What Does The Bible Say About Parenting Adults?

Introduction

Parenting is a lifelong journey that doesn't end once a child reaches adulthood. It's important to understand how to parent adult children in a way that is healthy and biblical. The Bible provides guidance on how to approach parenting adult children, and this article will explore what it says on the topic.

What does the Bible say about Parenting Adults?

The Bible doesn't have a specific section on parenting adult children, but it does provide principles that can be applied. Here are some key verses that provide guidance:

Ephesians 6:4

Q: What does Ephesians 6:4 say about parenting adult children?
A: Ephesians 6:4 says, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." This verse is often applied to parenting young children, but it also applies to adult children. Parents should continue to provide guidance and instruction, but they should do so in a way that doesn't exasperate their children.

Proverbs 22:6

Q: What does Proverbs 22:6 say about parenting adult children?
A: Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse emphasizes the importance of laying a foundation of faith and values when children are young. However, it also suggests that the influence of this training can last into adulthood.

Colossians 3:21

Q: What does Colossians 3:21 say about parenting adult children?
A: Colossians 3:21 says, "Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged." This verse emphasizes the importance of treating adult children with respect and kindness. Parents should avoid being critical or controlling and should instead seek to build up and encourage their children.

Additional Article

What are some practical tips for parenting adult children?
Parenting adult children can be challenging, but there are some practical tips that can help. Here are a few: 1. Respect their independence - Adult children need to make their own decisions and mistakes. Parents should avoid being overly controlling and should respect their children's autonomy. 2. Stay connected - Even though adult children may be independent, they still need emotional support and connection with their parents. Regular communication and quality time together can help maintain these connections. 3. Provide guidance when asked - Adult children may seek out their parents' advice on important decisions. When this happens, parents should provide guidance in a non-judgmental way and avoid being pushy.

FAQ

Q: How can I maintain a healthy relationship with my adult children?
A: Maintaining a healthy relationship with adult children requires mutual respect, good communication, and a willingness to listen and understand each other. Q: What should I do if my adult child makes choices I disagree with?
A: It's important to remember that adult children have the right to make their own choices, even if we disagree with them. Parents should provide guidance and support, but ultimately, the decision is up to the adult child. Q: How can I continue to be a positive influence in my adult child's life?
A: Parents can continue to be a positive influence by setting a good example, maintaining open communication, and providing emotional support and encouragement.

Tutorial

If you're looking for a more in-depth tutorial on how to parent adult children, there are many resources available online and in books. Some helpful resources include "Parenting Your Adult Child" by Karen L. Gailor and "The Smart Parent's Guide to Raising Adults" by Mark P. Taylor.

Recent Facts

- According to a study by Pew Research Center, more young adults are living with their parents than in any other living arrangement. - A survey by AARP found that the majority of parents with adult children believe that their relationship with their children has improved over time. - Research has shown that parents who maintain good relationships with their adult children tend to have better mental health and life satisfaction.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages: - Continuing to have a positive influence in your adult child's life - Maintaining close relationships with your children - Providing emotional support and encouragement Disadvantages: - Difficulty letting go of control - Struggling to adapt to changes in the parent-child relationship - Potential conflict when children make choices that parents disagree with

Conclusion

Parenting adult children can be challenging, but it's important to approach it with love, respect, and biblical principles. By maintaining good communication, providing guidance when asked, and respecting their independence, parents can continue to have a positive influence in their adult children's lives. References: 1. "What Does the Bible Say About Parenting Adult Children?" by Mark Altrogge, The Blazing Center, 2020. 2. "Parenting Adult Children: What Does the Bible Say?" by Dave Boehi, FamilyLife, 2019. 3. "Parenting Adult Children" by Karen L. Gailor, Christianity Today, 2018. 4. "The Smart Parent's Guide to Raising Adults" by Mark P. Taylor, Northfield Publishing, 2019. 5. "More Young Adults Are Living with Their Parents Than at Any Other Time in Modern History" by Richard Fry, Pew Research Center, 2020.