What does the Bible say about corporal punishment?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible permits loving, measured parental discipline as part of wise nurture, while strictly forbidding harshness, cruelty, and anger. Proverbs commends correction as an expression of faithful love and a means of training children away from folly (Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; 23:13-14; 29:15). Yet these sayings do not authorize abuse or make physical punishment the only form of discipline. Parents are to instruct, correct, and patiently guide their children, remembering that discipline must serve their good. Ephesians 6:4 and Colossians 3:21 require fathers especially not to provoke or discourage their children, but to raise them in the Lord's instruction. Christian discipline should reflect God's just, compassionate fatherly care.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 13:24
One who spares the rod hates his son, But one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
- Proverbs 23:13-14
[13] Don't withhold correction from a child. If you punish him with the rod, he will not die. [14] Punish him with the rod, And save his soul from Sheol.
- Proverbs 22:15
Folly is bound up in the heart of a child: The rod of discipline drives it far from him.
- Proverbs 29:15
The rod of correction gives wisdom, But a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
- Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
- Ephesians 6:4
You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
- Proverbs 20:30
Wounding blows cleanse away evil, And beatings purge the innermost parts.
- Proverbs 19:18
Discipline your son, for there is hope; Don't be a willing party to his death.
- Colossians 3:21
Fathers, don't provoke your children, so that they won't be discouraged.
- Proverbs 23:13
Don't withhold correction from a child. If you punish him with the rod, he will not die.
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