How do I teach my family?
Question:
Good day, Minister,
I have been subscribed to La Vista Church of Christ emails for a while now, and I've really benefitted from it. But now I have a problem of my own.
I'm the youngest child of several siblings, and my siblings are all boys. I turned 18 recently, but I became a Christian when I was about to turn 17. (My friend taught me.)
I grew up in a denominational household that believes in speaking in tongues, miracles, and the whole package. My mother is a highly respected person among some denominations. Surprisingly, it wasn't too hard for me to believe the truth once it was thrown at my face because I had doubts growing up, and my friend showed me proof from the Bible that I couldn't argue with.
Occasionally, I've tried to talk to my brothers about some topics, but they shut me off and use denominational quotes to defend themselves.
I'm really scared about the fate of my family if I don't teach them because I believe it's my duty to God now that I'm a Christian and also my duty to them as a family member. I don't know where to begin, how to begin, or what to do. I have topics that I've studied, but I don't know how to present them.
I need some advice.
Answer:
Teaching your own family is difficult, especially when you are one of the youngest in the family. The rest were used to teaching you as you grew up, and they will not like the role reversal. This is not to say it is impossible. It is just difficult.
The one thing that should never be discounted is your example. It will speak louder than anything you say. This is why Peter urged wives, who needed to show proper submission, to set an example for their husbands. "In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior" (I Peter 3:1-2).
In order for your example to make an impact, you have to be consistent in your actions. You have to keep presenting the same message.
Watch for opportunities to make a point. It doesn't have to be a major lecture. Plant a seed for them to think about. Perhaps it will germinate later. When they assert something, ask them where they found it in the Bible. When they ask you a question about what you do, strive to answer with a verse. Keep the comments to a minimum. In this way, if they have an argument, they will be arguing with what God said and not with you.
Response:
Thank you very much, Sir. I appreciate your advice.
I hope to be well-rooted in the scriptures like you one day.
God bless you, Sir.
