JEFF TURNER

Ephesians 6:1 tells children to obey their parents. It is a command that is clear and straightforward for as long as a person is growing up in the home. But the question of what that relationship looks like once a child becomes an adult is worth thinking through, because the Bible does not leave it unanswered. The shift is from obedience, which has to do with action, to honour, which has to do with attitude.

Obedience is what a child gives while under the guidance and authority of their parents in the home. Once that season is over and a person is living as an adult, the responsibility changes but it does not disappear.

The Old Testament command to honour your father and mother remains in place for life. Jesus himself pointed out how some adults in his day found clever ways to avoid caring for their aging parents, declaring their resources dedicated to the temple so they could sidestep their family duties. God takes that kind of dishonour seriously, and the promise of blessing tied to honouring parents does not expire when a person grows up.

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.

Ephesians 6:2-3