Christian critics of Ezzo's material come from a wide spectrum of denominational backgrounds and parenting styles. Nevertheless, they tend to share similar concerns.
- tendency toward legalism (even while advising parents not to be legalistic).
- use of prooftexting and scripture twisting to give weight and urgency to the ideas presented
- confusion between biblical principle and application, sometimes presenting the Ezzos' favored application as the actual biblical principle, making it a moral standard
- emphasis on the moralism of good behavior -- often as defined by Western etiquette -- rather than hearts turned toward Jesus
- Portrayal of other parenting approaches as unbiblical by mischaracterizing the beliefs and results
Some good, practical and biblical ideas may be found in the Ezzos' material. However, the presence of the above dynamics can make it harder for parents to glean the good, and often contributes to parents being overly eager or rigid in applying the ideas. When these concerns are taken together with those presented elsewhere on this site, there is the potential for trouble.
Essential Reading:
"More than a Parenting Ministry"
by Kathleen Terner and Elliot Miller, Christian Research Journal, Christian Research Institute
"The Ethics of Ezzo"
by Tony Payne, The Briefing, Matthias Media (despite the title, the article is about how Ezzo uses the Bible in his presentation.)
"An Evaluation of Ezzo Parenting Programs"
by Dr. Kent McClain
"Growing Kids the Ezzo Way"
by Dr. Philip Ryken, 10th Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia
"A Critique of Growing Kids God's Way"
Biblical Discernment Ministries
For Further Information:
