◄ What Does Ephesians 6:1 Mean? ►

The focus of the previous chapter is to be filled with the Spirit of God, and one result of this spiritual 'filling' is the manifestation of a submissive spirit, godly love, and a true respect for one another.

Not only are wives to be submissive to their husbands and men are to love their spouses as Christ loved the Church, but these godly characteristics should be displayed in their children's behaviour, and so we read: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right."

To obey their parents 'in the Lord' means that children should carry out instructions they receive from their parents, as if it were God Himself Who was directing them. But it also implies that parental instructions should be in line with the will of God. Parents are responsible for instructing their children in line with God's will, while children are expected to obey their parents in the Lord, for this is right.

It is the duty of all children to honour and obey their parents in the Lord, for this is not only right and proper, but it is also God's will. However, godly input from godly parents is crucial for godly boys and girls. Children are to be brought up in the fear and nurture of the Lord by parents who honour the Lord, reverence one another, and train up their children in the way they should go.

The wise and correct rearing of children is a thread that weaves its way throughout the entire Word of God. Parents are older, wiser, and have gained beneficial life-experiences which can be passed on to the younger generation, while children need to receive godly discipline if they are to honour their parents, be obedient to them, and do what is right in the eyes of the Lord.

Parents need to act responsibly towards their children, and those who walk in spirit, truth, virtue, and love are those who will be honoured by their own children. Those who bring their sons and daughters up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, will discover themselves to be praised by their children.

The parent-child relationship is vital for the whole of humanity if the generations that follow are to survive in a world that is saturated in sin and lies in the power of the evil one. The structure of the family and the conduct of each member is clearly outlined in Scripture, and those that embrace its instructions will live lives that honour the Lord and provide a godly witness to others.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the family unit which was ordained by You from the beginning. Help me to be a good parent and to instruct those in my care wisely. Help me also to be child-like in my relationship with others and to respect and honour them, as unto the Lord. This I ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.