Should Grandparents be Discipling Your Kids?

What role should grandparents play in shaping your child’s faith? And what do you do when their beliefs—or involvement—don’t align with yours? In this episode. Dr. E responds to a parent navigating complicated family dynamics, spiritual differences, and the pressure to ensure grandparents become spiritual influences in their grandchildren’s lives. Dr. Easley offers wisdom, realism, and biblical perspective—reminding parents that their primary calling is to disciple their own children, not fix extended family relationships. The conversation explores honoring parents without forcing spiritual outcomes, setting healthy boundaries, and understanding teens as “free agents” who must ultimately own their faith. Dr. Easley also highlights the often-overlooked influence of youth leaders, mentors, and trusted adults God places in a teenager’s life when family relationships are limited or strained.If you’re parenting preteens or teenagers, navigating blended beliefs, or feeling overwhelmed by family expectations, this episode will bring clarity, peace, and encouragement. Chapters 00:00 – The Question 01:00 – Who Is This Episode Really For? 03:15 – Honor Without Unrealistic Expectations 04:30 – Is It the Parent’s Job to Facilitate Grandparent Relationships? 05:55 – When Protection Comes First 06:45 – Focus on Your Teen, Not the Grandparents 07:55 – Teens Are Free Agents 09:05 – The Role of Youth Leaders and Mentors 10:30 – Investing in Those Who Influence Your Teen 11:50 – Final Encouragement to Parents Key Topics Covered -Grandparents and spiritual influence -Parenting teens with mixed-belief families -Healthy boundaries with extended family -Honoring parents biblically -Discipling preteens and teenagers -Teens as spiritual free agents -Youth pastors and mentors as faith influencers -Letting go of control in parenting -Faith formation beyond the nuclear family Links Mentioned: Larry Fowler: Legacy Coalition on inContext 🎧 Listen to full episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at michaelincontext.com If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].