The primary disciple-makers in a child’s life are their parents, but the whole community of faith (including singles and seniors) also have an important role. Ironically, passing down the faith doesn’t begin with teaching. It begins with a declaration about God, and forces each person to first determine their response to that declaration: an invitation to love (be loyal, and faithful to) God with one’s entire being. It is a child-like dependence.

When Moses declares in verse 4, “The LORD our God, the LORD is one,” it was not meant to be an explanation about His nature, it was a declaration of faith. It was if God was saying through Moses, “I alone delivered you and I alone am bringing you into the Promised Land. There is no other God but me. Don’t forget me!” God does want to be separated from one’s everyday life, but at its center: defining, influencing, and shaping one’s deepest values and priorities. If a Christian wants to pass down the faith to the next generation, they must first maintain their personal relationship with God.

When Christian parents want to impress the faith to their children, God instructs them to do it by talking about him and his commandments “anytime, anywhere” (in our homes, out of our homes, sitting or walking, nighttime or daytime; vss 7-9). Teaching children the faith is not something we only do by way of words; we also teach by example, and by giving children experience exercising their faith. In all three scenarios, being present and available is essential!

It is easy to forget God, especially when life is good. Loving God with all of our being first, and then teaching our children the faith, will naturally lead to a time when our children will ask questions. Christians need be ready to answer with the appropriate vulnerability, sharing how God delivered them in the midst of crisis, or provided for them when they were in need, or restored them when you had fallen.

Discussion Question: How has someone spoken to you about Jesus?