The law builds on the model of fatherhood set by Abraham (Genesis 18:19). In each generation, fathers lead in pointing their children to the true Father.
He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God… (Psalm 78:5-7).
These words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).
Note that God addresses fathers specifically. Many passages show the primary responsibility of fathers (Exodus 15:2; Judges 6:13; Psalm 44:1; 78:3; Isaiah 38:19; 1 Timothy 3:12; Hebrews 12:7, 9). Where both parents feature, the father is listed first (Proverbs 4:3-4; 10:1; 23:22, 25; 30:11, 17). Obviously, the marriage arrangement makes the raising of children a team effort—a major purpose of faithful marriage.
Did He not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union? And what was the one God seeking? Godly offspring. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth (Malachi 2:15).
Obviously, mothers play a pivotal role—biologically, socially and spiritually—for God’s goal of “godly offspring.” When the father fails socially and spiritually, the load falls heavily on the mother (Acts 16:1; 2 Timothy 1:5 cf. Proverbs 31:1). Grandparents also have a role (Deuteronomy 4:9; Psalm 10:17; Proverbs 13:22; Isaiah 59:21). But Proverbs 1:8 reflects the pattern intended by God.
Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching (Proverbs 1:8 cf. Proverbs 6:20; 23:22, 25; Deuteronomy 21:18).
The Old Testament severely punishes deliberate disrespect for parents (Exodus 21:15, 17; Deuteronomy 21:18-21; Proverbs 30:17). Children are instructed to cooperate in their godly training—to honor, respect and obey both of their parents.
Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you (Exodus 20:12 cf. Leviticus 19:3; Matthew 15:4). Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right (Ephesians 6:1).