Q66. What reason is given for the fifth commandment?
The reason is a promise: God promises long life and blessing (as far as it serves his glory and their good) to all who keep this commandment.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Deuteronomy 5:16
“Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”
Ephesians 6:2–3
“Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What promise comes with the fifth commandment?
- 2
Why do you think this is the first commandment that comes with a promise attached?
- 3
Does this promise mean that bad things will never happen to people who honor their parents?
Illustration
When you follow the house rules, life at home goes better. There is less conflict and more peace. God attached a promise to this commandment because honoring authority is the foundation of an ordered life. The promise points to God's general pattern of blessing, not a magic guarantee.
Application
Because God blesses those who honor authority, ask him to help you be someone who respects the people he has placed over you. Thank God that even when you fail at this, Christ fulfilled this commandment perfectly on your behalf.