Lord’s Library editors answer the question “What does the Bible say about discipline?” with specific Bible references.
Have you ever asked yourself the question “What does the Bible say about discipline?” If you have, you’re definitely not alone! And since the Bible helps Christians form a foundational understanding of important topics, it’s imperative that one know how Scripture describes discipline in different contexts.
The Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines discipline as “Education; instruction; cultivation and improvement, comprehending instruction in arts, sciences, correct sentiments, morals and manners, and due subordination to authority.”
Lord’s Library editors thought it would be a helpful exercise to provide Biblical context. As a result, we compiled this short resource which captures all notable mentions of the word discipline, as well as its other forms. If you’ve been wondering what the King James Bible says about discipline, scroll on for additional detail.
Note: If you want to know what the Bible says about discipline and 206 other important topics (to be exact), our editors recommend Spencer Smith’s Doctrine Matters: Bible Topic Guidebook.
What Does the Bible Say About Discipline?
Job 36:10
“He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity.”
Hebrews 12:5-6
“And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”
Revelation 3:19
“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.”
Proverbs 23:13
“Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.”
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 15:10
“Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.”
Proverbs 22:15
“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.”
2 Timothy 3:16
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”
1 Timothy 4:11-12
“These things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
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