Week 1: Introduction — Getting to the Heart of Behavior

1.Tripp opens by challenging the idea that the goal of parenting is to produce well-behaved, successful children. What does he propose as the true goal of parenting, and why does the difference matter?

2.He distinguishes between addressing behavior and addressing the heart. In your own words, what is the difference? Can you think of a recent parenting moment where you focused on behavior but left the heart untouched?

3.Luke 6:43-45 is the theological backbone of Tripp's whole approach — the tree and its fruit. How does this passage reframe how you think about your child's outbursts, lies, or defiance?

4.Tripp argues that many Christian parents have simply adopted the parenting methods of the surrounding culture and baptized them with Bible verses. Does that critique feel fair? Where do you see it in your own approach?

5.The introduction hints that parents themselves need the gospel, not just their children. Why is it important that a book on parenting begin with the parent's own spiritual condition rather than jumping straight to techniques?

6.What one assumption about parenting are you bringing into this study that you are most willing to have challenged or changed?