty of Children
A. Obey Your Parents
B. Honor Your Parents

II. Duty of Parents
A. Exercise Restraint
B. Encourage Growth

III. The Goal of the Family
A. To Be A Place Where the Gospel is Heard
B. To Be A Place Where the Gospel is Seen

Questions for consideration: (1) What is it that is the greatest challenge to you obeying and honoring your parents? How can the gospel make possible what is very difficult? (2) Why do you think parents have to exercise restraint? What is most difficult about obeying that command of God? (3) In what practical ways can the gospel be heard regularly in your home?