Focusing on the "what" of obedience and honor.
Moving toward a mentoring relationship as the teen learns to shepherd their own heart before God. 6. The Gospel Focus
Ultimately, Tripp argues that the law (rules) cannot save a child. Only the Gospel can. By showing a child their failure to meet God's standard, parents point them toward their need for a Savior. Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Trip
The goal of authority is to provide protection and direction, helping the child eventually transition from being under parental authority to being under God’s authority. 4. Communication as Shepherding
To help the child understand their own heart’s motivations and their need for God’s grace. 2. The "Shaping Influences" Focusing on the "what" of obedience and honor
Most parenting techniques focus on "behavior modification"—getting a child to act a certain way through rewards or punishments. Tripp suggests this is superficial. If you change the behavior without reaching the heart, you are simply training a child in hypocrisy.
Focusing on the "why" and developing godly traits. The Gospel Focus Ultimately, Tripp argues that the
Tripp identifies different types of communication needed for different situations: Validating and building up the child. Correction: Addressing specific wrongdoings. Rebuke: A firm warning against a dangerous path. Entreaty: Appealing to the child’s conscience and soul. 5. Stages of Development The book breaks down shepherding goals by age: