What could Adrian Peterson have done differently?

Adrian Peterson's mug shot.

The topic of discipline, specifically spanking, has been a hot topic this week, after Adrian Peterson [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adrian_Peterson], former running back of the Oklahoma Sooners and current running back for the Minnesota Vikings, was arrested and ultimately suspended for child abuse.

Prosecutors contend that Peterson abused his four-year-old son with a tree branch. Peterson reportedly whipped his son so severely that it caused injuries to the child’s back, legs, and backside. There were also defensive wounds to his hands. The wounds were obvious for days later

But this isn’t a story about “discipline.” This is a story about a broken and angry man assaulting his son. Without question, Peterson was wrong and must be held accountable for his actions. But as responsible parents we must be aware of the growing cultural assault on all forms of childhood discipline. There have been multitudes of blogs that have advocated alternate measures for discipline like “time outs” or “taking away privileges.”

Discipline is essential in training our children to become vibrant, godly disciples of Jesus. What could Adrian Peterson have done differently? I encourage you to watch this brief video by Dr. Timothy Paul Jones that addresses the topic. Watch this brief video.

Dr. Phil Sallee, Pastor
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