Restoring Relationships Through Honor and Obedience

Introduction

Opening Prayer

Introduction to Ephesians 6:1-4: Importance of family in God's design.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” 4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord

Personal Connection: Acknowledge the struggles many face with family relationships, especially in the journey of recovery.

Intended | P’shat | Context to discover the Point

Headline: Understanding the Context

Key Verse: Ephesians 6:1-4 NIV

Context Questions:

Who wrote Ephesians? (Paul)

Why did Paul write this? (To guide early Christians on how to live godly lives)

What was the societal view on family during that time?

In the biblical era, families were hierarchical and patriarchal.

Historical Insight: Family structures and their importance in the biblical era.

Family units were the cornerstone of society

Action Point: Explain how Paul’s message about family was revolutionary and how it applies today, especially to those rebuilding their lives.

It emphasized mutual respect and love within the family, rather than just obedience and authority.

Rebuilding lives involves restoring family relationships based on respect, honor, and godly principles.

Implied | R’mez | Connections to discover the Principle

Headline: Discovering the Principle

Specific Question: What principle can we apply to our lives today

Supporting Scriptures:

Proverbs 22:6 (Train up a child)

Proverbs 22:6 NIV

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Colossians 3:20-21 (Children obey, Fathers do not embitter)

Colossians 3:20–21 NIV

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Exodus 20:12 (Honor your father and mother)

Exodus 20:12 NIV

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

Principle Statement:

“Respecting and honoring family paves the way for a fulfilling life, grounded in God’s promises.”

Illustrative Story: Share a personal or biblical story that reinforces the long-term benefits of honoring parents and nurturing children.

“My father and mother’s apololgy story”

Action Point: Summarize the principle in a memorable way.

Interpreted | D’rash | Collaboration to discover the Purpose

Headline: Interpreting Our Roles

Character Perspective: Choose to view from a child's or parent's eyes within the Teen Challenge community.

Rewrite the Passage: Encourage participants to rewrite

Ephesians 6:1-4 from their perspective.

Thoughts and Feelings: Reflect on their current struggles and hopes for restoration.

Personal Testimony Space: Share your personal testimony related to family restoration.

“My story of forgiving my mother”

Action Point: Use creative tools (e.g., role-playing) to express and share their reflections.

Inspired | S’od | Contemplation to discover the Practice

Headline: Contemplating and Applying the Message

Personal Questions:

“Lord, how can I better honor my parents and mentor my children?”

“What might be hidden in this passage that speaks to my journey?”

Encouragement Tools:

Journaling about what God is revealing to them.

Practical steps to reach out and restore broken relationships.

Conclusion

Time of Prayer and Reflection

Prayer Points:

Healing and restoration in family relationships.Strength and wisdom to honor and nurture their families.Guidance for those separated from their families.

Reflection:

Allow time for silent prayer and journaling.Encourage participants to write down what God has spoken to them.

Application:

Challenge them to take one step towards restoring a family relationship this week.Provide contact information for ongoing support and counseling.

Closing Prayer

Invite the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts and bring about restoration and healing in their families.

End with a worship song that reinforces the message of hope and restoration.