As homeschooling parents, we employ different teaching methods, establish different goals, and use different curricula to educate our children in the three R’s. But homeschooling is actually more than schooling that happens in our homes; our teaching extends beyond the academics.
The heart of homeschooling involves the discipleship of our children. Salvation is of the Lord, but as parents we have the responsibility to point our children to our Savior Jesus Christ as we train them in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. It is a tremendous task indeed, but what God Almighty has called us to do, He also provides the means.
Discipleship involves formal instruction in the Word of God. We must intentionally teach our children the Word, precept upon precept. They need to learn who God is and what He requires of them. They must memorize Scripture and hide it in their hearts. They need to be trained to obey God’s commands and wisely apply biblical principles. Following Christ is a life-long occupation.
But a large part of discipleship also happens as our children observe our daily lives. What do they see when we respond to the big and little challenges in life? What do they hear coming out of our mouths? What do we communicate in the priorities we set for the use of our time, our material goods, our money? Children will often imitate the speech and behavior of their parents. We are not perfect, but insofar as we imitate Christ, we want our children to imitate us. (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Teaching and training our children is a sacred duty and if we approach the day with the attitude that everything we teach and live out in our lives is for the glory of God, the focus will not be on academic prowess but on godliness. As we trust in the mercy and grace of the Lord, let us be faithful to build our children’s lives on the firm foundation of God and His Word. Let us not become absorbed in the three R’s but rather focus on the Big D – Discipleship.
