Honoring parents is a commandment that the Bible emphasizes, but it also speaks about the consequences of dishonoring them. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture teaches about respecting our parents and the blessings that come with obedience to this command.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Dishonest People
What Does The Bible Say About Dishonor Parents
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring parents as a commandment from God. By honoring our parents, we demonstrate our respect, gratitude, and obedience to them. It is a fundamental way to show love and appreciation for the role they play in our lives. Honoring parents also brings blessings, as God promises a long and fruitful life for those who obey this commandment.
As children, it is our responsibility to listen to and obey our parents’ guidance and instructions. Even as we grow older, we should continue to honor them by showing them respect and care. This verse reminds us to value and cherish our parents, recognizing the significant impact they have on our lives.
Proverbs 23:22
“Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting our parents, particularly as they age. It reminds us that our parents have given us life and deserve our honor and care. As they grow older, they may need our support and assistance, and it is our responsibility to show them love and respect.
Despising or neglecting our aging parents goes against God’s command to honor them. Instead, we should value their wisdom and seek to learn from their experiences. This verse serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate and honor our parents, even when they may face physical or emotional challenges in old age.
Leviticus 19:3
“Each of you must respect your mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the Lord your God.”
This verse highlights the dual importance of respecting parents and observing God’s commandments. It intertwines honoring parents with the observance of the Sabbath, recognizing that both are essential aspects of a faithful life. God desires not only our reverence for Him but also our respect and obedience towards our parents.
Respect for parents involves recognizing their authority and following their guidance. This verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of honoring parents and the practice of one’s faith. By obeying this commandment, we demonstrate our commitment to God and our recognition of the role parents play in our spiritual upbringing.
Proverbs 1:8-9
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
In this verse, the writer urges children to heed their parents’ instructions and teachings. They are compared to a garland and a chain, symbolizing honor, beauty, and a source of pride. Listening and obeying parents’ teachings contribute to our growth, character, and success in life.
The wisdom our parents impart to us is invaluable. Their guidance is meant to shape our moral compass, instill discipline, and provide practical advice. By listening to our parents, we open ourselves up to valuable life lessons that can guide us towards making wise decisions and living a fulfilling life.
Ephesians 6:1-3
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul addresses children, urging them to obey their parents as an act of righteousness before God. He also highlights the promise associated with honoring parents: a life that goes well and longevity.
Obeying parents is not only a moral duty but also an act of faith. It demonstrates our trust in God’s wisdom and order. When we honor and obey our parents, we position ourselves to receive blessings and guidance from God. Our obedience sets the foundation for a life marked by God’s favor and longevity.
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
This verse echoes the message of obedience to children. As believers, our obedience to our parents is an act of pleasing God. It is through this act that we acknowledge God’s authority and show our reverence for Him.
Obeying parents is not limited to specific areas but encompasses all aspects of life. By obeying our parents, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the joy and satisfaction of living in harmony with His plan for us.
Proverbs 15:20
“A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.”
This proverb contrasts the impact of a wise and foolish child on their parents. A wise child who lives according to godly wisdom and values brings joy and delight to their father. On the other hand, a foolish person who disregards their mother’s guidance and wisdom shows disrespect and contempt.
The choices we make and the way we treat our parents reflect our character and understanding. By valuing our parents’ wisdom and honor, we bring joy to them and cultivate healthy relationships built on love and respect.
Mark 7:10
“For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’
In this verse, Jesus affirms the commandment to honor parents by quoting the words of Moses. He emphasizes the seriousness of dishonoring parents and the severe consequences associated with cursing them.
Jesus’ words serve as a reminder that dishonoring or cursing our parents is not taken lightly by God. It is a sin that carries severe consequences. Instead, as believers, we are called to honor and respect our parents, reflecting God’s love and grace towards us.
1 Timothy 5:4
“But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of caring for aging parents and grandparents. He instructs children and grandchildren to prioritize their family responsibilities and exemplify their faith by fulfilling this duty.
As believers, it is not enough to merely profess our faith; we are called to put our beliefs into action. One of the ways we can manifest our faith is by loving and caring for our aging family members. This act of love and support pleases God and reflects His compassionate nature.
Proverbs 20:20
“If someone curses their father or mother, their lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.”
This proverb highlights the consequences of cursing or disrespecting parents. It compares one’s life to a lamp that is suddenly extinguished, leaving them in darkness and turmoil.
Our words and actions towards our parents have significant implications, both in this life and beyond. Cursing or despising our parents not only damages our relationship with them but also brings darkness and negativity into our own lives. This verse serves as a sobering reminder to treat our parents with kindness, respect, and honor.
Proverbs 19:26
“Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.”
This proverb condemns the actions of someone who mistreats their parents, highlighting the shame and disgrace that accompanies such behavior.
Our treatment of parents reflects our character and values. When we disregard or mistreat our parents, we not only bring dishonor to ourselves but also tarnish our family’s reputation. This verse reminds us of the importance of treating our parents with love, respect, and integrity.
