INTRODUCTION:

A. In the preceding studies we have considered:
  1. Jesus as an example to follow concerning manhood.
  2. Jesus as an example concerning women.
 3. In the studies, the example of Jesus is clear.
B. Now we consider his example toward children.
 1. He had grown to adulthood in a home.
 2. He manifested His treatment of children in word and deed.
 3. The example here is instructive.
C. Note three themes from His word and deed.

DISCUSSION:

 JESUS UPHELD THE PURITY AND STABILITY OF THE HOME; EACH CHILD HAS THE 
 RIGHT AND NEED TO GROW UP IN SUCH A HOME (Matthew 19:3-9).

 A. The stability of the home (v. 3).
 B. The significance of what is "written" (v. 4).
 C. Man and woman as God intended (v. 4).
 D. Home joined of God, not to be broken (vv. 5,6).
 E. Hardness of heart avoided (v. 8).
 F. Only adultery will allow for divorce and remarriage (v. 9).
 G. Consider the impact of such a home on children.

II. JESUS TAUGHT CONCERNING CHILDREN AND FAMILY ON OCCASION (Luke  15:11-32).

 A.  We must, on occasion, allow children to make mistakes.
 B. Children in the home form deep impressions and remember for good.
 C. Love and longing for children, even when doing wrong, are most important.
 D. Mistakes, when made and admitted, can be overcome.
 E. Times of joy and gladness, with encouragement, are most important.
 F. Different children must be nurtured in different ways.
 G. Jesus knew the principles and portrayed them in this example.
 

III. ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES FROM HIS MINISTRY.

 A. Young children brought to Him (Mark 10:13-16).
 B. The son of the nobleman (John 4:46 -51).
 C. The place of love in these matters (Matthew 10:37,38).
 D. His compassion for a widow with one son (Luke 7:13).

CONCLUSION:

 Jesus, in  many-faceted examples, taught concerning the husband, wife, family, and children in the 
 home and in life.
B. These principles guide us in our own families.

        William Woodson