The Bible in a Changing World - Herbert W Armstrong - February 1976

Herbert W Armstrong

SPARE THE ROD?: The U.S. Supreme Court recently approved of use of corporal punishment in public schools, but only as a last resort after teachers have exhausted other milder forms of punishment. Psychologists and other experts disagree as to whether there is ever a need or justification for giving several mild swats in a particularly difficult situation where a child seemingly will not respond to other forms of discipline. But where does the Bible stand on this issue? The Bible does not condone cruelty, either physical or mental. Ephesians 6:4 states: "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." The biblical emphasis is on teaching or educating children, not spanking (see Deut. 6:7; Prov. 22:6, etc.). But they are to be brought up with discipline. - Information Supplied By: Herbert W Armstrong Library