JUNE 26, Luke 10:38-42

During the New Testament times, Jewish children’s religious education began at home. Fathers were responsible for teaching their sons, at an early age. For the Jews who were better off, some sent their sons to synagogues for formal religious education. A religious teacher was paid by the synagogue to teach the children. At the synagogue, the boys sat in a semi-circle on the floor around the teacher who sat on a chair. Thus, the phrase ‘to sit at the feet’ came about. The boys were taught to repeat and memorise verses from Old Testament Scriptures.

For Jewish girls, their mothers taught them how to do housework, preparing them to become good wives and mothers in the future. Unlike Jewish boys, Jewish girls had less opportunity to learn the Scriptures. When guests were invited to a home for a meal, the girls were expected to tidy the place, cook and serve. Today, we learn about two sisters, Mary and Martha. During Jesus’ visit, both of them were expected to be busy doing what women ought to do. However, Mary chose to spend her time sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to His teaching. Jesus did not rebuke her. Instead, He defended Mary when Martha complained against her. The Lord Jesus said that Mary had chosen the good part. He told Martha that she should also not be so bogged down by her chores but spend time listening to God’s Word.

Today, children both boys and girls can learn the Word of God taught by their parents at home. In addition, they are also able learn from Bible lessons taught to them by their Sunday school teachers every Sunday. God wants parents to teach their children the Word of God at home.

1. How should the parents teach the Word of God?
    Read Deuteronomy 6:7,
    “And thou shall teach them __________ unto thy children”.

2. Why do we memorise Scripture? Read Psalm 119:11,
    “Thy word have I __________ in mine heart,
    that I might not sin against thee.”

Thought: Am I diligent in the study of God’s Word?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for godly parents and teachers who teach me Thy Word diligently. May I be serious about learning and living out the lessons contained in Your precious Word. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.