MH page 349

The restoration and uplifting of humanity begins in the home. The work of parents underlies every other. Society is composed of families, and is what the heads of families make it. Out of the heart are “the issues of life” ( Proverbs 4:23 ); and the heart of the community, of the church, and of the nation is the household. The well-being of society, the success of the church, the prosperity of the nation, depend upon home influences.

The home is foundational to society, the church, and the nation, and societal well-being depends on home influences. This paragraph establishes an ethical and social principle regarding the importance of the family and home environment on wider society without making a standalone empirical medical claim.

The importance and the opportunities of the home life are illustrated in the life of Jesus. He who came from heaven to be our example and teacher spent thirty years as a member of the household at Nazareth. Concerning these years the Bible record is very brief. No mighty miracles attracted the attention of the multitude. No eager throngs followed His steps or listened to His words. Yet during all these years He was fulfilling His divine mission. He lived as one of us, sharing the home life, submitting to its discipline, performing its duties, bearing its burdens. In the sheltering care of a humble home, participating in the experiences of our common lot, He “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52 .

Jesus spent thirty hidden years in a humble home at Nazareth, fulfilling His mission through ordinary daily duties and family life. This paragraph recounts historical and biographical narrative about the life of Jesus, citing biblical scripture.