How would you describe your relationship with your parents? What is one way in particular that you can try and honor them this week?

 

Children have a responsibility to obey both their father and their mother, and God has given both the father and the mother authority over their children (Ephesians 6:1). Why, then, do you think that Paul gives instructions to the fathers in particular in Ephesians 6:4?

 

If you are a parent with children in the home, what is it that you find most difficult about obeying Paul’s command in Ephesians 6:4? In what ways are you most tempted to abdicate your responsibility as a parent to disciple your children?

 

Why is it important for Christians to be humble and teachable, and willing to receive instruction?  Why is it important for Christians to be bold and courageous, and willing to give instruction?  How do we find a healthy balance between these two?

 

What are the implications of Paul’s assertion (Ephesians 6:5-8) that all work (whether outside the home or inside the home) is ultimately done for God, and not for other people? How should this reality change how we work?

 

How does Paul instruct Christians to relate to those that are under their authority in Ephesians 6:9?  What does he cite as the motivating reason for relating this way?  What people in your life do you have authority over, and what would it look like for you to obey this verse as you relate to them?

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