Introduction: A Father’s Heart for Discipleship
Hey everyone! As a dad of seven incredible kids, I’m always on the lookout for ways to weave discipleship into the fabric of our family life. It’s a joy but also a huge responsibility to guide these little hearts along the path of faith. That's why I was thrilled to dive into "The New Discipleship in Home" by Dr. Matt Friedeman. He's not only a pastor with over three decades of experience but also a dad of six, which tells me he knows a thing or two about raising a big family in faith!
I first became acquainted with the book when I read it for a seminary class. I was impressed and asked my wife to re-read it with me. We began to work toward implementing the steps in our family.
The Heart of the Home as a Ground for Faith
Dr. Friedeman starts with a powerful premise: the home is where faith takes root and grows. This book isn’t just a manual; it’s a treasure trove of real, lived experiences and strategies that resonate deeply with any parent trying to navigate the high seas of family life with a Christ-centered compass. What I love most is how Dr. Friedeman frames the home not just as a safe haven from the secular world but as the first church your kids will ever know.
Practical Wisdom Packed with Spiritual Insights
Each chapter in this book is like sitting down to a coffee chat with a wise mentor. Dr. Friedeman breaks down big spiritual goals into everyday practices that make living out your faith doable and straightforward. From family devotions to handling the chaos of social media, he covers the bases with a balanced approach, always pointing back to Scripture.
The Real Deal: Living It Out
One of the core messages of the book is authenticity—being real about our faith in front of our kids. This hits home for me as I aim to be an example of Christ's love and discipline to my kids, not just in what I say, but more importantly--in what I do. Friedeman encourages us to be intentional and consistent, reminding us that our kids are watching and learning from us every day.
Tools for the Journey
The appendices are gold—filled with practical tools and resources to help you set up your home as a discipleship hub. These aren’t just theoretical ideas; they’re battle-tested in the day-to-day life of a real family. They give you a roadmap to follow, which is incredibly helpful whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to strengthen your family’s faith journey.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Book
"The New Discipleship in Home" is more than just a book; it’s a movement back to the basics of imparting faith where it starts—at home. As I read, I felt both challenged and encouraged to up my game as a dad and a disciple-maker. Dr. Friedeman writes not just as a pastor but as a fellow parent in the trenches, full of real compassion and wisdom for the journey.
If you want to download a free copy of the audiobook which I produced with Dr. Friedeman's permission, drop your name and email here:
If you’re like me, wanting to make your home the heart of discipleship, this book is a must-read. It's packed with actionable advice that can help you shape a home environment where faith flourishes. Here’s to growing in faith as families and raising kids who love Jesus deeply!