Ephesians 6:2 Commentary

Verse: "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise.

Introduction

This verse from Ephesians is a powerful reminder of the importance of familial respect and duty in a believer's life. It draws directly from the fifth commandment found in the Old Testament, emphasizing the value of honoring one's parents. Both Paul and previous commentators such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke have provided profound insights into the implications of this commandment, offering a multi-dimensional understanding crucial for pastors, theologians, and students alike.

Contextual Overview

In the letter to the Ephesians, Paul advises believers on various relational dynamics, culminating in Chapter 6 with directives to children and parents. This command forms part of a larger ethical teaching that urges believers to live in a manner that reflects their new identity in Christ.

Exposition of Ephesians 6:2

Honor Your Father and Mother

This command underscores the fundamental principle of respect that is essential for healthy family dynamics and societal structures. Inscribed in the Decalogue, it carries significant weight:

• Universal Application: Matthew Henry notes the universality of this command, asserting that it binds all individuals regardless of age. Children are not only to show respect but are called to act honorably toward their parents at every stage of life.
• Moral Duty: Adam Clarke points out that honoring parents is a reflection of one’s obedience to God. As those in authority, parents are due respect and reverence, and failing to honor them can signify a failure in recognizing God’s order.
• Practical Expression: Albert Barnes suggests that this honor is not merely superficial. It includes obedience, care, and the recognition of their role as God’s appointed authority in the lives of children. This duty remains even after the children have matured.

Which is the First Commandment with a Promise

Paul adds a significant note—this commandment comes with a promise, fostering a deeper understanding of the motivation behind honoring one’s parents. The promise of longevity and well-being is reiterated from the Old Testament:

• Divine Reward: According to Matthew Henry, this promise indicates that honoring parents can lead to a blessed life and manifests God’s approval. Obedience to this command is not merely for earthly stability but embodies a deeper spiritual truth.
• Connection to Covenant: Adam Clarke elaborates that the promise ties back to covenant relationships. It reveals God’s intention that harmony within families not only honors Him but fosters a society that reflects His kingdom.
• Life and Well-Being: Albert Barnes emphasizes that the promise is twofold—it encapsulates both life and prosperity, highlighting that honoring parents correlates directly with a path towards societal and personal well-being.

Theological Implications

Understanding this scripture requires recognizing its theological implications:

• Reflection of God’s Authority: By honoring parents, we affirm God’s authority in familial structures. This honor is a mimicry of our relationship with God Himself, emphasizing that how we honor our earthly parents defines our understanding of divine authority.
• Submission and Authority: The reciprocal relationship between parents and children embody a greater theme of submission present in Christian theology. Ephesians 6:1-4 illustrates the balance of authority where parents are to rear children in the fear of the Lord, and children respect that authority.

Practical Applications

For those in ministry or scholarly study, this verse serves as more than a familial directive—it offers practical applications that resonate throughout church life:

• Parent-Child Dynamics: Pastoral care can utilize this verse to emphasize the need for open dialogue about honor and respect within families, encouraging families to fulfill their God-given roles.
• Teaching Moments: In theological education, this passage can serve as a basis for discussions on authority and submission, illustrating how these dynamics play out in both ecclesiastical and familial settings.
• Counseling Framework: Counselors can encourage individuals to reflect on their relationship with their parents to understand how these dynamics shape their view of God and authority. This can unveil areas needing healing and restoration.

Conclusion

Ephesians 6:2 brings forth timeless truths that speak to the heart of familial relationships and echoes the character of God’s love and authority. As we delve deeper into the implications of honoring our parents, the collaboration of insights from esteemed theologians such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enriches our understanding, guiding us toward applying these biblical principles in our lives, churches, and communities.