Rebellion

Over lunch the other day I was discussing with a few folks the problem of rebellious children. Much is clear in the Scripture regarding our handling of the children God has gifted to us.  Some of what is said is very strong (see for example Deuteronomy 21:18ff), and certainly the wisdom of Solomon (read: God) in Proverbs is mandatory reading for anyone with children.

I have a great concern for our children (of whatever age) who may not be rebellious toward parental or governmental authority (e.g. the police) yet demonstrate a clear rebellion toward God. Failing to live a life of Godliness and faith, and a lack of commitment to one’s calling to ministry to others, is often overlooked in children, pre-teens and teenagers. Those two attributes are not restricted to “adults,” but rather, are vital to the life of a believer of any age.

When a child (someone who lives at home under the influence of parental authority) is redeemed, regardless of the age of that child, we must expect, even demand, that they live in obedience to the revealed Word of God. We cannot excuse a believer, of any age, from the demands of Scripture. Teenage, or even pre-teen rebellion is a sin against God and God’s people. Ignorance of the Word of God cannot be overlooked because one is “young.” Rebellion is not “normal,” rather it is typical of a life either without the Spirit, or failing to continue under the the control of the Spirit. The former carries the penalty of separation from God forever. The latter, a life condemned to failure and defeat.

The Church (and parents, of course) must llove our children, teach them the Truth, and maintain high expectations that they will live under its authority. Nothing less will do.