What does Ephesians 6:2 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:2, "Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)" is a direct quote from the Ten Commandments found in the Old Testament (Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16).

The Apostle Paul, writing to the Ephesian church, reiterates this commandment to emphasize the importance of respecting and obeying one's parents.

Paul acknowledges that this is the first of the commandments that comes with an explicit promise of well-being and longevity in the land given by God to the Israelites, suggesting a general principle of the blessings following obedience.

This verse promotes the value of family unity and personal conduct within the Christian moral framework, connecting to both spiritual and pragmatic aspects of life.

Historical Context

This verse is situated in the New Testament letter to the Ephesians, believed to have been penned by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 62 while he was in prison in Rome.

Ephesians is a circular letter meant for several churches in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey).

The traditional family structure during this time was governed by the Roman law of "patria potestas," wherein the male head of the household had a significant level of control over family affairs.

Paul's instructions represent a Christian adaptation of existing social norms by reinforcing family values shared by the Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures but placing them in a distinctly Christian context.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Ephesians 6:2 resonates across various Christian traditions, as honoring one's parents is seen as a timeless and cross-cultural mandate.

From a Protestant perspective, it signifies the moral law continuing into the New Testament dispensation.

Furthermore, it represents the understanding that the moral aspects of the Mosaic Law are still applicable to Christian ethics.

Catholic and Orthodox interpretations additionally emphasize the sacramental nature of family life, seeing the honoring of parents as part of the broader veneration of authority bestowed by God.

Some theologians discuss how this respect for parents is a reflection of the reverence due to God as the ultimate Father.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, Ephesians 6:2 encourages individuals of all ages to respect and value their parents through actions and attitudes.

This can manifest as obedience in childhood, consideration and care in adulthood, and honoring their memory after they pass.

The principle extends to respecting other forms of authority and contributes to the overall health and stability of society.

It can influence decision-making processes that involve family members and affect the way Christians engage in familial relationships and responsibilities.

Cross-References

• 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."
• 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."
• Matthew 15:4 - "For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death."
• Proverbs 1:8 - "My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother."
• Colossians 3:20 - "Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase "Honour thy father and mother" uses the word "τίμα" (tima), meaning to honor, value, or esteem.

This implies a broader range of respect than just obedience and encompasses an acknowledgment of authority and a sense of reverence.

The aspect of "promise" is denoted by "ἐπαγγελία" (epangelia), indicating an announcement or assurance given for the future, hence the emphasis on the outcomes associated with obedience to this command.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing to other ancient myths and religions, honoring one's parents is not unique to Judeo-Christian traditions.

Ancient Greek and Roman societies placed high importance on filial piety, with gods and heroes often portrayed as punishing or favoring individuals based on how they treated their parents.

However, the Judeo-Christian commandment is distinctive in its divine origin and connection to a theological framework with ethical and eschatological implications, transcending mere cultural practice.

Scientific Perspectives

While Ephesians 6:2 is not a scientific text, scientific research supports the notion that strong family bonds and respect for parents can have positive outcomes on mental health and social stability.

Studies in psychology and sociology have shown that good parent-child relationships can result in better emotional resilience and lower instances of social problems like crime and substance abuse.

The concept of honoring one's parents can be seen as socially and psychologically beneficial, aligning in some ways with modern scientific understandings of human behavior and social dynamics.

commentaries

Various biblical commentators have offered insights on Ephesians 6:2.

Matthew Henry's commentary underscores the universal duty of filial piety regardless of parents’ faults.

John Calvin's commentary emphasizes the promise of well-being associated with the commandment as a general principle, not as a guarantee of earthly rewards.

Contemporary scholars like N.T.

Wright often describe this as part of living out one's new identity in Christ, reflecting the gospel's impact on social and family structures.

They agree that while the letter to the Ephesians addresses a first-century audience, its principles are timeless and carry significant weight in understanding Christian responsibilities toward family.