Commentary on Matthew 15:4

Matthew 15:4 reads: "For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death." This verse encapsulates significant theological and ethical considerations surrounding the commandments of God regarding family relationships.

Introduction

The context of this verse reveals a confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees, who questioned the adherence to traditions over the moral law of God. This commentary aims to provide a deep exploration of the themes presented in Matthew 15:4, utilizing insights from notable public domain commentaries.

Exegesis

• Divine Commandments: Matthew Henry emphasizes the authority of God's commandments, particularly noting that honoring one's parents is not only a duty but a divine command. This command has its roots in the Decalogue, specifically the fifth commandment, indicating its centrality in moral order.
• Serious Consequence: Clarke notes the severe warning against cursing one's parents. The phrase "let him die the death" highlights the gravity with which God regards familial relationships, suggesting a societal and spiritual obligation to revere and support parental figures.
• Comparative Traditions: Albert Barnes examines how Jesus contrasted the commandment with the traditions of the Pharisees—a pivotal cultural instruction at the time. He elucidates that the Pharisees often placed their interpretations and traditions above God’s laws, which can lead to spiritual decay.

Theological Themes

• Authority of Scripture: The verse reaffirms the importance of the Scriptures as the ultimate authority. The command to honor parents serves as a critical reminder that genuine worship of God is connected with our conduct towards our families.
• Family Relationships: All commentators underline that God’s design for family is fundamental to societal order. Matthew Henry asserts that honoring parents transcends obedience, embodying respect, love, and care throughout one's life.
• Consequences of Disobedience: The severe warning against disrespecting parents illustrates God’s holiness and the serious consequences of sin. Clarke expounds that such severe consequences are indicative of divine displeasure and societal stability.

Practical Applications

• Honoring Parents: The primary exhortation is to honor one's parents in both action and heart. This honors God and fulfills His commandment. Pastoral application encourages reflection on how congregants can embody this respect in their daily lives.
• Evaluating Traditions: There is an important lesson in evaluating the human traditions we adopt in light of Scripture. Barnes encourages pastors and theologians to challenge congregants to prioritize God's Word over human customs.
• Building Healthy Family Dynamics: The necessity of fostering respectful and loving family dynamics is essential in contemporary applications of this text. It serves as a reminder for leaders to encourage family reconciliation and unity.

Conclusion

In summary, Matthew 15:4 serves as a profound reminder of the seriousness with which we are to regard God's commands, particularly those relating to family. By honoring our parents, we not only fulfill a divine command but also reflect God's character and order within our families and communities. Pastors, students, and theologians alike are invited to deeply engage with this text, drawing from its rich theological heritage to encourage life transformation through obedience to God’s Word.