Since proper disciplinary action can only come from Someone who is in a position of true authority (mentor, rabbi, teacher, coach, etc.) it is important to place God in this spectrum. Besides the obvious that God is the deity whom Israel worships, God is their parent as well.
As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear Him. Psalms 103:13 (ESV)
… for the LORD reproves him who he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:12 (ESV)
It is worth mentioning that theologian Claus Westermann speaks to the Hebrew word MHR, meaning “mother’s womb” as a word that defines God’s love for Israel in a familiar sort. * So as a parent his love for His children will elave room for God to take the necessary, even severe, actions in order that His children may learn to grow and become righteous before Him.
* Claus Westermann. What does the Old Testament Say About God. John Knox Press. Atlanta, GA. 1979. p. 58.
Tags: Discipline, God, Israel, Old Testament
