Ephesians 6:1 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”
Extended Explanation
This verse is a clear instruction given to children about their role within the family. It commands children to obey their parents, but with an important qualifier: “in the Lord.” This means that obedience is not blind or absolute but is done as part of their faith in God. A child’s obedience to their parents should align with God’s will.
The phrase “for this is right” shows that this is not just a suggestion but a moral truth that reflects God’s design for families. When children obey their parents, they are following God’s order for how families should function. The obedience commanded here is not just about discipline; it teaches respect, submission, and honor, which are foundational for a godly life.
At the same time, this verse is not telling children to obey parents if they demand something that contradicts God’s word. The phrase “in the Lord” reminds us that all human authority is under God’s authority.
Historical Context
During biblical times, family structure was deeply important in both Jewish and Roman cultures. In Jewish tradition, the command to honor and obey parents was rooted in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16). Obeying one’s parents was not just a household rule but a command from God.
In the Roman world, fathers (paterfamilias) had absolute authority over their children. However, Paul’s instruction brings a different perspective: obedience should be done “in the Lord,” meaning that children are ultimately accountable to God, not just their earthly fathers.
In contrast to the harsh, authoritarian structure of Roman families, Paul’s teaching encourages a godly, loving family dynamic where children obey parents, and parents lead their children according to God’s ways (Ephesians 6:4).
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that obedience to parents is not just a social rule but part of God’s moral order. It reflects the structure God designed for families, where children learn submission and discipline, which later helps them obey God.
It also highlights the importance of godly parenting. If children are to obey “in the Lord,” then parents must lead their children in a way that honors God. Parents have a responsibility to teach and guide their children in righteousness, not just demand obedience for their own sake.
Additionally, this verse reminds us that obedience to authority is a broader Christian principle. Just as children are called to obey their parents, all believers are called to submit to God’s authority in their lives (James 4:7, Hebrews 13:17).
Literary Analysis
Ephesians 6:1 is a direct imperative, meaning it is a command. Paul is not offering a suggestion but stating a clear expectation. The verse is short, straightforward, and structured to emphasize both the action (“obey”) and the motivation (“in the Lord, for this is right”).
The phrase “for this is right” acts as a justification for the command, showing that obedience to parents is a moral principle that aligns with God’s righteousness.
This verse is part of a larger section in Ephesians 5:22–6:9, where Paul outlines the roles within the Christian household: husbands and wives (5:22-33), parents and children (6:1-4), and masters and slaves (6:5-9). The emphasis in this passage is on living out faith in daily relationships.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 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.”
- Deuteronomy 5:16 – Restates the command to honor parents as part of God’s covenant.
- Colossians 3:20 – “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
- 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.”
- Proverbs 6:20 – Encourages children to keep their parents’ commands as a source of wisdom.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
In today’s world, many children struggle with authority, and parental respect is often diminished in society. However, God’s command remains unchanged. Children should obey their parents as an act of faithfulness to God, as long as they are not asked to sin.
This verse also reminds Christian parents that they must lead their children in a way that makes it easier for them to obey. Parents should not provoke their children to anger or discourage them (Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:21), but rather teach them with love, patience, and godly wisdom.
For adults, this verse also carries the principle of honoring parents even beyond childhood. While obedience may no longer apply in the same way, respect, care, and honor should continue throughout life.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God, as our Heavenly Father, desires order, love, and respect in families. His commands are not burdensome but are meant for our good. When He instructs children to obey their parents, it is because obedience fosters discipline, respect, and spiritual growth.
God’s love is reflected in the family structure. He gives parents the responsibility to nurture and guide their children, just as He guides us as His children (Hebrews 12:6). A loving family models God’s love to the world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself modeled obedience to earthly parents. In Luke 2:51, it says, “Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them.” Even though He was the Son of God, Jesus submitted to His earthly parents as an example of humility and obedience.
More importantly, Jesus showed perfect obedience to God the Father. Philippians 2:8 says, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” His obedience was not just about submitting to earthly authorities but ultimately obeying God’s will for our salvation.
By obeying our parents “in the Lord,” we reflect Christ’s obedience to His Father and grow in Christlikeness.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does your attitude toward your parents reflect your obedience to God?
- In what ways can you honor your parents, even if you are an adult?
- Why do you think God emphasizes obedience in the family structure?
- How does this verse challenge today’s cultural views on authority and respect?
- What can parents do to make it easier for their children to obey “in the Lord”?
Ephesians 6:1 is more than just a command for children; it is a blueprint for godly relationships within the family. When children obey their parents in a way that honors God, they learn obedience to Him, which leads to a life of blessing and wisdom.