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Family

Family

Jehovah created the family

Parents

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Fathers

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Mothers

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Husbands, Wives

See “Marriage

Sons and Daughters

What are the responsibilities of children in the family?

Why should children obey their parents?

Eph 6:1-3; Col 3:20

  • Relevant Bible account(s):

    • Ps 78:1-8​—The Israelites recount to their children the deeds of their forefathers so that the children will put their confidence in God and not become rebellious

    • Lu 2:51, 52​—Although perfect, Jesus remains obedient to his imperfect human parents throughout his youth

Why may children find it difficult to respect their parents?

How does God view rebellious children?

  • Relevant Bible account(s):

    • De 21:18-21​—The Mosaic Law applies the death penalty to a son who grows up to be a stubborn and rebellious drunkard and refuses to be corrected

    • 2Ki 2:23, 24​—When a group of boys ridicule the prophet Elisha, grossly despising God’s representative, many are devoured by two bears

How should parents view the privilege of raising children?

Ps 127:3; 128:3

  • Relevant Bible account(s):

    • Le 26:9​—To the Israelites, bearing children is a sign of Jehovah’s blessing

    • Job 42:12, 13​—Jehovah blesses Job for his remarkable integrity by giving him and his wife ten more children

How can siblings treat each other in a way that honors Jehovah?

Ps 34:14; Pr 15:23; 19:11

  • Relevant Bible account(s):

    • Ge 27:41; 33:1-11​—Jacob honors his brother, Esau, paving the way for peace, and Esau responds with affection

What responsibility do grown children have toward parents and grandparents?

Pr 23:22; 1Ti 5:4

  • Relevant Bible account(s):

    • Ge 11:31, 32​—When moving away from Ur, Abraham brings along his father, Terah, and cares for him until his death

    • Mt 15:3-6​—Jesus uses the Mosaic Law to show that grown children should give support to parents in need

In-Laws

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Grandparents

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