JED BREAKS BREAD

One of the most challenging aspects of theology to understand is a concept found both in Exodus and in Romans: What does it mean when God says He hardens someone's heart? 

In this episode, I spend time developing the Biblical terms "heart" and "harden" and then discuss both human responsibility and the divine will in the process of hardening. 

After completing this study, what struck me most is this: It's not a wonder that God hardens anyone's heart, but rather, that God has mercy on anyone, for our hearts are desperately wicked and deserving of all the punishment God could mete out! 

In this episode, I define "worldview" from God's Word and explain the significance of a person's worldview and how that impacts the choices one makes in life. 

There are three factors that influence one's worldview. 

Important verses to help understand and change your worldview are Romand 12:1-2 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-5. 

What is the purpose of the church? What is the relationship of the individual Christian to his church?

Sadly, too many Christians in America go "church shopping," when instead the NT says that Christians themselves ARE the church and have a responsibility AS the church: the stand for the Truth of God's Word. 

In today's episode, I consider how the verse I discussed last week, about the Christian's obligation to contend earnestly for the faith, is put into practice in the institution of the local church. 

What is one of the main responsibilities of a true Christian? I provide some background information on a verse that challenges me to live for Christ.

In this episode, I'll explain what "the faith" is, what it means to "contend earnestly," the need for this task, and the implications for the life of every believer. 

Why are the teen years so frustrating for parents? (The teens are asking, "Why are they so frustrating for me?!") 

During the teen years, parents need to recognize that a fundamental shift occurs in how they shepherd their children. The teen years are for helping your children learn how to use freedom responsibility and to apply the lessons of obedience and character which you've already taught them. 

The three training objectives come from Proverbs 1:7-10. 

Consider carefully the discussion on power vs. influence near the end of the episode when seeking to put these objectives into practice. 

What is the parenting goal for children who are between the ages of 5-12? 

Primary Goal: Character Development

Subjects discussed include the importance of character development, how to train towards developing character, the definition and role of the conscience, and finally, 5 key truths to remember and implement. 

Prescriptions and Precautions for using the rod of discipline. 

The importance of using Biblical communication with the rod. 

Precautions and problems to avoid when using the rod. 

A bird's eye view of training objectives through the stages of childhood.

What is the circle of blessing (Eph. 6:1-3) and how do parents teach their children to live within it? How should parents respond when their children live outside of it? 

The critical component for parents in training their children to honor and obey is consistency. 

Proverbs says, "Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him." (13:24)

What does the use of the rod look like for the Christian parent? How should it be employed and what are the limitations? Finally, there are three abuses of the rod that parents sometimes partake in - be careful not to do these!

Why has the use of the rod fallen out of favor in our culture? 

What is God's purpose in commanding that parents use the rod in the correction of children? 

Rom. 5:12-18; Eph. 2:1-3, Proverbs 22:15, 23:13-14

What situations do parents encounter where they should NOT use the rod?