Ephesians 6:4
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath - Avoid all severity; this will hurt your own souls, and do them no good; on the contrary, if punished with severity or cruelty, they will be only hardened and made desperate in their sins. Cruel parents generally have bad children. He who corrects his children according to God and reason will feel every blow on his own heart more sensibly than his child feels it on his body. Parents are called to correct; not to punish, their children. Those who punish them do it from a principle of revenge; those who correct them do it from a principle of affectionate concern. Bring them up, etc - Εκτρεφετε αυτα εν παιδειᾳ και νουθεσια Κυριου· literally, Nourish them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. The mind is to be nourished with wholesome discipline and instruction, as the body is with proper food. Παιδεια, discipline, may refer to all that knowledge which is proper for children, including elementary principles and rules for behavior, etc. Νουθεσια, instruction, may imply whatever is necessary to form the mind; to touch, regulate, and purify the passions; and necessarily includes the whole of religion. Both these should be administered in the Lord - according to his will and word, and in reference to his eternal glory. All the important lessons and doctrines being derived from his revelation, therefore they are called the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
fathers--including mothers; the fathers are specified as being the fountains of domestic authority. Fathers are more prone to passion in relation to their children than mothers, whose fault is rather over-indulgence. provoke not--irritate not, by vexatious commands, unreasonable blame, and uncertain temper [ALFORD]. Col 3:21, "lest they be discouraged." nurture--Greek, "discipline," namely, training by chastening in act where needed (Job 5:17; Heb 12:7). admonition--training by words (Deu 6:7; "catechise," Pro 22:6, Margin), whether of encouragement, or remonstrance, or reproof, according as is required [TRENCH]. Contrast Sa1 3:13, Margin. of the Lord--such as the Lord approves, and by His Spirit dictates.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath,.... Neither by words; by unjust and, unreasonable commands; by contumelious and reproachful language; by frequent and public chidings, and by indiscreet and passionate expressions: nor by deeds; preferring one to another; by denying them the necessaries of life; by not allowing them proper recreation; by severe and cruel blows, and inhuman usage; by not giving them suitable education; by an improper disposal of them in marriage; and by profusely spending their estates, and leaving nothing to them: not but that parents may, and ought to correct and rebuke their children; nor are they accountable to them for their conduct; yet they should take care not to provoke them to wrath, because this alienates their minds from them, and renders their instructions and corrections useless, and puts them upon sinful practices; wrath lets in Satan, and leads to sin against God; and indeed it is difficult in the best of men to be angry and not sin; see Col 3:21. Fathers are particularly mentioned, they being the heads of families, and are apt to be too severe, as mothers too indulgent. But bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; instructing them in the knowledge of divine things, setting them good examples, taking care to prevent their falling into bad company, praying with them, and for them, bringing them into the house of God, under the means of grace, to attend public worship; all which, under a divine blessing, may be very useful to them; the example of Abraham is worthy of imitation, Gen 18:19, and the advice of the wise man deserves attention, Pro 22:6.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:4 Fathers can often provoke their children to anger by being harsh or unjust (see Col 3:21). Parents should give their children the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord (or the discipline and instruction about the Lord) so that they will learn a way of living that is good and pleases God. Such discipline is not to be excessive, but loving and gentle, so that children are not turned from the Lord but are drawn to him (cp. Heb 12:5-11).
Ephesians 6:4
Children and Parents
3“that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.”4Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Godly Home) Part 1 - the Holy Art of Training Children
By Denny Kenaston11K38:33Godly Home SeriesPSA 127:3PRO 22:6ISA 59:19MAL 2:15MAL 4:5MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a green thumb and the art of polishing stones. He compares these skills to the art of preaching and teaching the word of God. The speaker also shares a personal experience in an African village, highlighting the need for godly families as a standard against the enemy. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing gratitude for the journey they have been on and the impact it has had on their faith.
Children
By Charles Stanley6.4K06:00ChildrenDEU 6:6PSA 127:3PRO 1:8PRO 22:6EPH 6:4COL 3:21JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that while parents have a responsibility to teach and guide their children in their faith, ultimately each child must develop their own belief system and relationship with God. The speaker highlights the importance of providing a loving and supportive environment for children to grow in their faith, tailoring their expressions of love to meet each child's unique needs. The speaker also addresses the guilt that parents may feel when their children do not turn out as expected, reminding them that children are individuals with their own struggles and challenges. The sermon concludes with the reminder that training a child in the way they should go requires individualized attention and patient listening.
