FIFTH COMMANDMENT: HONORING PARENTS

Ephesians 6:2-3 (KJV) “Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the profound significance of the fifth commandment, exploring themes of honor, obedience, and discipline through biblical teachings and inspired insights. It examines how these principles reflect divine love, outline our duties toward God and neighbors, highlight consequences of transgression, and provide examples for living faithfully, ultimately guiding the community toward harmonious relationships and spiritual growth.

COMMANDMENT CALL: HONOR REVEALED!

The fifth commandment, Exodus 20:12 (KJV), commands: “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” This divine directive establishes a foundation for family relationships, underscoring respect, care, and obedience toward parents. In Ephesians 6:1–3 (KJV), the Apostle Paul reinforces this commandment by emphasizing obedience as an act of righteousness: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” Similarly, Colossians 3:20 (KJV) teaches us to adopt a renewed spiritual nature: “Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.” Ellen G. White explains that honoring parents encompasses more than outward obedience. She states: “The fifth commandment requires children not only to yield respect, submission, and obedience to their parents, but also to give them love and tenderness, to lighten their cares, to guard their reputation, and to succor and comfort them in old age.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 308, 1890). Children’s obligations extend beyond physical care; they must also safeguard their parents’ dignity and uphold their legacy. The Bible also confirms this truth in Proverbs 1:8 (KJV): “My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.” Leviticus 19:3 (KJV) further supports the call to reverence: “Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I am the Lord your God.” Sr. White adds: “The obligation resting upon children to honor their parents is of lifelong duration. If the parents are feeble and old, the affection and attention of the children should be bestowed in honor to the God who has given them these parents.” (The Adventist Home, p. 360, 1952). She also notes: “Children who dishonor and disobey their parents, and disregard their advice and instructions, can have no part in the earth made new.” (The Adventist Home, p. 294, 1952). This principle reflects God’s broader design for relationships, emphasizing selflessness and humility. By honoring parents, children learn values that extend to all aspects of life, creating harmonious homes and communities. But how does the ultimate model of obedience exemplify this commandment in action?

SAVIOR’S SUPREME SUBMISSION!

The childhood of Jesus provides a model for godly obedience. Luke 2:40–52 (KJV): “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.” “As a child, Jesus manifested a peculiar loveliness of disposition. His willing hands were ever ready to serve others. He manifested a patience that nothing could disturb, and a truthfulness that would never sacrifice integrity.” (The Desire of Ages, pp. 68, 69, 1898). Even at the cross, Jesus demonstrated love and honor toward His mother. John 19:25–27 (KJV): “Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother!” “O pitiful, loving Saviour; amid all His physical pain and mental anguish, He had a thoughtful care for His mother.” (The Desire of Ages, pp. 151, 152, 1898). Jesus’ actions teach us to honor parents not only in childhood but throughout life, reflecting God’s love even in suffering. This truth shines through in Proverbs 30:11 (KJV): “There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.” Deuteronomy 5:16 (KJV) echoes the promise: “Honour thy father and thy mother, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” Sr. White emphasizes: “Be obedient to your parents. Listen to their counsels; for if they love and fear God, upon them will be laid the responsibility of educating, disciplining, and training you in right lines lest you grieve the Spirit of God and become disqualified to be missionaries for Him.” (The Adventist Home, p. 298, 1952). She further observes: “… your parents the honor and affection that are due to them, who manifest but little love to father and mother, and fail to honor them in deferring to their wishes …” (The Adventist Home, p. 293, 1952). Love proves selfless and enduring, even in suffering. Jesus’ actions reflect God’s deep compassion, teaching us to prioritize care for others as a reflection of divine love. Yet, how do these actions mirror broader expressions of God’s affection?

DIVINE DEVOTION DISPLAYED!

