Strong Families: Strong Children (Ephesians 6:1-3)

Ice Breaker: “House Rules”

Ask the group: What was the funniest, strangest, or most memorable rule your parents had growing up?

Examples:

• “No feet on the furniture.”

• “Nothing good happens after midnight.”

• “You can’t leave the table until you eat your vegetables.”

Then follow up with:

• Did you understand the rule back then?

• Do you find yourself saying the same thing now to your own kids?

Read these passages together:

Ephesians 6:1-3, Colossians 3:20

 Discussion Questions

1. When you hear the word honor, what comes to mind? How is honor different from simple obedience?
2. Why do you believe God places such importance on honoring parents within the family structure?
3. Looking back on your own childhood, who modeled honor well for you? What impact did that have on your life?
4. In what ways can adults continue to honor their parents even after leaving home and starting their own families?
5. Are there areas where honoring your parents feels difficult because of past hurt, disappointment, or conflict? How can God help you navigate that biblically as you grow in spiritual maturity and obedience?
6. Ephesians 6 connects honor with blessing. How have you seen honoring authority and family relationships bring stability or blessing in life?
7. Colossians 3:20 says obedience “pleases the Lord.” How does viewing honor as worship to God change your perspective?
8. Jesus perfectly honored His earthly parents and His Heavenly Father. What stands out to you about His example?
9. What practical ways can you as a parent encourage a culture of honor, respect, and grace within your home?
10. What is one step you can take this week to intentionally show honor—to your parents, your children, or another authority figure in your life?

Prayer Prompts

1. Lord, strengthen my family and help our home reflect Your love, grace, and truth.
2. Father, give me a humble heart that honors others well, even when it is difficult.
3. God, bring healing and restoration where there has been hurt, conflict, or brokenness in family relationships.
4. Jesus, help me as a parent lead with wisdom and love, and to lead my children to grow in obedience and respect.
5. Lord, help me follow the example of Jesus by living a life that honors You in my relationships and choices.