Meaning of Ephesians 6:2

This verse, Ephesians 6:2, directly quotes the commandment found in the Decalogue (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16), identifying it as the first commandment that carries an explicit promise. The apostle Paul's inclusion of this Old Testament law within his letter to the Ephesians, a Gentile church, underscores its fundamental importance not only for Jewish society but also for the nascent Christian community. The promise attached to this commandment, as elaborated in the Old Testament text, is "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." This signifies that honoring parents is not merely a social obligation but is divinely ordained and linked to blessing and well-being.

Context and Background

Paul is addressing the practical outworking of Christian life within the household and society. In Ephesians 5, he discusses the mutual responsibilities within marriage, and in chapter 6, he moves to the relationship between children and parents, and then masters and slaves. The commandment to honor parents was deeply ingrained in Jewish understanding, stemming from the Mosaic Law. Jesus himself affirmed its importance (Matthew 15:4-6), even rebuking those who used tradition to circumvent its obligations. Paul's emphasis here is on the divine origin and binding nature of this ethical principle for believers.

Key Themes and Messages

The central theme is honor, which encompasses respect, obedience, and care for one's parents. This is not conditional on the parents' perfection but is a principle of righteousness. The verse highlights that this commandment is unique in being the first of the Ten Commandments to be explicitly paired with a promise of blessing. This suggests that a well-ordered family, built on respect for parental authority, is foundational to a flourishing society and a life pleasing to God. The promise implies a tangible reward in this life, suggesting that obedience to this divine command contributes to a stable and prosperous existence.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, honoring parents is an act of obedience to God's revealed will. It reflects an understanding of divine order and authority, as parents are typically God's appointed representatives in a child's early life. For believers, this commandment extends beyond mere filial duty; it is a demonstration of their commitment to God's word and their desire for His blessings. The application involves not only respecting their wishes and providing for them in their old age but also maintaining a respectful attitude and attitude, even when disagreements arise.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This commandment is a cornerstone of God's ethical framework for humanity, established from the earliest stages of Israel's covenant relationship. It reflects the created order where authority structures are put in place for guidance and protection. The promise of long life and well-being can be seen as a foreshadowing of the blessings of the New Covenant, where obedience to God's commands leads to spiritual life and eternal prosperity. The principle of honoring those in authority, established with parents, finds resonance in later commands regarding honoring rulers and church leaders.

Analogies

One analogy for honoring parents is that of roots to a tree. Just as a tree needs strong, healthy roots to stand tall, bear fruit, and withstand storms, individuals need the foundation of a respectful relationship with their parents to grow into mature, resilient, and fruitful adults. Another analogy is that of building a house. The foundation must be solid and well-laid for the entire structure to be stable and enduring. Honoring parents is akin to laying a strong foundation for one's life and for the community.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 20:12 & Deuteronomy 5:16: These are the direct sources of the commandment, providing the full text and context of the promise.
• Colossians 3:20: "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." This verse reinforces the obedience aspect of honoring parents and links it directly to pleasing God.
• Matthew 15:4-6: Jesus quotes this commandment and criticizes the Pharisees for allowing traditions that nullified its command to care for aging parents. This highlights the enduring importance and the potential for religious hypocrisy to undermine it.
• 1 Timothy 5:4, 8: These verses speak to the responsibility of adult children to support their widowed mothers and provide for their own families, extending the concept of care and honor into practical support.