The concepts of honoring parents, accepting discipline, and demonstrating obedience reflect God’s love by illustrating His desire for order, respect, and nurturing relationships. The command to honor parents in Exodus 20:12 (KJV)—”Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee”—demonstrates God’s intention to establish families as centers of love, respect, and support. This divine structure mirrors God’s care for His children, as stated by Sr. White: “Parents are entitled to a degree of love and respect which is due to no other person. God Himself…has ordained that during the earlier years of life, parents shall stand in the place of God to their children.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 308, 1890). Honoring parents teaches children to obey and trust God, fostering spiritual growth. Parental authority stands divinely appointed to reflect God’s nurturing role in our lives. By respecting their parents, children learn to honor their heavenly Father, laying the foundation for a lifelong relationship with God. Malachi 1:6 (KJV) questions authority: “A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the Lord of hosts unto you.” 1 Timothy 5:4 (KJV) urges repayment: “But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.” Sr. White affirms: “… will honor your parents; you will not only do what they tell you but will watch for opportunities to help them. In doing this you are working for Jesus. He considers this as done to Himself.” (The Adventist Home, p. 295, 1952). She also teaches: “By learning the lesson of obedience, children are not only honoring their parents and lightening their burdens, but they are pleasing One higher in authority.” (The Youth’s Instructor, not listed, 1900). God’s love is reflected through discipline, which aims not to punish but to refine. Proverbs 3:11–12 (KJV) affirms: “My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” Sr. White echoes this sentiment: “God corrects us for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.” (Education, p. 291, 1903). Discipline, like parental correction, stems from God’s love and desire to shape His children into holy, righteous individuals. It teaches patience, humility, and faith, reflecting God’s ultimate goal of preparing us for eternal life. What responsibilities do these principles impose upon us toward our Creator?

Based on the concepts of honoring parents, accepting discipline, and demonstrating obedience, we owe God our respect, submission, and unwavering trust, as these principles mirror our duty to Him as our Creator and Sustainer. Ecclesiastes 12:13 (KJV) declares: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Obeying God’s commandments, including honoring parents, centers on fulfilling our responsibilities to Him. Sr. White supports this idea, stating: “The requirements of God must be held paramount; and His law, as it is revealed in His Word, must be recognized as above all human authority.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 622, 1890). Just as children receive calls to honor and obey their parents, we face commands to honor and obey God. Submission to earthly authority teaches us how to submit to divine authority, reflecting humility and reverence for God. Furthermore, we owe God gratitude, service, and worship. Romans 12:1 (KJV) emphasizes this obligation: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Sr. White expands on this by explaining: “To obey the law of God means to yield to Him our affections and will. It means to devote ourselves to His service and live for His glory.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 98, 1898). Honoring God involves more than outward actions; it requires a heartfelt dedication to serve Him and live according to His principles. By obeying His commandments, we reflect His love and holiness in our lives. Psalm 119:1-2 (KJV) blesses obedience: “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.” Deuteronomy 10:12 (KJV) asks: “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” Sr. White instructs: “When parents fail to require prompt and perfect obedience in their children, they fail to lay the right foundation of character in their little ones.” (The Adventist Home, p. 361, 1952). She also warns: “If you obey, you shall live long in the land which the Lord your God gives you. If you disobey, you shall not prolong your life in that land.” (The Adventist Home, p. 292, 1952). How do these duties extend to those around us?

Based on the concepts of honoring parents, accepting discipline, and demonstrating obedience, we owe our neighbors love, respect, kindness, and selfless service, reflecting God’s commandments to love one another. Leviticus 19:18 (KJV) commands: “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.” Our treatment of others mirrors the love and respect we show to God and our parents. Sr. White reinforces this principle, stating: “Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 384, 1900). Love and service to others flow naturally from a heart transformed by God’s grace. Just as honoring parents fosters humility and care, showing love to neighbors reflects God’s character and fulfills His commandment to treat others with compassion. Further truth comes from Matthew 7:12 (KJV): “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Sr. White elaborates: “The standard of the golden rule is the true standard of Christianity. Anything short of it is deception.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 136, 1896). Treating others fairly and kindly embodies God’s law, creating unity and harmony. Galatians 5:14 (KJV) summarizes: “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” James 2:8 (KJV) calls it royal: “If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well.” Sr. White advises: “Let only pleasant words be spoken by parents to their children, and respectful words by children to their parents. Attention must be given to these small matters.” (The Adventist Home, p. 437, 1952). She further states: “He desires them to be His little missionaries, denying their own inclinations and desires for selfish pleasure to do service for others; and this service is just as essential for their prosperity in health and happiness.” (The Adventist Home, p. 486, 1952). By living selflessly and upholding these values, we demonstrate God’s love and honor His commandments, building relationships that reflect His grace and preparing others for His kingdom. What happens when we fail to uphold these principles?

DIRE DISOBEDIENCE DOOM!

