Rubato 1 said:
I believe that consistent Bible interpretation would show that figures like the 'rod' are both figurative and literal. This is often true of figures in the Bible.
The rod is the most effective tool for training. However, if the child is wise, then soon a look, even across a crowded room, will be enough of a 'rod' to correct the child. But this is not because the child naturally avoids physical pain, rather that the look reminds the child of the potential pain of the rod. If the rod is administered correctly, by teenage years, the child will be motivated by love, and not fear. Then, risk of dissapointment is that figurative 'rod' that will punish that child mentally if he disobeys.
Well put!!!
I know until my mother died at 93 or my father died at 61, I didn't want to do anything to disappoint them. They used shall we say the rod on me, but I don't ever recall it after 9 or 10 years of age,( keep in mind that was back in the 40's and 50's) shall we say I became a wiser child.
My coaches in HS and collage would use a type of discipline, like run for an hour or so or do a 100 or so push up or be the bull in the bull in the ring, I all so became a little wise.
As a preacher friend of mine told me when I ask him back in the 60's, why he didn't do more teaching on how to bring up your children, he said, lets see how mine turn out when they are in their 30's, 40's and 50's. He said lets see if they live for Christ or self. He said mine could turn out like Billy Sundays or worst.
I have been blessed up till now, I have 3 children from 43 down to 12 and no problems with them up till this point, much time is left to see with the 12 year old but she has been brought up the same as the older two and I haven't had to spank her after about age 5.
