The term “discipline” in English comes from a root word which means “instruction and training,” and that’s exactly what it is. Discipline is the process by which parents instruct their children and train them up in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6). In the same way, a “disciple” of Jesus Christ is someone who is being trained in the way of Christ.
Ultimately, that is the responsibility of every parent, to train children up to follow Jesus Christ, the perfect man, because His way is the way that will both honor God and prosper the children as they grow into adulthood. For a young person with a sin nature, boundaries with consequences need to be set in place and enforced so that they can learn in a safe environment how they ought to live in the world. But all of this must be done in love, as fathers and mothers are called to be image-bearers of God the Father, the only truly good parent who loves perfectly; anything else is not true biblical discipline.
What Does Biblical Discipline Look Like?
Discipline is often misunderstood in parenting, conjuring images of punishment or control. However, Scripture presents discipline as a profound expression of love and guidance. Hebrews 12:6 reminds us, “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” Biblical discipline is not about exerting power but about nurturing hearts toward Christ.
1. Discipline as an Act of Love
The foundation of biblical discipline is love. Just as God disciplines us out of love, parents are called to guide their children with the same heart. Ultimately, parenting is not about behavior modification but heart transformation, aligning with the gospel’s message of grace and redemption. Just as sinners can’t make themselves acceptable to God by following the law and must be rescued by grace, so it is that children cannot measure up to God’s standards (or their parents, which should be the same but often are not)—they need God’s grace to help transform them.
2. Shepherding the Heart
Discipline should aim to shepherd a child’s heart, not just correct behavior. Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Addressing the heart leads to lasting change and a deeper understanding of God’s love. This requires listening to children and watching the things that they allow to influence their hearts (media, other people, etc.). It also requires showing genuine care for what children care about so they feel willing to share their hearts.
3. Emotional Safety and Connection
Just like any person who is being challenged or confronted in their sin, children thrive when they feel secure and understood. Discipline should be administered in a context where children know they are loved unconditionally, mirroring God’s steadfast love for us.
4. Reflecting the Father’s Heart
Fathers, in particular, have a unique role in reflecting God’s heart. It is critical that fathers embody both God’s strength and compassion. Discipline from fathers should model God’s balance of justice and mercy, guiding children toward righteousness.
5. Intentional and Purposeful Discipline
Fathers and mothers must always be intentional in their parenting, using discipline as a tool to build character and faith. It should never be reactive because of stress or the inability of a parent to control themselves and exhibit the fruits of the spirit. Discipline should be purposeful, aiming to instill values and guide children toward a relationship with Christ.
6. Scripture-Guided Discipline
The Bible provides clear guidance on discipline:
Proverbs 13:24 – “Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.”
Ephesians 6:4 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
Hebrews 12:11 – “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
These verses underscore that discipline, though challenging, leads to growth and righteousness when done in love and according to God’s instruction.
Conclusion
Biblical discipline is a loving, intentional act that seeks to guide children toward God’s truth. It involves shepherding their hearts, ensuring emotional safety, and reflecting God’s character. By grounding discipline in Scripture and love, parents can nurture their children’s faith and character effectively, giving them their best chance to live healthy lives following Christ and being ready for the world—and His second coming.
(Editor's Note: This article was posted first on Dr. McFarland's website HERE.)
