Sin In The Home: Undisciplined Children

Ever see the child in the grocery store that won’t shut up in spite of mom telling little Johnny his behavior disappoints her? Ever want to walk over and say, “Do you want me to take care of this?” Me too.

Millions of children are being raised as selfish tyrants. They get what they want, do what they want, and will brook no opposition. The amazing thing is that many parents think this is good. Some even seemingly are not embarrassed by a temper-tantrum in the middle of the mall.

What’s wrong with this picture? God is not in it.

Parents who truly love their children and respect God will discipline. God disciplines us out of love. “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives” (Heb. 12:6; cf. Prov. 3:11, 12). When a child goes without correction, it is as though he is illegitimate: without a father to raise him properly. So, a father may be present in the home but the child still lives as though he is illegitimate because of a lack of discipline.

Let us not be shy about the issue of how to discipline. The Bible repeatedly states that spanking is an acceptable form of correction.

“He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly” (Prov. 13:24).

“Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction” (Prov. 19:18).

Love compels us to put the belt to the backside. We are not to be anxious that this punishment will destroy the child. Properly applied, it will not do permanent damage nor will it scar his spirit. Rather, it lets the child know the limits and instills a respect for authority.

Too many parents are committing the sin of not disciplining their children. Not only will this bring heartache and sorrow in this world, but it will also lead to eternal destruction in the next. We will lose our soul for not raising our children right as quickly as for not believing and obeying the gospel.

To all parents: teach your children the Bible (Deut. 6:6-9; Eph. 6:4); lay down the house rules, tell them your expectations, hold them to it (Eph. 6:1-4); correct early and often, rebuke and spank and they will respect you (Heb. 12:9). This is simple, but effective—because it is God’s way.