Christian parenting doesn’t come with a rulebook. Thankfully, many publishers have provided parenting Bible studies to help those of us with children translate biblical truths into practical life at home. While these Bible studies on raising children aren’t equal to the power and authority of God’s Word, they can point us in the right direction and offer encouragement that God is working in our lives and in the lives of our kids. In his popular study Experiencing God, Henry Blackaby said that “children are a special assignment as well as a reward from the Lord.” In other words, God gives parents a unique opportunity to build His kingdom by raising children who will know Him and pursue Him.
Couples and Community
Before looking at some options for parenting Bible studies, it might be helpful to think about how you want to consume their content. In general, Bible studies for parents offer two approaches: couples and small groups. Both have their advantages.
For example, working through a parenting Bible study together as husband and wife can remind you and your spouse that you really are on the same team. You can talk together about struggles and reflect on how the principles apply specifically to your family’s situation. You get the win-win of strengthening your marriage and deepening your children’s connection to the Lord.
But there is also something to be said for working through a parenting Bible study with a small group of like-minded parents. By being part of a community, you can share one another’s burdens. You can pour into others as they pour into you. Plus, small groups provide safe places for support and accountability. It’s hard to feel like you’re alone or isolated when you’re plugged into the body of Christ.
Neither approach is better than the other. They are just different. The key is determining what’s right for your situation—and identifying the study that God can use to make a difference in your parenting.
7 Great Parenting Bibles Studies
As I mentioned earlier, you’ll never be at a loss for options when it comes to parenting Bible studies. Since the issues and questions touch on a variety of family situations and stages of life, you have a ton of choices.
Some are geared specifically for couples or those looking to lead their family in Bible study, others are designed for single parents or blended families. Many are topical, but you could also find some that focus on books of the Bible. Women’s studies emphasize the role of moms, while men’s studies offer help for dads.
The Bible studies for parents listed below are basically geared toward couples. Most can be studied as a couple or as a small group. They aren’t the only options out there, but they can whet your appetite and may provide a springboard toward confidence and assurance in your role as parents.
1. Developing the Spiritual Life of Children
Christianity Today’s website offers a wide variety of parenting Bible studies, including this six-session resource. The focus for this study is helping children develop some basic spiritual practices early in life, so they can own their faith and stand on a firm foundation as adults.
In this Bible study for parents, authors Russell Moore and Phillip Bethancourt tackle some of the most sensitive, yet relevant, worldview issues parents and children face today. Published by Lifeway, this resource examines tough topics like gender issues and same-sex marriage, as well some more “traditional” subjects like substance abuse and relationships. This could be a great resource for parents who want to have the hard biblical worldview conversations with their children, but they aren’t sure how or where to start.
For decades, Dr. Tony Evans has been a trusted voice for Christ followers around the world as a pastor and teacher. His “Kingdom” series of books and Bible studies have reached millions in recent years. This parenting study helps dads and moms understand their role in God’s larger plan for their children. At the same time, they get a fresh take of His plan for their own lives.
It’s been more than a decade since Dr. Kara Powell first introduced her “Sticky” research, but the content has staying power. In this five-session study, Powell, a professor of youth and family ministry at Fuller Seminary, unpacks some core principles for helping children of all ages develop a faith that sticks. One of the benefits of this study is its wide selection of companion resources to supplement the material in the parenting study.
5. Waiting for a Prodigal’s Return
This is another parenting Bible study offered by the folks at Christianity Today, but its topic makes it incredibly compelling for many parents. This is a single-session study for those whose kids have drifted from (or even abandoned) the faith. The key message here is hope.
The Family Project is a parenting curriculum produced by Focus on the Family and is designed primarily for small groups. This 12-session study emphasizes the role of the family in God’s design. For parents, grasping these foundational truths can translate into a better understanding of their role as spiritual mentors for their children.
Nobody’s perfect—and that absolutely applies to parenting. This study, based on a book by Family Life Today personalities Dave and Ann Wilson, reminds parents that life can be messy sometimes, so the ideal of “perfection” is really a lie they need to remove from their thinking and their lives. This resource is primarily online, with downloadable videos and a printable discussion guide for small groups.
Riding the Roller Coaster
If you’ve got kids, you understand that parenting is a roller coaster of emotions and experiences. I’ve often told parents that it’s a marathon rather than a sprint. You will have highs and lows, so celebrate the highs because they provide hope and encouragement during the lows.
Since parenting is a lifelong process, you need to grow and learn as you move through the various seasons of life. Parenting Bible studies, along with lots of prayer and the power of community, can provide the support you need to be the best version of yourself.
You can do this. You just don’t need to try doing it alone.
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