At the time of this writing, I am currently leading our church through a study of millennials. More specifically, we are exploring the importance of reaching millennials with the Gospel and how we can effectively meet that challenge as a local church. Millennials are those born between 1981 and 1996, and they presently make up the largest living generation in this county. It’s imperative for the church to reach this passionate and often terribly misunderstood generation. In a very real sense, they are the present and the future of the church. A failure to reach millennials will threaten the church’s ability to reach future generations. The long-term survival of any local church hinges on how effectively they can reach this generation.
Every generation has faced a similar challenge. As Solomon once noted, “A generation goes, and a generation comes, but the earth remains forever” (Ecclesiastes 1:4 ESV). Time keeps marching on with rapid speed. As one generation ages and passes from this earth, another generation quickly rises up to take their place. Therefore, it becomes imperative for each generation to impact future generations after them by passing on a legacy of faith, values, and godly behavior. We have to perpetuate ourselves from one generation to the next. Otherwise, we will make the same mistake found in the Old Testament book of Judges. After Joshua and the elders of Israel died, the next generation arose without a knowledge of God, leading to idolatry and rebellion among the people (see Judges 2:10-12). Terrible things happen when one generation fails to teach and reach the next generation.
As we consider reaching the next generation, though, we cannot overlook an important component in this process. Fathers play a crucial and deeply influential role in the spiritual development of their children and the future of the church. Simply put, dads are essential to reach the next generation! Their presence, leadership, and example shapes the lives of their children and grandchildren, passing on a legacy of faith that will live on long after them. Both Scripture and statistics highlight the important role of fatherhood. Countless studies show that when a father is active in the faith, the likelihood of children continuing in the faith increases significantly.
For instance…
When both father and mother attend church regularly, about 33% of children will attend regularly as adults. When only the mother attends, only 2-15% of children will attend regularly as adults. However, when only the father attends regularly, the number jumps to 44% or more of children attending regularly as adults. (Source: Swiss study by Werner Haug and Phillipe Warner, reported by Touchstone Magazine)
In another study, it was found that children are more likely to adopt the religious practices and beliefs of their fathers than of their mothers, especially in households where parents differ in their level of faith. Plus, when fathers are highly committed to their faith, the children are more than twice as likely to remain active in their faith as adults. (Source: Pew Research)
Another study found that when fathers read Scripture at home, pray, and discuss spiritual matters with their children, 82% of those children were likely to remain committed to their faith into adulthood. (Source: LifeWay Research)
These statistics point to a clear truth: fathers have a unique and powerful influence over the spiritual direction of their children. Their presence, teaching, priorities, and spiritual disciplines will absolutely shape the faith journey of their children. No wonder the Scriptures often remind fathers to take such a leading role in the spiritual development of their children. As the apostle Paul said, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord“ (Ephesians 6:4 ESV).
What can dads do to reach the next generation?
Children need several key things from their fathers—physically, relationally, emotionally, and spiritually. Here’s a list of some the most critical needs dads must fulfill to reach the hearts of their children for God:
Love and affection. Dads, give your children unconditional love, regular hugs, words of affirmation, and quality time to make them feel safe, cherished, and valuable. Above all, show them the love of God by modeling love and forgiveness.
Presence and time. Dads, children need your presence more than they need your presents. More than the paycheck you can provide, the insurance you offer, and the food you put on the table, they need you! Be there for suppertime, ballgames, talks on the front porch, and the small everyday moments.
Affirmation and encouragement. Dads, your words are daily shaping your child’s self-image and confidence. Sons and daughters alike need to hear their father say, “I am so proud of you,” “You did such a good job,” and “I love you!”
Discipline and guidance. Dads, your children need your loving leadership. Your children cannot be left to their own devices, and they can’t be left to just play on their devices. They are counting on you to give them clear boundaries, balanced teaching, and loving correction.
Protection and security. Dads, your children look to you for safety. This world is filled with danger than can threaten the wellbeing of your children—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. Be present and aware of the potential dangers in your child’s life, and take the initiative to protect them from any and all harm.
Respect and integrity. Dads, your children are watching you, and they are going to model how you treat women. Little boys learn how to treat women by watching their dad interact with their mom. Little girls learn how they should be treated by men by watching how their daddy treats their mom.
Fun and joy. Dads, your children want to laugh and play with you. Put down your smartphone, cut off the televisions, put down the hobbies, and spend time with your children. Laugh with them, play with them, and have fun with them. You will build lifelong memories your children will cherish forever.
Instruction and example. Dads, your children need to learn how to walk with God from you. They are counting on you to tell them the way and show them the way by your words and actions. Your walk with God and instruction in the home will say more than a thousand sermons.
In closing, let me end with a powerful challenge: dads, don’t fail your children! Of course, every dad will fall short at times. There’s no such thing as a perfect father! Yet even imperfect dads who are present, loving, and intentional about the spiritual development of their children can make a huge different. The next generation is counting on you! The next generation needs you more than you probably realize. There is no magic program, ideal youth minister, or silver bullet work of the church that can replace the priceless role of dads in the home. You set the spiritual tone for your family that’s likely to continue resonating for generations after you. Dads, never underestimate the power of your influence! Your love, faith, and example will echo in the hearts of your children for a lifetime.