What does the Bible say about child support?
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The Bible teaches that parents, especially fathers, bear a God-given responsibility to provide for and nurture their children, while the church and civil authorities may rightly protect those in need. First Timothy 5:8 strongly condemns neglect of one’s household, and 2 Corinthians 12:14 reflects the ordinary duty of parents to provide for their children. This support includes more than money: Proverbs 22:6 and Ephesians 6:4 call parents to patient instruction and godly discipline, while Psalm 127:3 honors children as the Lord’s gift. Luke 11:11-13 portrays a father’s caring provision as an imperfect reflection of God’s generosity. Neglectful shepherding is solemnly rebuked in Zechariah 11:17.
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- 1 Timothy 5:8
But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.
- 2 Corinthians 12:14
Behold, this is the third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you; for I seek not your possessions, but you. For the children ought not to save up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
- Zechariah 11:17
Woe to the worthless shepherd who leaves the flock! The sword will be on his arm, and on his right eye. His arm will be completely withered, and his right eye will be totally blinded!"
- Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
- Psalms 127:3
Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward.
- Ephesians 6:4
You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Luke 11:11-13
[11] "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he won't give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? [12] Or if he asks for an egg, he won't give him a scorpion, will he? [13] If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?"
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