Disciplining our Children
Biblical Principles on How to Discipline Them
By David Cox
[f05] v1 ©2006 www.coxtracts.com
This tract can be freely reproduced for non-profit use.
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. Hebrews 12:6
There is the problem, and we will begin with this parallel between parents and their children, and between God and us. Many people reject totally out of hand any form of corporal punishment as a form of child abuse. In the end analysis, if we accept as incorrect that anybody that is punished physical (worse mentally or psychologically) then what of God’s punishment? Many attack God with this by attacking punish as evil. In place of punishment they prefer distraction (time out, candy, games, or rewards) for evil behavior. But God as our Creator punishes us because of His profound love. Diversion is no substitute.
The Correct Motive: “we discipline you because we love you”
When we speak of discipline and punishment, we should always start at Hebrew 12:5-11, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth… that we might be partakers of his holiness.” (12:6, 10). The principle is “we discipline you because we love you”, and we ought to remind our children constantly of this principle, and especially when we have to discipline them. If it wasn’t for the Lord’s discipline, none of us would walk in His holiness . Discipline has the function of motivating the immature person to change.
