The Goal of Discipline

Introduction: A touchy subject oftentimes when it comes to parenting is the issue of discipline.

No matter where you fall on the spectrum of discipline, we all employ some form of it in the raising of our children.

If discipline is done properly, it accomplishes several goals:

It demonstrates love Proverbs 13:24:

Proverbs 13:24 KJV 1900

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

It is evidence of Parenthood:

Hebrews 12:7-8

Hebrews 12:7–8 KJV 1900

If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

It punishes improper actions Hebrews 12:9

Hebrews 12:9 KJV 1900

Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

Its intended outcome is a righteous lifestyle Hebrews 12:11

Hebrews 12:11 KJV 1900

Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

In Jonah 1:1-10, we saw the terrible effects of a saint in direct disobedience to God’s call.

Now, let us venture to learn from Jonah’s life how to react to the correcting hand of God.

Admit your quilt. (vs. 12b)

Be Apart of the Solution (vs. 11-12a, 13)

Endure His Correction (vs. 14-17)