Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.""And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord."
Text: Ephesians 6:4
THE ROLE OF MEN IN THE FAMILY
Their role as husband was carefully delineated by the apostle Paul. If the men became parents, they were enjoined to play an active role in the rearing of the children.
1. Things to avoid
Children must not be “provoked to wrath” (“parogizete”). What does this word mean?
a) A strong compound word
The root word is the usual word for anger (“orge”). A preposition (“para”) is added to give it greater force.
b) Derivative meaning
i) To cause anger (at the first level).
ii) To cause a deep-seated anger (the final result).
c) The blame (in this text) is placed on “the fathers” (“hoi pateres”).
2. Things to do
Children need guidance. They would be greatly helped if they are brought up carefully. Paul suggested two ideas in particular:-
a) “Bring them up”
This phrase translates one word (“ektrepho”). This same word was used by Paul earlier (Cf. Ephesians 5:29 “For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it…”). The challenge behind the word “ektrepho” is the idea of careful, gentle and loving concern.
b) “Training” (“paideia”)
This word suggests “discipline”. At one point or another, discipline must be considered and applied. A child who is wisely disciplined will grow up well.
c) “Admonition” (“nouthesia”)
This word “nouthesia” may be used in conjunction with counseling. Fathers are to devote time to counsel their children, giving them good and sound advice. If there are infringements, fathers are to help their children do better through “nouthesia” (counseling).
d) “In the Lord”
Paul uses this phrase repeatedly for good reason. Among other reasons, he wants his readers to remember to bring the Lord into the picture at all times.