“The liturgy of spanking often teaches as much as the spanking itself does. A child when grown will no doubt have forgotten all the various offenses he ‘caught it’ for. But he will remember, and fairly clearly, how the process usually went. Even if he doesn’t remember that process consciously, all he needs to do is wait until he begins disciplining his own children, and it will all come flooding back. Here is a suggested liturgy: First, the child has the offense explained to him. It’s very important that this be calm and judicial and not done in anger. Then, the spanking is administered, with the swats varying according to the offense. Next, the child is held until he stops crying, the child is assured that everything is completely forgiven, and the world is a new place. Finally, parent and child pray together, thanking God for the forgiveness.” (My Life for Yours, p. 121)
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Most of the posts here are simply copied text from someone else — how does this constitute a ‘writing exercise’ or your own thoughts…?
In his spanking liturgy, I wonder what passage he uses as a basis for “not done in anger.” I think some discipline needs to be done in this kind of detached way, but I believe that not only does there exist a Scriptural basis for anger, but that when we don’t get angry, we do not dislike a child’s sin enough. The child grows up with the same unusual emotional neutrality to sinning.
In response to “anonymous,” I agree. Lately most of these posts have been copied text of what I am currently reading, and I try to make that clear in the title. If you don’t want to read what someone else wrote, skip it. I feel by designating that in the title everyone (including myself) recognizes that it is not a writing exercise! As my schedule lightens, there will be a better balance between my writing and others’ writings. BTW, not many people seem to care about what I write. I have many more comments about what I’m reading than what I’m writing.
As far as the “not done in anger,” I think this would come from the idea of being spiritual when we correct/restore a brother (Galatians 6:1). I don’t know his practice, but I agree with your point that we must be angry with sin. I think that the important point in this aspect of discipline is that we do not sin (lose our temper) in our anger.
“BTW, not many people seem to care about what I write. I have many more comments about what I’m reading than what I’m writing.”
Actually that is not true. Orignality is the key to writing.
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Even if he doesn’t remember that process consciously, all he needs to do is wait until he begins disciplining his own children, and it will all come flooding back”
That is so very true. It is a big eye opener once you have your own children.