You shall not bow down to them or worship them [idols]; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Deuteronomy 5:9-10)
This verse points out the tremendous effect that a father has on his children, grandchildren, and following generations. Even though it is clear that all people are free to break away from idolatry into life, many who are educated into the secular culture do not do so, or believe they cannot do so.
Joshua made the right decision when he said, But as for me and my household we will serve the LORD. (Joshua 24:15) And Paul reminds us, Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the LORD. (Ephesians 6:4)
For many “enlightened” parents of today the way to bring up children is to let them find out for themselves what is true and right. This attitude has the effect of rejecting the truth of the above Scripture and God speaks strongly against this philosophy throughout the Holy Bible.
