Q64. What does the fifth commandment require?
The fifth commandment requires us to honor and do our duty toward everyone according to their place—whether they are above us, under our care, or equal to us.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Ephesians 5:21–22
“Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.”
Ephesians 6:1, 5
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. … Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;”
Romans 13:1
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.”
Ephesians 6:9
“And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.”
Romans 12:10
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does the fifth commandment require?
- 2
The answer mentions people "above us, under our care, or equal to us." Who are some people in each of those categories for you?
- 3
Why is it important to show honor even to people who are your equals, like friends or classmates?
Illustration
At school, you have teachers above you, younger kids you might help, and classmates who are your peers. The fifth commandment covers all three. It requires you to respect those in authority, be kind to those under your care, and treat your equals with honor.
Application
Because God has placed people around you in different roles, ask him to show you one person in each category you can honor this week: a parent or teacher, a younger sibling or neighbor kid, and a friend.