IS THERE A REBEL IN THE HOUSE? CHAPTER SEVEN

A FEW days before his death, Jesus asked a group of Jewish religious leaders a thought-provoking question.  He said: "What do you think? A man had two children, going up to the first, he said 'Child, go work today in the vineyard.'  In answer this one said, 'I will sir,' but did not go out. Approaching the second, he said the same.  In reply this one said, 'I will not.' Afterwards he felt regret and went out.  Which of the two did the will of his father?" The Jewish leaders replied: "The latter." -Matthew 21:28-31.

Jesus was here highlighting the unfaithfulness of the Jewish leaders.  They were like the first son, promising to do God's will and then not keeping their promise.   But many parents will recognize that Jesus' illustration was based on a good understanding of family life.  As he so well showed, it is often difficult to know what young people are thinking or to predict what they will do.  A young person may cause many problems during his adolescence and then grow up to be a responsible, well-respected adult.  This is something to keep in mind when we discuss the problem of teenage rebellion.

Next time: WHAT IS A REBEL?

From the book: THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS, 1996