EVERYONE MUST HONOR THEIR FATHER AND MOTHER

EVERYONE MUST HONOR THEIR FATHER AND MOTHER

 

A Biblical teaching for children, youth, and parents
By the grace of God


Introduction

Whether you’re a child, a teenager, an adult, or even a grandparent — if your parents are still alive, God’s Word commands you to honor them. Honoring your parents isn’t optional. It’s a command from God, and it carries with it both blessings and consequences.


1. God’s Clear Command to Honor Parents

Leviticus 19:3 (ESV)
“Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father, and you shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.”

In this verse, the word “revere” or “fear” means to treat with utmost respect and honor. Just as we give deep reverence to God, we are also called to give high regard to our parents.

This reverence involves:

  • Obedience (Ephesians 6:1)

  • Listening (Proverbs 1:8)

  • Not speaking harshly or rudely (Exodus 21:17)

  • Caring for them in old age (1 Timothy 5:4, 8)

Honoring parents is so important that God linked it directly to Sabbath observance — both being signs of covenant faithfulness to Him.


2. Honoring Parents Is Not Just for Children

Many people think this command only applies to young children. But the Bible never sets an age limit on this instruction. As long as your parents are alive, you are still their child — no matter how old you are.

Proverbs 23:22 (ESV)
“Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”

This is a lifelong responsibility. Whether you are 20, 40, or 70, if your parent is still alive, this verse still applies to you.


3. Dishonoring Parents Brings Serious Consequences

God does not take lightly the sin of dishonoring parents. The Bible records serious consequences for such behavior — both in the Old Testament and reaffirmed in the New.


A. Loss of Vision and Direction

Proverbs 30:17 (ESV)
“The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures.”

This vivid picture represents someone who loses their moral and spiritual vision — they walk in darkness and confusion. Dishonoring your parents can lead to a life without clarity, purpose, or lasting peace.


B. Spiritual and Physical Death

Proverbs 20:20 (ESV)
“If one curses his father or his mother, his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.”

In the Bible, a lamp symbolizes life and guidance (see Job 21:17). When your lamp is extinguished, it can mean death, judgment, or the removal of God’s favor.

Also note:

Exodus 21:17 (ESV)
“Whoever curses his father or his mother shall be put to death.”

While the death penalty isn’t practiced under the New Covenant, this verse shows how serious God views dishonor toward parents.


4. Honoring Parents Brings Blessing and Long Life

Ephesians 6:1–3 (ESV)
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ (this is the first commandment with a promise), that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”

This is a direct quote from Exodus 20:12, one of the Ten Commandments. It comes with a specific promise: well-being and long life.


5. What Does It Mean to Honor Parents Practically?

  • Obey when you’re under their care.

  • Listen to their wisdom, even as an adult.

  • Pray for them regularly.

  • Care for them in old age (Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for neglecting this — Mark 7:9–13).

  • Forgive them if they’ve hurt you — holding bitterness is still dishonor.

  • Reconcile with them if there’s conflict.


6. There Are No Excuses

Some say, “But my parent was abusive,” or “My mother abandoned me.” While it’s true that some parents fail in their responsibilities, the command to honor does not mean approving sin or putting yourself in danger.

However, even in difficult situations, forgiveness, prayer, and honor in attitude are still biblical. Honor doesn’t always mean agreement — it means respect, humility, and letting God be the judge.


Conclusion: Examine Yourself

  • Have you honored your father and mother?

  • Do you still pray for them?

  • Is there any broken relationship that needs mending?

  • Are you modeling this for your children?

If not, it’s not too late. Begin today. Humble yourself, reach out, and honor them as unto the Lord.


Need Help Knowing Jesus?

If you have never received Jesus Christ into your life as Lord and Savior, or if you want to return to Him, we are here to help. Salvation is free — and it’s the foundation for a life of blessing and obedience.

📲 Join our free daily Bible teachings on WhatsApp:
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May the Lord bless you, guide you, and give you the grace to honor your parents as unto Him.
“Honor your father and mother” — that it may go well with you.


 

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