(Biblical Family) Child Training
By Voddie Baucham5.7K49:20DEU 6:6PRO 13:24PRO 22:15PRO 23:13PRO 29:15MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of training and teaching others to preach the word of God effectively. He encourages a hands-on approach, where the speaker acts as a stranger and the trainee practices greeting and engaging with them. The speaker also discusses the concept of delayed obedience, highlighting the need for immediate obedience to God's commands. He shares a personal anecdote about confronting someone who was being disobedient and the impact it had on his son. Overall, the video emphasizes the importance of training and obedience in spreading the message of God.
Spirit Filled Family
By Zac Poonen4.5K1:24:45FamilyPRO 22:15EPH 5:19EPH 6:4EPH 6:9In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of a garden to illustrate the importance of putting effort into a marriage. He emphasizes the need for constant communication and teaching of Christian principles to children in everyday life. The speaker also highlights the significance of discipline in shaping a child's behavior. The ultimate goal is to create a home that reflects the atmosphere of heaven, where the bride (the wife) invites her beloved (Jesus Christ) into the garden (the marriage) to enjoy its pleasant fruits.
Biblical Manhood, Then and Now
By Paul Washer4.5K55:43Biblical ManhoodROM 1:21ROM 1:28EPH 5:23EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of children's exposure to ungodly media and the negative influence it has on them. He challenges the idea of youth groups and the concept of socialization, arguing that they often contradict Scripture. The speaker emphasizes that the rampant immorality in the West is a sign that we are already under the judgment of God. He urges parents to prioritize teaching their children to love the Lord and encourages them to study Deuteronomy 6 for guidance. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the listeners to be moved to search the Scriptures and be obedient.
(Godly Home) Part 3 - the Eternal Value of a Child
By Denny Kenaston4.3K39:45Godly Home SeriesDEU 6:6PSA 127:3PSA 139:13PRO 22:6MAT 28:19MRK 10:14EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in the relationship between parents and their children. He shares a story of a couple seeking advice on child training, highlighting the need for parents to prioritize their children's spiritual well-being. The speaker then discusses the significance of having a vision for raising children and calls upon God to transform the hearts of parents. He concludes by urging parents to consider what they are willing to sacrifice for the sake of their children's souls.
(Godly Home) Part 10 - the Hearts of the Fathers Must Turn
By Denny Kenaston4.1K42:49Godly Home SeriesEXO 20:12PSA 127:3PRO 22:6MAL 4:5MAT 6:33EPH 6:4COL 3:21In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of relationships, particularly the relationship between fathers and their children. He shares a story about a father who neglects his child's desire for attention and approval, causing the child to turn to other influences. Brother Denny then references Malachi 4:5-6, which speaks of the coming of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers to their children and vice versa. He highlights the need for a heart change and repentance in order to truly nurture and raise children for God.
(Godly Home) Part 11 - the Rod Is Love
By Denny Kenaston4.1K41:18Godly Home SeriesPSA 119:32PRO 13:24PRO 19:18PRO 22:6MAT 6:33EPH 6:4HEB 12:6In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the importance of disciplining children through spanking. He shares a story of a family who struggled to control their children's behavior and eventually decided to implement spanking as a form of discipline. The mother followed Brother Denny's advice and prepared to spank her son, but he pleaded with her to wait. Brother Denny emphasizes the biblical principle of using the rod of discipline to show love and guide children towards obedience. He also highlights the promise of God being our loving father in the new covenant.
(Godly Home) Part 16 - Train Up a Child
By Denny Kenaston3.9K41:10Godly Home SeriesDEU 6:6PRO 3:11PRO 22:6PRO 29:17EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of teaching and training children in the ways of God. He uses examples from everyday life, such as fixing fences and building lofts, to illustrate the learning experiences that children can go through. The preacher also highlights the significance of instilling virtues and a sense of duty in children, which can develop their character over time. He shares a personal story of his son milking goats at a young age, demonstrating the value of responsibility and commitment. Overall, the sermon encourages parents to actively engage in teaching and training their children, using the Bible as their guide.
