Series Details
Conflicts are inevitable in every family. Sometimes busy and preoccupied parents create conflict. At other times, children act selfishly, respond angrily, or flat-out rebel against their parents. When conflicts remain unresolved, there can be a permanent breakdown in relationships that time alone will not heal.
This two-part series by Chuck Swindoll gives down-to-earth advice from the Bible on how to resolve family conflicts. Urging us to combine tough love with tender hearts, these messages offer a realistic road to that reconciliation we long for.
Conflict is an inevitable part of every family. Whether it stems from preoccupied parents or rebellious children, unresolved tension can lead to a permanent breakdown in relationships. In this two-part series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll offers realistic, biblically-based advice on how to bridge the gap. By combining “tough love” with “tender hearts,” these messages provide a roadmap to reconciliation, reminding us that no family is beyond the reach of God’s restorative grace.
1. When the Fun Stops for Parents (1 Samuel 15:22–23; Luke 15:11–24)
- Overview: Addresses the painful reality of parenting children who have moved from infancy to independence and have chosen a path of rebellion. Chuck uses the story of the Prodigal Son to illustrate the balance of discipline and waiting.
- Key Fact: Parenting through rebellion requires a “straight-talk” approach that doesn’t compromise on truth, but maintains an open door for repentance.
- Scripture: Luke 15:20 – “So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him…”
2. Resolving Those Parent/Child Conflicts (Selected Scriptures)
- Overview: Provides down-to-earth advice for the everyday friction between parents and children. Chuck encourages parents to examine their own role in the conflict—such as being overly preoccupied—and offers steps for humble reconciliation.
- Key Fact: Time alone does not heal family wounds; it requires intentional, humble actions from both sides to restore harmony.
- Scripture: Ephesians 6:4 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
