Verse of the Day: Ephesians 6:4
Verse of the Day
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Ephesians 6:4
And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Introduction
This single verse from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians speaks volumes about the spiritual responsibility placed upon parents—especially fathers—in raising children within a Christ-centered framework. Found in a section of Ephesians (chapters 5–6) often called the “household codes,” this verse provides guidance for Christian families seeking to reflect the love and order of God. Rather than asserting harsh authority, Paul calls fathers to a nurturing discipline grounded in love and instruction in the Lord. It’s a challenge to exercise godly leadership through gentleness, not domination.
Commentary
“And, fathers…”: Paul addresses fathers directly, though by extension, this guidance applies to all caregivers and authority figures in a child's life. The focus on fathers recognizes their cultural role as heads of households in the ancient world.
“…do not provoke your children to anger…”: The Greek word parorgizete means to exasperate or embitter. Paul warns against parenting that wounds a child’s spirit—harshness, unpredictability, neglect, or over-discipline can lead to resentment and rebellion.
“…but bring them up…”: This phrase emphasizes a positive and active responsibility. The verb implies nourishment, tender care, and intentional growth, much like tending to a garden.
“…in the discipline…”: The Greek *paideia* encompasses training, correction, and guidance. It’s not mere punishment but a process of shaping character through consistent moral teaching.
“…and instruction of the Lord.”: This refers to teaching that is rooted in Christ—Scripture-based guidance that shapes both mind and heart. It also implies modeling godly behavior, not just delivering religious rules.
Understanding the Context
In the Greco-Roman world, fathers held absolute authority over their households—sometimes to the point of cruelty. Roman law gave them power even over life and death. In that context, Paul’s instructions were countercultural. Rather than endorsing domination, Paul introduced a radically different model of family leadership: one shaped by the love and humility of Christ. The instruction to not provoke children was a revolutionary limitation on paternal authority. Paul's Christian household ethic elevated the value and dignity of each family member, echoing Christ’s servant-leadership.
Application for Today
In our modern world, parenting styles vary widely—from authoritarian to permissive. This verse calls believers to a balanced, spiritually-grounded approach. Parents and mentors are reminded to lead with emotional intelligence—understanding their child’s heart, not just controlling behavior. Avoiding exasperation may involve listening well, setting fair expectations, apologizing when wrong, and affirming a child’s worth in Christ. Spiritual nurturing means more than taking kids to church; it means living out faith at home through prayer, Scripture, compassion, and example. Boundaries are necessary, but so is grace.
Practical guidance includes:
Regular family prayer and Bible reading
Affirming words alongside correction
Explaining the why behind rules
Encouraging questions and spiritual exploration
Modeling repentance and forgiveness
Reflection
Parenting, mentoring, or influencing the next generation is a sacred trust. Paul’s counsel in Ephesians 6:4 invites us to examine whether our approach reflects the character of Christ—both firm and gentle, truthful and loving. Are we raising children to fear us or to trust God? Are we nurturing faith, or merely enforcing behavior?
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