Failing to honor parents carries grave consequences. Proverbs 30:17 (KJV) warns: “The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.” Similarly, Exodus 21:15, 17 (KJV) mandates strict penalties: “And he that smiteth his father, or his mother, shall be surely put to death.” “And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.” These verses highlight the seriousness of dishonoring parents, symbolizing spiritual and social disintegration. Sr. White expands on this concept: “The youth who has been left to follow his own inclinations without restraint or instruction will, in manhood, follow his own undisciplined will. He will neither respect nor obey God, and he will have little regard for man.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 378, 1890). Neglecting parental honor reflects deeper rebellion against God’s authority. Sr. White warns that such disobedience leads to moral decay: “When children do not honor their parents, they are prepared to break the commands of God and to rebel against His authority.” (Child Guidance, p. 87, 1954). Deuteronomy 21:18-21 (KJV) describes judgment: “If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that, when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them: Then shall his father and his mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the elders of his city, and unto the gate of his place; And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard. And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.” Matthew 15:4 (KJV) reaffirms: “For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.” Sr. White cautions: “Children who dishonor and disobey their parents, and disregard their advice and instructions …” (The Adventist Home, p. 294, 1952). She also notes: “The fifth commandment requires children not only to yield respect, submission, and obedience to their parents, but …” (The Adventist Home, p. 293, 1952). The consequences of disobedience are both personal and societal. Spiritually, it creates separation from God; socially, it erodes respect for authority, leading to chaos and instability. How does discipline play a role in preventing such outcomes?

WISE WHIPPING WISDOM!

Discipline serves as a tool for teaching wisdom and humility. Proverbs 3:11–12 (KJV): “My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” This passage portrays discipline as an act of love, intended for growth and refinement rather than punishment. Sr. White underscores that discipline is vital for character development: “Let none think it is an easy task to train children. It requires patient effort, persevering labor, and prayerful attention to detail. Firmness and love must be blended in all dealings with children.” (Child Guidance, p. 283, 1954). She likens parental discipline to divine correction, emphasizing its spiritual purpose: “God corrects us for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness. If we will allow ourselves to be corrected, we shall be led by His Spirit and prepared for greater usefulness.” (Education, p. 291, 1903). Parents act as God’s stewards, shaping children to reflect His character. Through discipline, children learn self-control, respect, and faith. Proverbs 13:24 (KJV) instructs: “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” Hebrews 12:11 (KJV) promises fruit: “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” Sr. White explains: “From their babyhood she is to discipline them to self-restraint and self-denial, to habits of neatness and order.” (The Adventist Home, p. 236, 1952). She adds: “Unless children can be trained and disciplined from their babyhood by a wise and judicious mother who is conscientious and intelligent, and who rules her household aright, the work of fitting them for the society of angels will be neglected.” (The Adventist Home, p. 164, 1952). What biblical stories illustrate the power of such obedience?

BIBLICAL OBEDIENCE BLAST!

The story of Isaac and Abraham in Genesis 22:6–12 (KJV) demonstrates trust and submission: “And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.” “And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.” “And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God.” “At the appointed place they built the altar and laid the wood upon it. Then, with trembling voice, Abraham unfolded to his son the divine message. It was with terror and amazement that Isaac learned his fate; but he offered no resistance. He could have escaped his doom, had he chosen to do so.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 152, 1890). Isaac’s obedience foreshadowed Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. Sr. White further reflects: “The faith of Abraham and the submission of Isaac represent the unparalleled sacrifice made by the Father and the Son to secure man’s redemption.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 154, 1890). This example highlights unwavering faith and the transformative power of obedience. 1 Samuel 3:13 (KJV) shows neglect’s peril: “For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not.” Proverbs 6:20 (KJV) urges: “My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother.” Sr. White states: “Right principles must be established in the mind of the child.” (The Adventist Home, p. 323, 1954). She also teaches: “If the children and youth are not carefully trained and disciplined, they will surely go astray.” (The Adventist Home, p. 249, 1952). These concepts—honoring parents, accepting discipline, and obeying God’s commands—demonstrate God’s love by promoting respect, spiritual growth, and selflessness. They serve as earthly reminders of His care, shaping individuals and families to reflect His character and prepare for eternal fellowship. Our responsibilities to God include obedience, worship, and service, modeled after the principles of honoring parents and accepting discipline. These acts of faith and devotion honor God’s authority, demonstrate our trust in Him, and prepare us for eternal fellowship. Our responsibilities to our neighbors include love, fairness, and service, mirroring the obedience and respect we owe to God.

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FIFTH COMMANDMENT: HONORING PARENTS

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