The Gospel- simple/complex
I Corinthians 1;18 -31 talks about the nature of the message of Christ and how different groups view it. This is worthy of our reflection as Dads. Our children and us live in a world in which the gospel is welcomed by some, seen as problematic by others, and as irrelevant by still others.
Teaching our Children to see the world through the gospel message requires reflection on both the simplicity of the gospel and its complexity. How does a sinner come into relationship with a holy God? There is the simplicity expressed in the song, “Jesus Loves Me”, yet the complexity of atonement.
Concepts such as justification, santification, grace, and faith in Christ, which are fundamental to reality are things that as fathers we should reflect on. They will help us see the simplicity of the gospel, and also the complexity of the wisdom. It will bring about a sense of wonder.
Communicating to our children that some people are put off by both the simplicity and the complexity of the gospel is important. The will understand that not everyone see in Christ what they see. Showing them that from the beginning that this has been so, may help not be overwhelmed by the fact that many are not accepting of the Gospel.
They will also see that truth is not measured by popularity. Because many are looking through other philosophies they are repulsed by Christianity. (see I Corinthians 1:18-31 again). The gospel does not fit what they esteem.
We need to explain the simplicity and the intricacies of the gospel to our children so that they can detect when someone who is attacking the gospel, does not understand the wonder of what God has done. This explanation will need to happen over a number of years, since a child of six can not grasp what a child of fifteen can.
Think about what the gospel says about reality and priorities so that you will be able to talk to your children as they try to understand why the gospel is good news.