What does Ephesians 6:1 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:1, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right," stands as a direct and straightforward commandment from the Apostle Paul to children within the Christian community. Literally, the verse tells children that they should obey their parents.

The phrase "in the Lord" implies that this obedience is part of their duty as Christians and is anchored in their relationship with God.

The latter part, "for this is right," appeals to a sense of moral and ethical correctness, suggesting that obeying one's parents is inherently the proper thing to do.

Historical Context

Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians is a letter written to the church of Ephesus, a prominent city in ancient Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), around A.D. 60-62.

During this period, the Roman Empire was the ruling authority, and the family structure was central to both Roman and Jewish societies.

Children were expected to show respect and obedience to their parents, a sentiment reflected in many cultures of the time.

Paul integrates this societal norm within the Christian doctrine, emphasizing that such respect and obedience are not just cultural expectations but also spiritual obligations.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives may interpret this verse in varying ways.

For example, a traditional or conservative viewpoint might emphasize the authority of parents and the duty of children to submit to that authority as a reflection of their obedience to God.

A more liberal interpretation might focus on the mutuality of relationships within the Christian family, with obedience grounded in love and respect rather than authoritarian demands.

Additionally, some theologians might delve into the idea that "in the Lord" suggests a limitation to this command, indicating that obedience is required only when parental requests are consistent with Christian principles.

Practical Applications

In today's context, Ephesians 6:1 can be applied to family life in several ways.

It encourages children to value and respect their parents’ guidance and wisdom.

It also underlines the importance of teaching children to discern right from wrong and encourages them to make decisions that are pleasing to God.

For parents, it can be a reminder to provide loving, fair, and godly instructions to their children, establishing a household that encourages both obedience and growth in faith.

Cross-References

• Colossians 3:20 - "Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord."
• Exodus 20:12 - "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee."
• Proverbs 1:8 - "My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:"

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of Ephesians 6:1 include "τέκνα" (tekna), meaning children or offspring; "ὑπακούετε" (hypakouete), meaning to obey or to be attentive to; "γονεῦσιν" (goneusin), meaning parents; and "ἐν Κυρίῳ" (en Kyriō), translated as "in the Lord." The imperative form of "obey" indicates a command, and the term "in the Lord" signifies the Christian framework within which this obedience should occur.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, many cultures emphasized the importance of filial piety and obedience to one's parents.

For example, in Confucianism, respect for elders is paramount.

Similarly, many ancient Near Eastern cultures had strict norms regarding familial hierarchy and respect.

The Jewish tradition, out of which Christianity emerged, also emphasized the importance of honoring one's parents, as seen in the Ten Commandments.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology recognizes the importance of parent-child relationships and the impacts these relationships have on the development of the child.

While the idea of "obeying" might seem outdated in contemporary liberal societies, psychologists might connect the underlying principle of respect and healthy interactions between parents and children to positive developmental outcomes.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Ephesians 6:1.

Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the importance of the fifth commandment and the suitability of children obeying their parents as a divine ordinance.

John Calvin's Commentary notes the limitation placed by "in the Lord," meaning that parental authority is not absolute if it goes against God's commandments.

Contemporary scholars often look at this verse in the context of the whole of Ephesians, noting the overall messages of unity and living out one's faith in practical ways.

Critics of authoritarian interpretations might stress the potential for abuse if obedience is enforced without an emphasis on love, mutuality, and respect.