WEDNESDAY June 14, 2017
Hearing with Understanding
So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could hear with understanding on the first day of the seventh month. - >Nehemiah 8:2
The Children of Israel had assembled. Ezra began to read and teach all those who were able to understand. This Scripture is used to teach parents why we do not have babies or young children among those sitting in the sanctuary. Only adults who understand the teaching of the Word of God should be in the sanctuary. Why? First, this is the only time when the parents can be fed the Word of God without distraction. As they come to listen, God will speak to them individually. Second, parents will not be concerned about the needs of their children while in service. Third, children can be disruptive to other people who have come to listen to God’s Word.
Our Sunday school teachers diligently study to teach Bible lessons to the children at their level of understanding. However, it is important for the parents to take the responsibility to read God’s Word to their children at home every day. Parents should teach their children to memorize the Scriptures. Children are greatly influenced in the home, as they may only spend about six hours a week in church. Biblically, it is not a church’s responsibility to train up children in the ways of the Lord––it is the parent’s duty (Proverbs 22:6).
Among the orthodox Jews, believe it or not, they teach their children to memorize the Law of God––Genesis through Deuteronomy. When we see them doing their prayers by the wall in Jerusalem, they are often repeating the words from the Torah.
And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
~Deuteronomy 6:6-7~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