Matthew 15:4
“For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’
In this verse, Jesus reiterates the commandment to honor parents and emphasizes the severe consequences associated with cursing them. He reaffirms the divine origin of this commandment by attributing it to God Himself.
By reinforcing the importance of honoring parents, Jesus shows the significance of this commandment in our lives. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in obedience to this commandment, reflecting the love, respect, and honor that God desires us to show towards our parents.
Deuteronomy 5:16
“Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
In this verse, the commandment to honor parents is reiterated, with the promise of a long and prosperous life as a reward for obedience.
Honoring parents is not merely a cultural or societal expectation but a divine commandment. It is a reflection of our love for God and our understanding of His wisdom in establishing family structures. By honoring our parents, we position ourselves to receive the blessings and goodness that God desires for us.
Romans 13:7
“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul encourages believers to give others the respect and honor they are due. This principle applies not only to authorities but also to our parents.
As children, we owe our parents respect and honor for the role they play in our lives. By honoring our parents, we fulfill our obligation to them and demonstrate our gratitude for the sacrifices they have made. This verse encourages us to uphold this principle in all our relationships, recognizing the value of respect and honor.
1 Peter 2:17
“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
In this verse, Peter instructs believers to show proper respect to everyone, including those in positions of authority. This includes honoring and respecting parents.
Honoring parents is not an isolated commandment but extends to our broader interactions with others. By demonstrating respect and honor towards our parents, we cultivate a culture of honor and love within the family and the wider community. This verse encourages believers to embody these values in their everyday lives.
Proverbs 6:20
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”
In this verse, the writer implores the reader to value and heed their father’s commands and their mother’s teachings. The wisdom and guidance received from parents should not be overlooked or disregarded.
Parents are entrusted with teaching and molding their children, imparting values, and providing direction. Their instructions and teachings should be treasured and followed, as they serve as valuable compasses for navigating life’s challenges and making wise choices.
Matthew 19:19
“Honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.”
In this verse, Jesus summarizes the two greatest commandments: to honor parents and to love one’s neighbor. These commandments are intrinsically linked, emphasizing the interconnectedness of our relationships.
Honoring parents is not an isolated act but part of a broader call to love and honor those around us. By treating our parents with honor, we exemplify the love and respect we are called to show towards others. This verse encapsulates the essence of living a life marked by love and obedience to God’s commandments.
Deuteronomy 21:18-21
“If someone has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. They shall say to the elders, ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.’ Then all the men of his town are to stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.”
In this passage from Deuteronomy, the consequences of extreme disobedience and rebellion towards parents are outlined. If a son consistently disobeys and refuses to listen to his parents’ discipline, it becomes a matter to be dealt with by the community.
This passage serves as a severe warning against extreme disobedience towards parents and highlights the importance of receiving and heeding parental guidance and discipline. While this consequence is extreme, it underscores the seriousness of honoring and obeying parents in a healthy and respectful manner.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
In this verse, Paul encourages believers to be devoted to one another in love and to honor others above themselves. This includes showing honor and respect towards parents and elders.
Our love for others is demonstrated through acts of honor and respect. By valuing and honoring our parents, we exemplify Christ’s love and sacrifice, fostering healthy relationships built on mutual respect and care.
Proverbs 30:17
“The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures.”
This proverb uses vivid imagery to describe the dire fate of those who mock or scorn their parents. It serves as a warning against disrespect and dishonor towards parents.
Our words and actions have consequences, and disrespecting parents can lead to severe repercussions. This verse highlights the importance of treating our parents with reverence and dignity, recognizing the significant role they play in our lives.
Ephesians 6:2
“Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise.”
In this verse, Paul reaffirms the commandment to honor parents and highlights it as the first commandment with a promise. By obeying this commandment, we position ourselves to receive the blessings and promises associated with honoring parents.
Honoring parents is not merely a moral duty but a pathway to experiencing God’s goodness and blessings in our lives. This verse reminds us that honoring parents brings about God’s favor and opens the door to His promises.
Proverbs 23:22-25
“Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy the truth and do not sell it— wisdom, instruction, and insight as well. The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!”
In this passage, the writer emphasizes the value and importance of listening to parents throughout life. They are sources of wisdom, instruction, and insight, and their joy is found in the righteousness and wisdom of their children.
By valuing our parents’ wisdom and guidance, we honor them and bring them joy. Listening and learning from our parents fosters a deeper appreciation for the wisdom they impart and allows us to navigate life with discernment and understanding.
Regardless of the specific circumstances or difficulties we may face in our relationship with our parents, the Bible remains clear in its teaching on honoring and respecting them. These verses highlight the importance of honoring parents and the blessings that come with obedience to this commandment. Honoring parents is not contingent on their perfection or our agreement with their choices. It is a reflection of our love for God and our recognition of the role parents play in our lives. As believers, we are called to live out these principles, seeking to honor and respect our parents by listening to their counsel, obeying their guidance, and displaying genuine love and appreciation for them in thought, word, and deed.