Which verse advocates beating a child to prevent stubbornness?

• A. Proverbs 23:14
• B. Sirach 30:12
• C. Colossians 3:20
• D. Exodus 20:12

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that parental discipline can be a deliberate tool for shaping a child’s behavior, with correction used to prevent stubbornness and guide character. In Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 30:12, the text presents disciplined guidance of a child as a wise, purposeful act intended to form obedience and curb obstinacy. This makes it the best fit for the prompt, since it explicitly links corrective measures to preventing stubbornness. The other mentioned scriptures touch on honoring parents or obeying them and, while they relate to upbringing, they do not convey the same direct link between physical correction and preventing obstinacy. It’s helpful to keep in mind the historical context of these passages and the modern emphasis on compassionate, non-hviolent approaches to discipline.