(Godly Home) Part 18 - Three Mysterious Influences in the Home
By Denny Kenaston3.8K41:35Godly Home SeriesDEU 6:6PSA 1:2PSA 112:1PSA 127:1PRO 22:6MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living in vital reality with God in a home. He uses the analogy of a willow tree planted by a watercourse to illustrate the abundant growth and prosperity that comes from being connected to God. The speaker shares a story of a young boy who, through the prayers of his devoted mother, experiences a powerful conversion and becomes a testimony for God. The speaker also addresses the question of how to encourage children to engage in spiritual disciplines like fasting and prayer, emphasizing the importance of making it a voluntary choice rather than imposing laws.
(Godly Home) Part 17 - a Quiet, Ordered Life
By Denny Kenaston3.8K40:30Godly Home SeriesPSA 23:1PRO 22:6ISA 32:15ISA 32:17MAT 6:33EPH 6:4COL 3:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building a strong relationship with one's children in order to establish authority. He highlights the need for parents to earn the respect and obedience of their children by walking with God and sacrificing for them. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of consistency in directing and disciplining children, as they are discerning and quickly learn where the boundaries are. He contrasts the correction and spanking mode of parenting with the leadership and guidance approach, emphasizing that God our Father is primarily a leader and not just a corrector.
(Godly Home) Part 12 - a Sacred Exercise
By Denny Kenaston3.5K40:37Godly Home SeriesPRO 13:24PRO 22:6PRO 29:17MAT 6:33EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:11In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the topic of discipline and its importance in raising children. He emphasizes the need to approach discipline with a spirit of love and compassion, rather than anger. Brother Denny encourages parents to take the time to properly discipline their children, even if it may seem like a lengthy process. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from God and allowing Him to lead in the discipline process. After the spanking, Brother Denny emphasizes the need for affirmation and comforting the child, showing them love and understanding.
(Godly Home) Part 7 - More Pictures of Promise
By Denny Kenaston3.4K42:02Godly Home SeriesGEN 12:2DEU 6:6PSA 127:3PRO 22:6MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a vision for our lives and for our families. He explains that when we have a clear vision, it creates a desire in our hearts to move towards that vision. This desire then opens our hearts to receive instruction and correction. The preacher uses the analogy of a soldier making arrows to illustrate the focused mindset we should have while working towards our vision. He also challenges the notion of just hoping that our children will turn out alright, instead urging us to have a purpose and vision for their lives as well.
(Godly Home) Part 19 - Children - a Dwelling Place for the Living God
By Denny Kenaston3.4K41:46Godly Home SeriesPSA 127:3ISA 66:11CO 6:192CO 6:16EPH 2:10EPH 6:41TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment for children in our homes. He encourages parents to be vigilant in monitoring what influences their children's minds, wills, emotions, and bodies. The speaker uses a diagram to explain that God created humans as tri-part beings, consisting of a physical body, a soul (mind, will, and emotions), and a spirit. He highlights the significance of parents guiding their children's minds, wills, and emotions, and shares examples of individuals who experienced a powerful transformation when the Holy Spirit entered their lives. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's wisdom in raising children.
Be Prepared to Worship
By Paul Washer3.3K05:28WorshipPSA 139:13MAT 6:6MAT 18:20MAT 22:37JHN 1:9EPH 6:4HEB 10:25In this sermon, the speaker begins by praising and worshiping God for His love and faithfulness. He emphasizes that God has always been our protector, even before we knew Him. The speaker encourages the congregation to see Christ as more precious and beautiful every day and to love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. He also emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment of being with God's people and preparing the hearts of children to come to worship. The speaker urges the congregation to worship the Lord privately as well as collectively and asks for forgiveness and restoration in this area.
Who Is Guarding the Front Door of Your Home?
By David Wilkerson3.1K1:02:51NEH 7:3PSA 127:3PRO 22:6ISA 44:3EPH 6:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of guarding our homes and families against the influences of the world, especially in raising children in a godly way. It addresses the challenges faced by parents, particularly single mothers, in protecting their children from negative influences and guiding them in the ways of the Lord. The message calls for a deep reliance on God's promises, prayer, and setting spiritual standards in the home to counter the worldly influences that seek to harm our families.
