The Fifth Commandment

Exodus 20:12 -- Honor your father and your mother: that your days may
be long upon the land which the LORD your God gives you.

I. Exposition

A.  The key word is “honor” = to regard as heavy
    
       B.  How Important is this Commandment?   Deut. 21:18-21

C.  The Commandment extends to both Father & Mother
    
D.  What is the Promise?  Deut. 5:16;  Eph.  6:1-3

E.  The Extent of the Obedience Required
    
F.  The Duration of this Obedience.

II. Application of this Commandment

A.  To Children

1. Follow the example of Christ – Luke 2:51

2. Don't trust in your own wisdom

3. Watch your words & gestures

4. Watch your attitude.

   B. To Parents (paraphrase of Thomas Watson on the 5th Commandment)

Every parent has God-given obligations to His child.

1. To bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord – Eph. 6:4
2. Keep up your parental authority
3. Provide for your children when they are young
4. Make sure they are well-educated
5. Watch the way you speak to them
6. NEVER strike them in anger.
7. Pray for your children.
8. Encourage the good you see in them.
9. Act lovingly toward your children
10. Set a good example.

III. The Work of Christ and this Commandment