The article, “How to Raise a Pagan Kid in a Christian Home,” offers a helpful perspective about the purpose of parenting. It is not to raise good moral citizens, but to raise disciples of Jesus whose lives have been transformed by his grace.

Too many times, (Christian) parents have it as their goal to make their kids good and moral. It is as if the entire purpose of their family’s spiritual life is to shape their children into law-abiding citizens who stay out of trouble. The only problem with this goal is that it runs in stark contrast to what the Bible teaches. The gospel is not about making bad people moral, but about making dead people alive. If we teach morality without the transforming power of the gospel and the necessity of a life fully surrendered to God’s will, we are raising moral pagans.

According to the author, the “American dream plus Jesus” does nothing more than merely produce “good, moral pagans.” This article forces Christian parents who are serious about discipling their children to honestly evaluate what their objectives truly are. It is challenging, but fresh and insightful. Check it out.