I enjoy the privilege of regularly teaching children God’s word. Often, however, I find myself wondering if it is worth it. What is going on behind their absent stares? Are they listening as their eyes dart from dis-traction to distraction?
The worth of teaching the coming generations is a theme that strikingly permeates the book of Deuteronomy. Repeatedly Moses encourages the older generations to teach the younger. This was not simply to entertain children or offer additional options for corporate worship. Rather, it is because it is worth it.
Experiences
To begin, Moses encourages the Israelites to share their experiences of God with the coming generations. He warns them to be careful ‘lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children’ (Deut. 4:9). Moses reiterates the point immediately (Deut. 4:10).