(Basics) 51. Bringing Up Godly Children
By Zac Poonen2.9K13:01GEN 1:28DEU 6:6PRO 22:6MAL 2:14MAL 3:14MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of teaching children to be honest and responsible. He uses the example of a child stealing a pencil and explains how ignoring such behavior can lead to more serious wrongdoing in the future. The responsibility of raising godly children primarily falls on fathers, as stated in Ephesians 6:4. The speaker also highlights the significance of discipline and instruction in shaping children's character. He concludes by discussing the role of the Christian home in countering the attacks of Satan and God's plan for raising children.
The Call of God - a Loving Father in Heaven
By Zac Poonen2.7K1:23:17Character Of GodGEN 3:15JOB 13:15PSA 23:1MAT 6:33EPH 6:41TI 4:8HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding comfort and consolation in God during times of tribulation. He highlights the repetition of the words "comfort" and "consolation" in the Bible verses, emphasizing the role of God as the source of comfort. The speaker shares his personal experience of how his love for God has transformed his ministry, making it a joyful and effortless task. He also discusses the need for individuals to break free from the rut of religious traditions and external standards, and instead seek a deep and personal relationship with God.
Who Is Guarding the Front Door of Your Home
By David Wilkerson2.1K1:02:51NEH 7:3PSA 127:3PRO 22:6ISA 44:3EPH 6:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of guarding our homes and families against the influences of the world, addressing issues like the spiritual battle for our children, the need for parents to be vigilant gatekeepers, and the power of prayer and faith in raising godly children. It also touches on the dangers of bitterness, the impact of media and music on our youth, and the call for parents to establish family altars and seek God's wisdom in guiding their children.
Husbands and Fathers - Part 4
By Derek Prince1.9K28:26GEN 18:17DEU 11:18ACT 16:31EPH 6:41TI 3:4This sermon emphasizes the role of fathers as spiritual leaders in their families, drawing insights from the story of Paul and the jailer in Philippi, the responsibilities of fathers as priests, prophets, and kings in their households, and the importance of fulfilling the duty of teaching and guiding their children in the ways of the Lord. It highlights the need for fathers to acknowledge their responsibility, humble themselves before God, trust in His grace, be diligent in their role, and prioritize their family above all else.
01 Welcome by Brother Denny and Sister Jackie Kenaston
By Denny Kenaston1.9K09:47PSA 127:3PRO 22:6EPH 6:4COL 3:201TI 5:8Brother Denny and his wife Jackie introduce the Godly Home series, sharing the unexpected journey of how it began and the impact it has had over the years. They highlight the importance of biblical teaching on the home, the wisdom gained through parenting and grandparenting, and the need to open hearts to God's voice for transformation. The sermon also includes a detailed introduction to their family, showcasing the diverse paths their children have taken in serving the Lord through missions and ministry.
The Old-Fashioned Christian Home
By Denny Kenaston1.9K1:18:45Christian HomeDEU 6:6PSA 127:1PSA 127:3PRO 22:6PRO 31:10ACT 16:25EPH 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of returning to the old-fashioned Christian values and practices in order to build strong and successful families. He highlights the fast-paced and instant nature of modern society, contrasting it with the slower and more intentional approach of the past. The preacher calls for fathers, mothers, and children to come together in prayer and unity, supporting and submitting to one another. He also emphasizes the need to teach children the value of hard work and the importance of the work ethic in order to avoid a materialistic and self-centered mindset. The preacher encourages a return to the old-fashioned order and values, emphasizing the need to prioritize spiritual growth and family unity.
Ravenhill Humor - Who's the Author
By Leonard Ravenhill1.8K00:56Ravenhill HumorGEN 2:18DEU 6:7PSA 127:3PRO 1:8PRO 22:6MAT 19:6EPH 6:4In the sermon, the speaker mentions the famous story of Rip Van Winkle, which is well-known around the world, including in Russia. However, the speaker asks the audience if they know who wrote the story, and reveals that it was written by Washington Irving. The speaker then expresses surprise at someone named Mike not knowing the author, suggesting that he needs to go to school instead of going to Australia. The speaker also mentions homeschooling and new students, implying that there is a connection between education and knowledge of literature.
