Week 6: What does the Bible say about single parents / parenting?

Bible Study Lesson: Single Parents and Parenting in the Bible

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore what the Bible says about single parents and parenting. The Bible references several single parents who became such through various circumstances. While God's original design for the family includes both a mother and a father, He shows compassion and support for single parents, providing guidance and encouragement for their unique journey.

1. Biblical Examples of Single Parents

Hagar: The First Single Parent (Genesis 16:1–4, 10–12)

Background: Hagar, an Egyptian slave, became a single parent due to Abraham and Sarah's impatience with God's promise. She bore Abraham's child, Ishmael.God's Intervention: In her distress, Hagar cried out to God, and He responded with compassion. God assured her that He was with her and her son, Ishmael.Lesson for Single Parents: Just as God was with Hagar, He is with every single parent today. They can take comfort in knowing that God sees them and promises His presence and support.

Key Verse: Genesis 16:13

“She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: ‘You are the God who sees me,’ for she said, ‘I have now seen the One who sees me.’”

2. God's Compassion and Support

Psalm 68:5

Verse: “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.”

Meaning: God promises to be a father to the fatherless and a defender of widows and orphans, demonstrating His care for single-parent families.

Support Through the Church and Community

Role of the Church: The church is called to support single parents through fellowship, prayer, and practical help.

Community Help: Relatives, friends, and neighbors can also provide crucial support, ensuring that single parents are not alone in their journey.

3. Parenting with God's Guidance

Ephesians 6:4 and Colossians 3:21

Instruction: “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)

Application: God's instructions for parenting apply to all parents, whether single or married. Single parents are encouraged to raise their children in a godly manner.

Trusting God's Plan

God's Sovereignty: Every child is created by God with a purpose. Single parents can trust that God has a plan for their children's lives.

Responsibility: Parents are entrusted by God to raise their children with love, discipline, and godly instruction.

4. Jesus' Love for Children

Matthew 19:14

Verse: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”

Encouragement: Jesus has a special tenderness for children and cares deeply for them, regardless of their family situation.

5. Modeling Godly Behavior

Purity, Honor, and Honesty: Single parents can earn their children's respect by modeling these virtues.

God's Grace: Single parents can rest in the promise that God's grace will fill in the gaps as they strive to raise their children according to His will.

Psalm 27:10

Verse: “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”

Reassurance: God’s grace and support are always available, providing strength and comfort to single parents.

Conclusion

Single parents are not alone in their journey. God’s compassion, the support of the church, and His guiding principles provide a strong foundation for raising children. By trusting in God's plan, modeling godly behavior, and relying on His grace, single parents can successfully fulfill their role and ensure their children thrive.

Discussion Questions

How can the church better support single parents within the congregation?What practical steps can single parents take to ensure they are raising their children “in the training and instruction of the Lord”?How can we, as individuals, provide support to single parents in our community?