Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
Week 4: Chapter 3 — Discipline of Fatherhood
Read Chapter 3 of Disciplines of a Godly Man. Primary Scripture: Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Psalm 127:3–5.
Previewing Week 4 of Disciplines of a Godly Man
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 20-week guide when you’re ready.
Hughes insists that fatherhood is not a biological category but a spiritual calling — one that requires the same intentional discipline as any other area of godliness. These questions are designed to help you assess and reimagine your role as a father.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Hughes opens with the sobering reality that many men are physically present in their homes but emotionally and spiritually absent. What distinguishes a father who is merely *there* from one who is genuinely *engaged*?
2.Ephesians 6:4 commands fathers not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the "discipline and instruction of the Lord." Hughes points out that both over-harshness and passivity violate this verse. Which temptation is stronger for you — and why?
3.Hughes draws on Deuteronomy 6 to argue that the primary venue for passing on faith is not Sunday school or youth group — it is the ordinary, daily life of the home ("when you sit, walk, lie down, rise up"). What does intentional, everyday faith-transmission look like in practical terms for a family like yours?