Equipping Parents of East Maryville Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, to Disciple Their Children

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to equip parents of East Maryville Baptist Church (EMBC) to disciple their children. A series of surveys for parents and their children determined that the parents of EMBC struggled to spiritually lead their homes. Research included a survey of the biblical and theological basis for parents to serve as the primary disciple makers of their children. In addition, sociological, historical, and practical support was provided to demonstrate the God given role of parents to intentionally make disciples of their children through active partnership with the local church. The project implementation process was outlined through an analysis of current discipleship practices of families attending EMBC. A four-week sermon series and four-week parent group study were developed to raise awareness and improve areas of family discipleship. A paired samples t-test demonstrated that the sermon series and parent group study at EMBC made a statistically significant difference in parental understanding and practices (t(23)=3.32,p<.003). Further reflection shows that an active partnership between the church and home is necessary in order to make disciples of the next generation.