Fatherhood...I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named...Eph 3:14

                Sense of belonging/identity because we share the same blood/adoption [rejection]

                Accepted arrangement of authority and roles [chaos]

Atmosphere that fosters growth and development

                Protection, safety, security, needs met [fear, uncertainty]

                *Appreciation [criticism]

                *Good Communication Patterns...Freedom to share and be vulnerable [hiding & hurling]

Mutuality

               *Commitment (actively promoted one another's happiness and well being) [indifference]

                *Sharing of time, experiences and values [self-centeredness]

                Respect, Responsibility, Accountability, Understanding and Edification [irresponsibility]


Interdependence & Influence

                Learn role & place in society by observing models [disunity]

                Teamwork, Contribution, Value earned/bestowed [isolation]

Love  Self-sacrificially desiring what's in another's best interest.

                *Problem solving (deal with crises in a positive manner) [blaming]

                *Spiritual Commitment [self-worship]

Yardsticks

                Objective: To create & maintain a warm & healthy environment conducive to reproductive growth

                Progress through Lifecycle/Developmental tasks [aimlessness]

                Goals: Family Devotions, Recreation/Vacations, Family council [poor priorities]

{*traits of families which rated themselves very high in marital happiness and satisfaction with parent-child relationships}

Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:

1. What did the family of your youth do that is worthy of emulation? What benefit was gained from the practice?

2. How does a family become dysfunctional? How can it be made to function properly?

3. What words would someone use to characterize your family? Do those words match your aspirations for your family?

4. What kinds of goals would help a family achieve its purposes? What goals to you have for your family?

5. In what ways is a church to be like a family? In what ways is it different?