What does the Bible say about being a parent?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that parenting is a God-given calling to receive children as His gifts, lovingly nurture them, and guide them in the fear and instruction of the Lord. Psalm 127:3-5 calls children a heritage from God, while Proverbs 22:6 urges parents to train a child in the way he should go. Fathers especially are commanded not to provoke or discourage their children, but to bring them up with patient discipline and instruction in the Lord (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21). Wise correction is part of faithful love (Proverbs 13:24; 29:15), yet parents must model honor, wisdom, and grace. Children, in turn, are called to obey and honor their parents (Ephesians 6:1-3; Exodus 20:12).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 22:6 6 votes
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
- Ephesians 6:4 5 votes
You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Colossians 3:21 4 votes
Fathers, don't provoke your children, so that they won't be discouraged.
- Ephesians 6:1-4 3 votes
[1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. [2] "Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with a promise: [3] "that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth." [4] You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Psalms 127:3-5 2 votes
[3] Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward. [4] As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, So are the children of youth. [5] Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. They won't be disappointed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.
- Proverbs 29:15 2 votes
The rod of correction gives wisdom, But a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
- Proverbs 13:24 2 votes
One who spares the rod hates his son, But one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
- Proverbs 1:8-9 2 votes
[8] My son, listen to your father's instruction, And don't forsake your mother's teaching: [9] For they will be a garland to grace your head, And chains around your neck.
- Psalms 127:3 2 votes
Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward.
- Exodus 20:12 2 votes
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which Yahweh your God gives you.
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