Lesson Two, Question 6

6. How important is it for children to hear from their parents what God’s place ought to be in their lives? (Zechariah’s song 1:67-79)

This is an unusual question. I don't know that John necessarily heard what his parents (or more accurately Zechariah) though God's place ought to be in his life. I took it that Zechariah was prophesying and as so, was speaking to John as a Prophet and not as a parent. But, to answer the question, I don't think parents have any right whatsoever to tell their children what God's place ought to be in their lives. One's relationship with God is personal and should NEVER be "legislated". One's parents can witness for their child. They can certainly demand that their chosen religion be respected within their home and in their presence, but they cannot dictate their child's relationship with God. Of course, many try and I think it's a sure-fire recipe to end up with a child with little to no interest in seeking or developing a personal relationship with God.