Text:
Matthew 4:17-22
Memory Verse: “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
Meet the Zebedee family: father, mother and their two sons – James and John. A wealthy, but religious Jewish family of fishermen from Bethsaida. How you raise your family will determine many things. It is said that, ‘a family that prays together stays together.’ This family also worked together. James and John were in the boat with their father and hired servants when Jesus called them to follow Him. Their background must have made the decision easier, and both went on to become two of the three closest Apostles to the Master. They were surnamed ‘sons of thunder’, were privileged to witness the transfiguration and were with Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane.
Mrs Zebedee, a mother who wanted the best for her children, remained in Christ and with the brethren (Matthew 27:56).John Zebedee became John the Apostle, the disciple whom Jesus loved, and was the author of five books of the Bible – the gospel of John, 1st, 2nd, 3rd John and Revelation. John’s mission in writing was clearly stated in John 20:30 & 31, “… but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you
may have life in His name.” His account of Jesus’ life not only detailed events, but explained their spiritual implications. He saw visions of the future in Revelation. James Zebedee became James the Great, who was martyred for his faith (Acts 12:2).
How are you raising your children? Teach them the way of God. When they are old, they will not depart from it.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, teach me to raise my children in the knowledge and fear of God.
2. Fulfil Your promise in Proverbs 22:6 in my family, O Lord.
