Dr. Mark Creech – Fathers’ Day 6/19/2016 AM
“The Challenge of Being a Godly Father”
(1 Samuel 2 – 4)
Central Truth:
Fathers, the spiritual head of the family, have a powerful influence on their children. The task requires men who love God and are committed to obediently following Him. They must passionately invest in their children to develop Godliness in them.
Truth No. 1 (1 Samuel 2:12-17)
TREAT THE THINGS OF GOD WITH HONOR.
· Eli’s sons treated the sacrificial system as a means for personal gain, which created disdain among the people for the sacrifice.
· As High Priest, Eli received benefit from their corruption, signaling to the people a low value for God.
· Lead your children to personal faith in Christ. Eli’s sons, “did not know the Lord.”
· Teach your children God’s ways. Eli failed to teach his sons to respect God. Your primary mission field, dads, is your family
Truth No. 2 (1 Samuel 2:22-35; 3:11-14)
CONSISTENTLY LIVE OUT FAITH IN GOD.
· Eli sat the door of the Tabernacle in a place of honor but did not correct his sons, yet he quickly corrected Hannah.
· Eli was harsh with Hannah, accusing her of drunkenness yet with his sons, he spoke of a bad report instead of confronting their sin.
· God set the example of justice as He dealt with Eli’s inconsistency and his sons’ sinfulness, both of which have consequences.
Truth No. 3 (1 Samuel 3)
INVEST BODY, SOUL, AND SPIRIT IN LEADING YOUR FAMILY.
· Eli liked the benefits of leadership—especially sitting in the seat of authority, but didn't take the responsibilities seriously.
· Eli had religion without reality. He worked and lived at the tabernacle, but the reality of walking with God was not present in his life.
· Leading your family as God desires takes hard work, prayer, and much grace. Lean wholly on God and He will supply all that you need to lead your family in ways that honor God.