The Revival of Family Worship: A Call to Action for Christian Families
In a world where the hustle and bustle of life often overshadows the sacred moments of togetherness, the concept of family worship is making a much-needed comeback among Christians. As the pressures of modern life increase, many families find themselves drifting away from the spiritual practices that once anchored them. However, a growing movement is encouraging families to reclaim this vital aspect of their faith.
Family worship, as defined by Donald S. Whitney in his book Family Worship, emphasizes the importance of engaging with God as a unit, not just as individuals. Whitney references Deuteronomy 6:7, which instructs parents to impress God’s commandments on their children: “Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” This scriptural mandate serves as a reminder that spiritual discussions should permeate everyday life, not just be confined to church services.
Recent conversations among Christian leaders reveal a startling truth: many families are relying solely on church programs for their children’s spiritual growth. Peter Tan-Chi, pastor of Christ’s Commission Fellowship in the Philippines, points out that this reliance overlooks the essential role of parents in discipleship. He emphasizes that “every family is a discipleship group,” where parents can model their faith through prayer and open discussions.
In Asia, where church activities often take precedence over family time, there is a growing awareness of the necessity for families to worship together. The Asia Evangelical Alliance (AEA) is leading the charge with its 2024 General Assembly theme, “Disciple or Die,” underscoring the urgent need for families to take an active role in spiritual education. This sentiment echoes the struggles many families face, as they juggle work, church commitments, and daily life.
Consider the inspiring story of Margaret Emis from Penang, Malaysia. For 15 years, she has led her family in daily worship, starting each morning with Bible reading, singing, and prayer. This practice began after she read John MacArthur’s What the Bible Says about Parenting, which ignited a passion in her to actively disciple her children. Margaret’s commitment to family worship demonstrates that with intentionality, even the busiest families can prioritize spiritual growth.
Leon Lim, a pastor in Kuala Lumpur, shares a similar commitment. His family gathers every night for 15 minutes of worship, which includes singing, reading Scripture, and prayer. They have maintained this routine since 2019, demonstrating that consistency is key to fostering a love for God in children. Leon reflects on how this practice has become a cherished time for his family, providing refuge amidst the chaos of life.
As families begin to embrace the practice of worshiping together, they often find that it strengthens their bonds and deepens their faith. In my own experience, establishing a family worship routine was initially challenging. With young children, bedtime often felt like a race against the clock. However, even the simplest moments—reading a Bible story or singing a hymn—became precious opportunities for connection and growth.
Whitney’s advice on setting a regular time for family worship resonates deeply. For many families, this means gathering at bedtime, a time when everyone is already together. Reflecting on the day and recognizing God’s presence can be a powerful way to end each evening.
The revival of family worship is not just a trend; it’s a vital movement that calls for action. As families begin to prioritize spiritual practices at home, they are not only nurturing their children’s faith but also enriching their own. The challenge lies in making this commitment a reality amidst the distractions of modern life.
For families looking to start their own worship routines, resources abound. Websites like Focus on the Family offer practical tips and guides for establishing family worship times. Additionally, books like Family Worship by Donald S. Whitney provide valuable insights into creating a meaningful worship experience at home.
In conclusion, the call to family worship is a clarion call for Christians everywhere. As we strive to raise the next generation of believers, let us not forget the importance of worshiping together at home. It’s time to bring faith back to the family table, ensuring that our homes are not just places of shelter but also sanctuaries of spiritual growth. With intention and commitment, we can create a legacy of faith that will endure for generations to come.