Obedience to Parents
Obedience to parents is a fundamental biblical principle that reflects the divine order established by God. Throughout the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments, honoring and obeying one’s parents is emphasized as a commandment with great blessings. This principle is deeply woven into the fabric of Christian living, and it serves as a reflection of our obedience to God Himself. In this article, we will explore the importance of obedience to parents, examine relevant scriptures, and discuss practical ways to live out this command in our daily lives.
The Command to Obey Parents
The foundation of obedience to parents is laid out clearly in the Ten Commandments:
Exodus 20:12 (NASB) – “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be prolonged on the land which the Lord your God gives you.”
This commandment is unique because it is the first with a promise attached to it—long life and prosperity. Honoring one’s parents is not merely about obedience in childhood but extends into adulthood as a lifelong principle of respect, care, and reverence.
The Apostle Paul reaffirms this commandment in the New Testament:
Ephesians 6:1-3 (NASB) – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), so that it may turn out well for you, and that you may live long on the earth.”
Paul emphasizes that obeying parents is not just a social expectation but a moral and spiritual obligation that pleases God and leads to a blessed life.
Biblical Examples of Obedience and Disobedience
Jesus Christ: The Perfect Example of Obedience
One of the greatest examples of obedience to parents is seen in the life of Jesus Christ. Even as the Son of God, Jesus submitted to His earthly parents.
Luke 2:51 (NASB) – “And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He continued to be subject to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart.”
Despite His divine nature and mission, Jesus humbled Himself and obeyed His earthly parents, setting a perfect example for all children.
The Rechabites: A Model of Generational Obedience
In Jeremiah 35, we find the story of the Rechabites, a group of people who strictly adhered to the commands of their forefather Jonadab.
Jeremiah 35:18-19 (NASB) – “Then Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites, ‘This is what the Lord of armies, the God of Israel says: “Because you have obeyed the command of your father Jonadab, kept all his commands, and done according to all that he commanded you; therefore, this is what the Lord of armies, the God of Israel says: ‘Jonadab the son of Rechab will not lack a man to stand before Me always.’’’”
The Rechabites’ obedience was so exemplary that God used them as a lesson to the Israelites, demonstrating the power of honoring one’s ancestors.
The Tragic End of Eli’s Sons
Conversely, the consequences of disobedience are vividly portrayed in the lives of Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas.
1 Samuel 2:25 (NASB) – “If one person sins against another, God will mediate for him; but if a person sins against the Lord, who can intercede for him? But they would not listen to the voice of their father, for the Lord desired to put them to death.”
Their disregard for their father’s warnings led to their downfall and death, showing that disobedience to parents can bring severe consequences.
The Role of Parents in Teaching Obedience
While the Bible commands children to obey their parents, it also gives responsibilities to parents in guiding their children in righteousness.
Proverbs 22:6 (NASB) – “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he grows older he will not abandon it.”
Parents are called to discipline and instruct their children in the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4 (NASB) – “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
This means that obedience is best cultivated in a home where parents lead with love, wisdom, and godly principles.
Practical Applications of Obedience to Parents
- Listening and Responding with Respect – Children and young adults should not only hear their parents but respond with a respectful attitude.Proverbs 1:8-9 (NASB) – “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not ignore your mother’s teaching; for they are a graceful wreath for your head and necklaces for your neck.”
- Serving and Helping Parents – Obedience includes actively serving parents in their needs, especially as they grow older.1 Timothy 5:4 (NASB) – “But if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice godliness in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.”
- Obeying with a Willing Heart – True obedience is not reluctant but comes from a willing heart that seeks to please God.Colossians 3:20 (NASB) – “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.”
- Following Biblical Wisdom Over Worldly Influence – In a world that often encourages rebellion, obedience to parents aligns with godly wisdom.Proverbs 13:1 (NASB) – “A wise son accepts his father’s discipline, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.”
When Obedience to Parents Conflicts with God’s Command
While the Bible commands obedience to parents, it does not advocate blind obedience when it contradicts God’s will. Our ultimate obedience belongs to God.
Acts 5:29 (NASB) – “But Peter and the apostles answered, ‘We must obey God rather than men.’”
If parents instruct their children to sin or disobey God’s commands, children must prioritize obedience to the Lord while maintaining respect and love for their parents.
Conclusion
Obedience to parents is a vital principle that brings blessings, fosters godly character, and aligns with divine order. The Bible consistently teaches that honoring and obeying parents is a reflection of our relationship with God. By looking at the examples of Jesus, the Rechabites, and the consequences of disobedience, we learn that obedience leads to life and favor while rebellion results in hardship. Parents also have a responsibility to guide their children in righteousness. Ultimately, obedience to parents is an act of worship that glorifies God and establishes a strong foundation for a fruitful life.