Children of God Who Are Responsible

“God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’”

I. Introduction: A Child Who Is Trusted

Ice Breaker:
Children, have you ever been trusted to take care of your toys or help your parents?

Rhetorical Question:
What if God Himself trusts you with something important?

From the very beginning, God created humans not only to live, but to live as His children with responsibility.

Textual Background

Genesis 1 describes creation. Verse 28 comes after humans are made in the image of God. God’s blessing is not passive—it is a calling to action.

The Hebrew word for “blessed” is barak, meaning God empowers His children to live out His purpose responsibly.

II. Children of God Are Called to Grow (v.28a)

“Be fruitful and increase in number…”

The Hebrew word rabah means to grow continuously and intentionally.

• Grow in faith
• Grow in character
• Grow in obedience

Parallel Verse:
Proverbs 22:6 – Children are meant to grow in God’s ways.

Transition:
Growing is important, but God also calls His children to manage what He gives.

III. Children of God Are Trusted to Manage (v.28b)

“Subdue it and rule over…”

The Hebrew word radah means to lead with care, not to destroy.

• Taking care of God’s creation
• Using talents wisely
• Protecting, not harming

Parallel Verse:
Psalm 8:6 – Humans are stewards of God’s works.

Illustration:
A child receives a new bicycle. When cared for, it lasts. When ignored, it breaks. Responsibility works the same way.

Transition:
Managing well leads to a life of obedience.

IV. Children of God Live in Obedience

Responsibility is not a burden—it is proof that we belong to God.

Parallel Verse:
Luke 16:10 – Faithful in small things.

V. Age-Based Application

I. Toddlers (1–5 Years)

• Application: Learning to tidy up toys.
• Activity: Cleaning up together with parents while singing.

II. Children (6–10 Years)

• Application: Responsibility for school and Bible reading.
• Activity: “Creation Keeper” drawing game.

III. Pre-Teens & Teens (11–15 Years)

• Application: Managing time, gadgets, and relationships.
• Activity: Group discussion and small environmental project.

VI. Closing: Call and Poetic Ending

Today God says:
“I trust you, My child.”

Congregational Response:
“Lord, I want to be Your responsible child!”

Poetic Closing:
Flowers bloom beneath the sky so wide,
God’s love and trust walk by our side.
We are His children, called to stand,
Responsible stewards in His hand.