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I am convinced that one key thing for pastors to do is to encourage fathers to take up their proper role of shepherding their families, discipling their children, etc. This is so foreign in our typical context but is clear in the Scripture as well as in the history of the church. Reclaiming this role of fathers is essential for achieving health in the church. This is a big subject, but my point here is simply to introduce a book that will be helpful in encouraging fathers in this direction. This is not a book that directly speaks to fathers on this issue. Rather it is a book that fathers can read to their children, particularly sons.
I am referring to the Crown and Covenant Series published by P&R. I have posted a review of the first volume in this trilogy over at my blog on children’s books. I will not repeat the review here, but simply suggest that these would be great books for pastors to urge the fathers in their churches to read to their sons. Sons will enjoy it and fathers, if they even barely pay attention, will be encouraged and convicted by the father in the book. The father in the stories, Sandy M’Kethe, takes seriously his role in discipling his children, leading his family, teaching them in word and example, etc. If you can encourage your fathers to read these books to their sons, you will accomplish much. Simply reading to their children is one good thing. Secondly, as they enjoy time together they will see a good example. Third, as the story wrestles with significant theological issues you may get them thinking on such topics as well.
Lastly, the books are best suited for children no younger than six. They are actually aimed children even a bit older than that. The review can guide you further.
4 comments:
This is one of the best children's books trilogies that I have ever read. I highly recommend it. The theology is reformed; the characters are moral; the plot is historical; the adventure is thrilling; the story is God-glorifying. Well worth the money.
Thanks for letting folks know about this series, Dr. Van Neste.
I don't remember my reaction to the first book exactly (Duncan's War), but I recall having a tear or two in my eyes reading the second one and third. Very good, powerful series.
Blessings in Christ,
Albert (Shep) Shepherd
The Aspiring Theologian
Ray stated, "one key thing for pastors to do is to encourage fathers to take up their proper role of shepherding their families". Could this include something happening within the 4 walls of a Church? It sure would be nice to see Pastors embracing men's ministry at their Churches. This would be an excellent opportunity to guide & hold accountable on a weekly basis. Books are fine...but why aren't churches embracing men's ministry (ie., CCC)?
Before my daughters were born I read "She Calls Me Daddy" by Robert Wolgemuth. It's one of the most practical books I've read in years. Unlike most of the gender specific child-rearing books, it gives very good advice for fathers of daughters. I've found that most of the books on raising boys, while useful, could be applied to females as well. I read Raising a Modern Day Knight by Robert Lewis, but the author just seems to carry the metaphor a bit too far if you ask me.
Dear anonymous,
Sure official events can take place within the 4 walls of a church. At CCC we have at tiems taken our Wed night cllass time to offer a men's gathering and one for the ladies. However, we do not always do this. The answer is not in specific meeting sin the church. The key is developing a church culture which affirms the importance of the family/father's role and hten this will come out in various ways.
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