Training Parents of Washington Heights Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio, to be the Primary Disciplers of Their Families

Abstract

This project’s purpose was to equip the parents of Washington Heights Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio, to be the primary disciplers of their children. Chapter 1 presents the history and ministry context of Washington Heights and the goals of this project. Chapter 2 provides exegesis of four passages of Scripture (Deut 6; Josh 24; Ps 78; and Eph 6) to show that God has ordained and intended the family to be the primary means of discipleship in the life of a child, while mandating the people of God to come alongside in support. Chapter 3 observes contemporary work in the area of family ministry to show that for family discipleship to be successful, families and churches must adjust the way they interact with and support one another. Churches must come alongside parents instead of taking their responsibility; parents must show their children that devotion to God encompasses every area of life; and regular worship must happen both at home as well as in the congregational setting. Chapter 4 describes the project itself, recounting the content and teaching methodology of the specific course curriculum. Chapter 5 evaluates the efficiency of the project based on completion of the specific goals. Ultimately, this project seeks to equip parents with the resources and confidence to disciple their families in the ways and life of Jesus Christ.