For the past several weeks, God has been instructing us from Ephesians 5 and 6 regarding the Christian family. As we have walked through the verses on marriage, gender & sexuality, parenting, children, and more, we pray the Spirit of the Lord is moving on our hearts. We want to be disciples of Jesus in our homes, our marriages, and in our relationships!
One resource that can help parents is J.C. Ryle’s book. Bishop Ryle was an evangelical bishop in the Anglican church who has been cherished for generations for his clear Biblical teaching, practical application, and warm spiritual piety. Ryle is an example to Christians in all generations! You can read more about J.C. Ryle here.
His book that is so helpful for our purposes here is his The Duties of Parents: 17 Practical Ways to Successful Parenting. Written in the 1800’s, Ryle’s book is shockingly relevant for today’s needs. Not only does Duties of Parents make clear our children’s need for Christ, but it also has so much practical teaching: how to teach our children good time management, preventing our kids from over-indulging (whether screen time, play instead of chores, etc.), and the importance of obedience.
You may not have children at home, or you may not have active parenting duties. Nevertheless, this book is still important for you! Whether grandparents, Sunday school teachers, or getting a copy for the young parents in your neighborhood, so many people can benefit from this book! After all, Proverbs 22:6 teaches, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This wise proverb is important to the entire Church of Jesus Christ, in every land, and in every time.
Here is a great version to read online. Or, you can download the book as PDF.
Of course, you can always pick up a physical copy in the Narthex. Many of you grabbed a copy last Sunday, and several more copies will be available at worship.
May God bless our parents, and our families, for His glory!
Zion Evangelical & Reformed Church 