What does Ephesians 6:3 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:3, which reads, "That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth," is part of a passage in the New Testament of the Christian Bible that underscores the importance of obedience and honor towards one's parents.

This verse is the promise attached to the Fifth Commandment found in Exodus 20:12, which states, "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." In its most literal sense, the verse in Ephesians suggests that there is a blessing associated with honoring one's parents, which includes the prospects of wellness and longevity.

The deeper meaning encapsulates a broader principle of acting with respect and thoughtfulness towards others which contributes to the social stability and individual well-being.

It implies that good relationships, specifically within the family unit, have tangible benefits not just for the social fabric but also for the individual's quality of life.

Historical Context

The Book of Ephesians is an epistle attributed to the Apostle Paul, and it is generally thought to have been written around 60–62 AD, during Paul's imprisonment in Rome.

The early Christian communities, including those in Ephesus, were often made up of both Jewish and Gentile converts; they needed guidance on how to live out their new faith amidst their existing cultures and legal structures.

Ephesians is known for its instructions on various household relationships, which was a common theme in Greco-Roman moral teaching known as 'household codes.' Paul's advice reflects an adaptation of these codes for the Christian community, affirming traditional moral values while infusing them with Christian theology.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, the verse emphasizes God's design for familial structures and respect within those relationships.

By linking the command to honor one's parents with the promise of well-being and longevity, it suggests that God deeply values harmony and respect.

Different theological viewpoints may offer additional insights:

• Reformed Theology: May emphasize the sovereignty of God and the order he establishes in families, noting that obedience has blessings attached to it.
• Catholic Theology: While acknowledging the same principles of family and respect, might use this verse to highlight the importance of tradition and authority.
• Progressive Theology: May focus on the underlying principle of love and respect transcend beyond family to all human relationships, not as legalism but as a guide to social justice and community.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this passage can be applied in numerous ways:

• Family Relationships: Encouraging children to respect and honor their parents, and parents to be worthy of that honor.
• Interpersonal Relationships: Applying the principle of respect to all relationships, fostering healthy communities.
• Workplace Conduct: Respecting those in authority can lead to a harmonious work environment, which can contribute to the success and longevity of a career.

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."
• Proverbs 3:1-2: "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text include:

• "Well" (Greek: "εὖ" - eu): This word is often translated as "well" or "good" and can imply a sense of wholeness or prosperity.
• "Live long" (Greek: "μακροχρόνιος" - makrochronios): This compound word derives from ‘makros’ meaning "long" and ‘chronos’ meaning "time." It carries the meaning of long-lasting or enduring through time.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religions, honoring one's parents was considered a foundational moral ethic.

Confucianism, for example, places a heavy emphasis on filial piety.

The command to honor one's parents found in Judeo-Christian Scripture parallels such concepts, though the biblical perspective ties the promise of well-being and longevity to a monotheistic faith in the God of Israel.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse expresses a theological promise, modern scientific research has also recognized the potential health benefits of having strong, positive relationships with family, including parents.

Psychological health and stress levels are influenced by family dynamics, and studies have indicated that healthy family relationships can correlate to better health and increased lifespan.

commentaries

Commentary on Ephesians 6:3 varies:

• John Calvin emphasizes the rule of obedience to parents, seeing it as a necessary foundation for societal well-being.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary suggests a providential care for those who obey this commandment, proposing that it's not just a mere natural consequence, but a special blessing from God.
• The Pulpit Commentary suggests the verse offers a "motive" for godly living in the form of a promise, and although it entails natural benefits, it’s more profoundly a spiritual promise for those in Christ.