Because a very big percentage of what the Bible has to say about the parent-to-child relationship is about training and discipline, I want to cover it — but it is with some fear and trepidation! I’ll try to just cover what the Bible says, and, when I interject my own opinion, I’ll tell you! Hebrews 12:5-13 is a good section on discipline — mostly how God disciplines us, but it also says a lot about parent to child, too.

My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons.

So then, as a foundational idea, discipline is good, and a parent who loves his child will discipline him.

Inna da Gr-r-reek: discipline — instruct, train, educate, as an on-going matter, in accord with rules and proper conduct; discipline, punish, for the purpose of better behavior.