Many parents today feel tired, uncertain, or even trapped by the very children they love. They know they should guide, correct, and lead, but they often aren’t sure how—or whether they’re even allowed to. I’ve watched many faithful Christian parents lose confidence in their God-given role, not because they are weak or unloving, but because our culture has quietly taught them to doubt their own authority. This class is meant to restore that confidence.

Christian parents are called to be the first pastors of their children: to lead them patiently, to train them wisely, and to correct them when necessary. This is not a burden but a grace. Yet many things in our surrounding culture—confusing parenting philosophies, mixed messages about discipline, and a deep suspicion toward any form of authority—make it difficult for parents to know how to shepherd their children well.

Over the years I’ve noticed three particular confusions that tend to leave parents stuck. Some believe they should treat children as if they were already mature, their parent’s equal. Others assume that the same approach works for every age and season. Still others hesitate to correct their children at all, as if children were naturally wise and would “find their way” if simply given space. These confusions are understandable—but they leave both parent and child adrift.

My hope in this series is not to give a new set of rules, nor to defend a single method of parenting. Instead, I want to offer three guiding principles—three stable points—that help parents regain a biblical, pastoral imagination for their work. These principles won’t answer every question, but they will help frame the questions in a way that brings clarity, freedom, and courage.

Parents are not helpless. You are not trapped. God has entrusted you with real authority, real wisdom, and real grace for raising your children. My prayer is that this class strengthens your hands, steadies your heart, and renews your joy in shepherding the little ones God has given you.

Session 1 — Authority: The Parent as Pastor (Commission, Calling, and Confidence)

Principle: Parents have divine pastoral authority.

Lie: Parent and child are equals; imposed will is harmful.

Content: Scripture, pastoral identity, cultural critique, confidence.

Session 2 — Training: Two Modes of Pastoral Formation (Outside-In and Inside-Out)

Principle: Two pastoral modes—outside-in & inside-out.

Lie: One model fits all ages.

Content: Training (primary mode), habit-formation, gentle “violence", age discernment, imagination.

Session 3 — Discipline: Foolishness, Rebellion, and Just Discipline: Restoring Order Through Wisdom

Principle: Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child & the fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom

Lie: Children are pure self-creators.

Content: Anthropology, the will, training vs. rebellion, just discipline, corporal punishment, restoring order.