Discipline remains an important part of maintaining order in schools, churches and other institutions, but the effectiveness of punishment depends largely on how it is administered, Reverend Benjamin has said.
Speaking on Nyansapo Fie on Plan B FM, hosted by Akosua Gyamfua, Rev. Benjamin said disciplinary measures lose their corrective value when they are driven by anger, frustration or a desire for revenge.
He explained that while institutions have established codes of conduct and corresponding sanctions, those responsible for administering discipline must remain calm and emotionally detached to ensure that punishment achieves its intended purpose.
According to him, correction should be aimed at changing behaviour rather than humiliating or hurting the individual involved.
Rev. Benjamin identified consistency as another key factor in effective discipline, particularly in schools. He said when rules and their consequences are applied fairly and consistently, children are better able to understand the connection between their actions and the outcomes.
He noted that a predictable disciplinary system helps young people develop a sense of responsibility and accountability, rather than leaving them confused by sanctions that appear to depend on the mood of whoever is enforcing the rules.
Turning to the church, Rev. Benjamin said discipline serves both a restorative and preventive purpose. He explained that while correction should help restore an individual who has gone wrong, it can also serve as a warning to others.
He, however, expressed concern about situations where church members leave their congregations after being corrected publicly, making it difficult for church authorities to uphold established standards.
Rev. Benjamin urged Christians to view discipline differently, arguing that correction should not automatically be interpreted as hatred or rejection.
He said a lack of correction can sometimes indicate neglect rather than love, stressing that genuine Christian maturity requires individuals to accept constructive discipline and use it as an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth.
He further noted that church leaders are also subject to accountability. Pastors who violate institutional standards, for instance, may face administrative measures such as being transferred from larger congregations to smaller parishes.
He said such measures demonstrate that discipline applies to everyone, regardless of position, and should ultimately be aimed at preserving integrity, humility and accountability.
Rev. Benjamin concluded that the key difference between destructive punishment and constructive discipline lies in the approach.
He said punishment driven by anger often breeds resentment, while discipline administered with love, fairness and understanding can lead to meaningful behavioural change.
He therefore encouraged educators, parents and religious leaders to combine firm boundaries with calm communication and efforts to understand the underlying reasons behind misconduct.
According to him, when discipline is administered with empathy, consistency and a genuine desire to correct rather than condemn, it can become a powerful tool for lasting transformation.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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