Ephesians 6 2

Ephesians 6:2 kjv

Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

Ephesians 6:2 nkjv

"Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with promise:

Ephesians 6:2 niv

"Honor your father and mother"?which is the first commandment with a promise?

Ephesians 6:2 esv

"Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise),

Ephesians 6:2 nlt

"Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise:

Ephesians 6 verses

Ephesians 6 2 Meaning

Honoring one's father and mother is the first commandment with a promise attached. This instruction is a foundational principle for familial relationships, emphasizing respect, obedience, and care towards parents. The promise signifies a benefit in this life, often interpreted as well-being, longevity, or a fruitful existence.

Ephesians 6 2 Context

Ephesians 6 follows Paul's theological exposition on God's plan and unity in Christ. Chapter 6 then shifts to practical application for Christian living. Verses 1-9 specifically address the reciprocal responsibilities within household relationships: children and parents, slaves and masters. This verse, within this section, lays out the foundation for a healthy family structure, emphasizing the honor due to parents from their children. This principle is not merely social but deeply theological, reflecting God's order and expectation for His people. Historically, honor was demonstrated through obedience, providing for, and respecting the authority of parents, which was crucial for the social and familial cohesion of the time.

Ephesians 6 2 Word analysis

• τέκνα (tekna): Children. Refers to offspring, progeny. It signifies a position of dependence and natural connection within a family unit.
• ὑπακούετε (hypakouete): Obey. From "hypo" (under) and "akouō" (to hear). It means to listen attentively to, to be obedient to, to yield to the authority of. It implies active submission and willingness to follow instructions.
• γονεῦσιν (goneusin): Parents. In the dative plural case. It refers to father and mother, the source of one's existence. This encompasses both birth parents and potentially adoptive or nurturing figures.
• κύριος (kurios): Lord. Refers to God, the ultimate sovereign authority. The obedience to parents is presented within the overarching framework of obedience to God.
• γάρ (gar): For/Because. A conjunction indicating a reason or explanation for the preceding statement.
• ἐστιν (estin): Is. A form of the verb "eimi" (to be).
• ἀλήθεια (alētheia): Right. This is the first commandment in regard to order or with a condition/promise. The Greek "orthē" which can also mean "fitting" or "proper". It signifies this is a commandment that rightly pertains to the proper ordering of things, not necessarily the only or first chronologically.
• ἐντολή (entolē): Commandment. A mandate, an order given by an authority.
• ἐπαγγελία (epangelia): Promise. A pledge, a commitment of something to be given.
• ἔστιν (estin): Is.

words-group by words-group analysis

• "Children, obey your parents in the Lord": This entire phrase establishes a qualification for the obedience of children. The obedience is not absolute or divorced from faith; it is obedience in the Lord. This means children should obey their parents as long as their parents' commands align with God's will and word. If parents command something contrary to God's law, obedience to God takes precedence (Acts 5:29). The phrase also implies that obeying parents is a way of honoring God.
• "for this is right": The Greek word "orthē" here suggests this is the fitting, proper, or just way for things to be, according to God's established order for humanity.
• "and it is the first commandment with a promise": This highlights the significance and the divine endorsement of this specific instruction. While it is not the first commandment chronologically from Mount Sinai (the first commandment with a promise is for honoring father and mother found in Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16), Paul emphasizes its priority and the associated reward or blessing. It suggests a direct link between honoring parents and experiencing God's favor or temporal well-being.

Ephesians 6 2 Bonus section

The concept of "honoring" parents goes beyond mere obedience; it includes respect, cherishing them, providing for them, and speaking well of them. In the Old Testament context, failure to honor parents could even carry severe penalties. The application of this verse in modern times needs discernment, as family structures and authority dynamics may differ, but the core principle of respectful acknowledgment and care remains. The inclusion of "in the Lord" is crucial for discerning when to obey and when divine allegiance takes precedence, a principle seen throughout scripture.

Ephesians 6 2 Commentary

This verse encapsulates a vital principle for Christian households. Obedience to parents is not merely a suggestion but a divine imperative. This obedience is to be exercised "in the Lord," meaning it should always be within the boundaries of God's law. Disobedience to parents, especially when their commands are godly, is seen as disrespecting the divine order established by God Himself. The promise attached to this commandment suggests that honoring parents brings blessings, potentially including a life of fulfillment and peace. It encourages children to show respect, submission, and provision for their parents, reflecting the character of Christ who Himself was obedient to His earthly parents.

• Children should prioritize godly obedience. If asked to lie or do something sinful, they should respectfully decline, explaining their allegiance to God.
• This principle also calls for respectful communication and consideration towards parents, even in disagreements.
• The blessing associated can be seen in having a harmonious family life, learning discipline that leads to success, and experiencing God’s continued favor.