Apr 13
29
Doctrinal Standard #66
- Q. What is the reason for the fifth commandment?
- A. The reason for the fifth commandment is the promise of long life and prosperity, if these glorify God and are for the good of those who obey this commandment.
Memory Verses
- “For the Lord is our judge; the Lord is our lawgiver; the Lord is our king; he will save us” (Isaiah 33:22, ESV).
Scripture
- Study Passage: Romans 13:1-7
- Support Passages: I Peter 2:13-18; Matthew 22:15-22; Genesis 9:5-7; Numbers 35:29-34; Luke 3:7-14; Acts 4:19-21, 5:27-32
- Bible Story: Acts 17:1-9
Thoughts
- Below is taken from “Training Hearts, Teaching Minds” Page 220-221.
- “God first gave the fifth commandment to the Israelites. He promised they would live long in the Promised Land if they kept it. God’s people no longer live in one special country. Does that mean this promise is no longer good? No, the apostle Paul repeated the promise in the New Testament, when God’s people lived in many different countries. Read it in Ephesians 6:1-3. This promise does not mean that the only people who die young are those who failed to honor their parents. Usually, those who honor parents and follow their advice will stay healthier and live longer than those who ignore what their parents tell them.
- “God tells us to keep this commandment so that it will go well with us and we will enjoy life on the earth. The book of Proverbs shows us some ways this happens. Read Proverbs 1:8-9. A garland on your head or chain or necklace on your neck makes you more attractive. Does this mean you will be better-looking if you honor your parents? No, but you will be more attractive. When we honor our parents by paying attention to their instruction, we will have character qualities that make us more attractive to others and that please God. When our character is Christ like and we live to please God, things will go well with us and we will enjoy life.” [1]
Discussion Questions
- What is the promise associated with honoring your parents?
- Is this promise a guarantee or a principal? Explain.
- Why do you think this promise works?
- Can you think of real life examples of this promise coming true?
- What ways can you better honor your parents?
[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.
