What does the Bible say about step parents?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible calls step parents to receive their family role as a faithful stewardship, nurturing children with patient love, wise discipline, and a gospel-shaped example, while children are called to honor those who care for them. Though Scripture does not address modern blended families by name, its commands apply: parents should train children in the Lord without provoking or discouraging them (Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21). Loving correction is for a child’s good, not an outlet for anger (Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 29:15, 17). The household should reflect God’s mercy in Christ, who came not to condemn but to save (John 3:16-17), fostering respect, patience, and sacrificial care.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
- Ephesians 6:4
You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Colossians 3:21
Fathers, don't provoke your children, so that they won't be discouraged.
- John 3:16-17
[16] For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. [17] For God didn't send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him.
- Proverbs 29:17
Correct your son, and he will give you peace; Yes, he will bring delight to your soul.
- Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
- Exodus 20:12
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which Yahweh your God gives you.
- Proverbs 13:24
One who spares the rod hates his son, But one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
- Proverbs 29:15
The rod of correction gives wisdom, But a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
- 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.
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