1 Samuel 4:13
By Joshua Daniel1.8K1:10:051SA 4:131SA 4:192SA 2:172SA 2:22PSA 51:10PRO 28:131CO 10:12EPH 6:42TI 2:22HEB 12:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of trembling for the presence of God, using the story of Eli and his sons as a cautionary tale. It highlights the consequences of hidden sin and the need for obedience and righteousness in families and individuals to avoid spiritual defeat and leaving a negative legacy. The speaker urges self-examination, repentance, and a focus on building a consistent, faithful life that honors God and leaves a positive spiritual heritage.
The Defeated Father
By Emanuel Esh1.7K1:38:42Father2SA 3:27MAT 6:33EPH 6:4COL 3:21In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of defeat in our homes and provides guidance on how to overcome it. He shares his own experience of raising four daughters and how they were initially losing them until his wife took a firmer approach. He emphasizes the importance of establishing children in the ways of God to withstand the trials and challenges of the world. The speaker also references a biblical passage in which David advises his son Solomon on walking with God and taking care of details.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath - Avoid all severity; this will hurt your own souls, and do them no good; on the contrary, if punished with severity or cruelty, they will be only hardened and made desperate in their sins. Cruel parents generally have bad children. He who corrects his children according to God and reason will feel every blow on his own heart more sensibly than his child feels it on his body. Parents are called to correct; not to punish, their children. Those who punish them do it from a principle of revenge; those who correct them do it from a principle of affectionate concern. Bring them up, etc - Εκτρεφετε αυτα εν παιδειᾳ και νουθεσια Κυριου· literally, Nourish them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. The mind is to be nourished with wholesome discipline and instruction, as the body is with proper food. Παιδεια, discipline, may refer to all that knowledge which is proper for children, including elementary principles and rules for behavior, etc. Νουθεσια, instruction, may imply whatever is necessary to form the mind; to touch, regulate, and purify the passions; and necessarily includes the whole of religion. Both these should be administered in the Lord - according to his will and word, and in reference to his eternal glory. All the important lessons and doctrines being derived from his revelation, therefore they are called the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
fathers--including mothers; the fathers are specified as being the fountains of domestic authority. Fathers are more prone to passion in relation to their children than mothers, whose fault is rather over-indulgence. provoke not--irritate not, by vexatious commands, unreasonable blame, and uncertain temper [ALFORD]. Col 3:21, "lest they be discouraged." nurture--Greek, "discipline," namely, training by chastening in act where needed (Job 5:17; Heb 12:7). admonition--training by words (Deu 6:7; "catechise," Pro 22:6, Margin), whether of encouragement, or remonstrance, or reproof, according as is required [TRENCH]. Contrast Sa1 3:13, Margin. of the Lord--such as the Lord approves, and by His Spirit dictates.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath,.... Neither by words; by unjust and, unreasonable commands; by contumelious and reproachful language; by frequent and public chidings, and by indiscreet and passionate expressions: nor by deeds; preferring one to another; by denying them the necessaries of life; by not allowing them proper recreation; by severe and cruel blows, and inhuman usage; by not giving them suitable education; by an improper disposal of them in marriage; and by profusely spending their estates, and leaving nothing to them: not but that parents may, and ought to correct and rebuke their children; nor are they accountable to them for their conduct; yet they should take care not to provoke them to wrath, because this alienates their minds from them, and renders their instructions and corrections useless, and puts them upon sinful practices; wrath lets in Satan, and leads to sin against God; and indeed it is difficult in the best of men to be angry and not sin; see Col 3:21. Fathers are particularly mentioned, they being the heads of families, and are apt to be too severe, as mothers too indulgent. But bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; instructing them in the knowledge of divine things, setting them good examples, taking care to prevent their falling into bad company, praying with them, and for them, bringing them into the house of God, under the means of grace, to attend public worship; all which, under a divine blessing, may be very useful to them; the example of Abraham is worthy of imitation, Gen 18:19, and the advice of the wise man deserves attention, Pro 22:6.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:4 Fathers can often provoke their children to anger by being harsh or unjust (see Col 3:21). Parents should give their children the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord (or the discipline and instruction about the Lord) so that they will learn a way of living that is good and pleases God. Such discipline is not to be excessive, but loving and gentle, so that children are not turned from the Lord but are drawn to him (cp. Heb 12:5-11).