Children
BUILDING A WHOLE LIFE FROM THE BEGINNING
JESUS MADE A PROFOUND STATEMENT ABOUT CHILDREN WHEN HE TOLD HIS DISCIPLES, “LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME TO ME, AND DO NOT STOP THEM; FOR IT IS TO SUCH AS THESE THAT THE KINGDOM OF GOD BELONGS” (LUKE 18:16, NRSV). WHILE THE DISCIPLES FEARED THAT THE CHILDREN MIGHT BOTHER JESUS, THE SAVIOR EMBRACED THEM AND AFFIRMED THEIR VALUE.
Wise King Solomon said, “Children are a gift of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3, NASB). Seventh-day Adventists agree, creating a culture that encourages child development with youth clubs, summer camps and other outdoor events, international youth gatherings, weekly Sabbath school programs, mission trips, Vacation Bible Schools and a quality educational system from elementary to university level.
Solomon also offered this parenting advice: “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it” (Proverbs 22:6, NLT). The church supports parents through programs and publications, emphasizing the importance of early childhood training. The Seventh-day Adventist approach to child-rearing focuses on spiritual growth. But it also emphasizes healthy lifestyle choices and intellectual learning that leads to useful service in the community and in the world.
Children are a gift to be returned to God. As Ellen White, a co-founder of the church, said: “Fathers and mothers should look upon their children as younger members of the Lord’s family, committed to them to educate for heaven.” (“The Desire of Ages,” p. 515)