Little Children: Discipline That Hurts, Love That Heals

In 1986, my father preached Little Children, a sermon on 1 John 2:12–14, Hebrews 12:11, and Matthew 18:3. He unpacked the biblical Greek words technia (beloved children) and paideia (discipline that shapes character), showing how Christian discipline is more than punishment — it is love, guidance, and belonging.

I revisit that sermon through the lens of my own family. Lucas’s childhood prayers, Rebecca’s quick negotiations, Corey’s fearless fire, and my own whiny, attention-seeking ways all reflect what it means to grow as “little children” in faith and in life. This is a journey through scripture, memory, and the shaping that never ends.

Keywords: 1 John sermon, Hebrews 12 sermon, Matthew 18 sermon, biblical Greek, technia meaning, paideia meaning, Christian discipline, spiritual growth, childhood faith, parenting and faith, sermons of my father.