Intro
- God commissions us to train and disciple our children: Deut 6, Matt 28
- Parents only focus on the child’s mind and behavior
- The book points out biblical method is to address the heart
- Prov 23:15-19
Critique
- Abstract: General theme, Summary, Key lesson
- Response: relate to personal exp, stories,
- Reflection: questions pop up, how to make the book better,
- Action: 2 actions after reading: life, ministry, work,
Introduction
Abstract
To begin the book, Tripp warned readers to set a proper expectation. The book is not a
guidebook full of tips and or ideas that have immediate application to the children. In daily life,
parents have their top ten list of problems they would like to know, to deal with the teaching and
training up their children. The author pointed out that parents need more than tips and ideas, they
need solid biblical truth [6]. For each family, each parent, each child has their own need and in
different circumstances, following tips and strategies won’t solve the root of the problem.
Thankfully, God left us with His word and His truth, in which parenting skills can be build on.
The book is arranged in three sections. The first one introduce parents to “formative
instruction”. In second section, Tripp focus on more specific topics about the substance of
formative instruction: the importance of the heart, sowing and reaping, God’s plan for authority,
the glory of God, wisdom and foolishness, how we are complete in Christ, and the importance of
the church [7]. Finally, the third section conclude with application of the formative instruction.
This is where the “practical” instruction comes in: correction, discipline and motivation in the
connection between formative instruction and corrective discipline, getting from the behaviors to
the heart, and communication basis for corrective discipline.
In the first section, the book makes an analogy that both the parents and the children are
engaging in a spiritual battle everyday. The secular culture becomes more and more influencing
toward how we raise our children, and how the children view the world. To deal with this, we
need “formative instruction”. The author explained that formative instruction forms and shapes
our children. “Formative instruction is teaching that “forms” our children. It enables them to root
life in God’s revelation in the Bible. It provides a culture for our children, a culture that is
distinctly Christian. It shows our children the glory and excellence of God. It helps them
understand the dignity of mankind as God’s image bearers. It provides a way of interpreting life
through the redemptive story of God, who reconciles people to himself.”[19] Using this method,
the parents prepare for their children before the problems arise, redefine their biblical worldview
of what is valuable, what is worth living and dying for…
To make it more clear, Tripp distinguishe formative instruction and corrective discipline.
“Formative instruction should be happening all the time. Discipline should be applied only when
behavior needs to be corrected. If the only time we instruct is when our children need discipline,
our children will not listen to our instruction for fear of the discipline.”[12] He also suggested
five goals that can give energy and shape our formative instruction: “Remember Scripture is our
personal history, Develop godly habits, Apply Scripture to life, Model spiritual vitality, Grow
into a mature relationship with your children”.[14]
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
