KINGDOM PARENTING

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” – Proverbs 22:6

Impactful Parenting is the thrust of Myles Munroe’s and David Burrows’ book – ‘KINGDOM PARENTING’: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Pro.22:6). This highly instructive book on Parenting emphasizes applying the principles of God's Kingdom, based on the premise that a successful family is not a matter of luck but the result of intentional, purpose-driven parenting rooted in God's original design for humanity. It is structured into 3 parts of five chapters each, namely: Foundations; Building Relationships; and Connecting Principles. The fourth is a Study Guide.

Foundations: Parenthood is a reflection of God's Kingship. Parents are rulers over their family domain and are responsible for establishing a "kingdom" culture in their home that aligns with God's original, biblical plan for the family; embracing their roles as king and queen. Impactful parenting flows from the strength of the marriage. A fulfilling family begins with the parents' relationship. A healthy and godly marriage is the foundation for raising children who reflect the nature of God. Children are to honour their parents, but parents must first model the behaviour, character, and integrity they want to see in their children.

Goals of Kingdom Parenting are basically three. The first is to reproduce the parent’s nature in the child, just as God created humankind in His image. This implies cultivating the "nature" of God in the children's character. The second goal is to establish a transgenerational legacy. Parenting is not just for the present; it is about building a legacy of faith, while understanding that marriage is for producing godly offspring for His purposes, to ultimately bless humanity. The third and ultimate aim of Kingdom parenting is to raise children who reflect God’s image; for them to grow up to be a perfect representation of God, our original Parent. This happens as children learn to think and act like their Heavenly Father by observing their parents' example.

The father has a unique role as the spiritual source: the source of identity, spiritual teaching, and security for his offspring. A father's relationship with God is foundational to the spiritual health of the entire family. Protection, provision, and discipline are also key. Men are designed to protect and nourish their families, both spiritually and physically, including protecting them from negative societal influences and wrong doctrine. A father is a Disciplinarian with Love: His discipline should be corrective and loving, guiding children toward righteousness; commanding them to "keep the way of the Lord". 

Kingdom Parenting provides tools to help parents and teenagers navigate complex modern issues, including pornography, gambling, and other harmful lifestyle influences. It offers biblical principles to help families combat and overcome cultural pressures that often contradict biblical values.