The Grace Filled Home

What did Jonathan Edwards imply when he said “family education and order are some of the chief means of grace?” In regard to family education I believe he is clearly referring to parents attending to the biblical training and spiritual development of their children. The order of the family speaks of each family member faithfully and joyfully fulfilling their role and responsibilities within the home.

But, what about his assertion that these two activities are “some of the chief means of grace?” In order to determine the meaning of this phrase let’s do a quick word study. The word “chief” means “foremost” or “primary.” The word “means” can be translated “channel” or “instrument”. The word “grace” has two different but connected meanings. It can refer to God’s free and unmerited favor whereby He provides salvation to sinful undeserving people. And, it can point to God’s provision of His supernatural power and resources which help us live according to His plans and purposes.

With these definitions in mind, I think we can accurately paraphrase Edwards’ statement like this: “When parents see to the biblical training of their children and order their homes according to God’s plan, this becomes one of the primary channels through which God dispenses his unmerited favor and sustaining resources.”

Notice he said that the activities of family education and order were “some” of the chief means of grace. In other words, these are not the only means God uses. I think it is interesting that many theologians of the past such as John Calvin, John Wesley, and Martin Luther believed that the teaching and preaching of God’s Word was the chief means of grace.

I like the connection that is made between the church and the home with what these godly men have stated. God dispenses His grace to the home through the church by way of the accurate and faithful teaching and preaching of His Word. He dispenses His grace within the home as His Word is implemented and modeled.

At First Baptist Church, we have just concluded Family Ministry Month. Over the past five Sunday mornings Pastor Phil has been giving instruction, guidance, and encouragement from God’s Word concerning family life. The channel of God’s grace to the home coming from the preaching of God’s Word has been open and free flowing to us all. However, God’s grace will only be experienced when His Word is obediently applied and lived out by those who have heard it. My prayer is that every FBC family will abundantly experience God’s grace in their homes.

David