Although the primary responsibility of raising up children in the ways of the Lord lies within the role of parents, the church also has a responsibility to come alongside to give support to parents and sometimes even to fill the gap left by unconcerned parents. This message elaborates on three definitive statements, set forth by Willow Creek leadership, that speak to the strategy for spiritual development with children and youth: 1) Parents have the highest influence with their children. 2) Parents must own the spiritual development of their families. 3) Beautiful things happen when the church and the family come together.