What is the context?
Children are called an inheritance and reward from the Lord. The arrows image describes the support and strength of children born in one’s youth.
The final picture concerns standing before enemies at the gate without shame. The household is viewed through solidarity as well as joy.
The song values children as gift. It does not state that childless people are rejected or set one required family size for every person.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley reads the gate through the ability to plead a cause in court with family support. That interpretation should not turn children into property or a mandate for parents to seek conflict.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.
Where can I study this further?
No deeper study linked yet.