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.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus refers to the commandment given by Moses in the Old Testament about honoring parents. He is quoting from Exodus 20:12 (the fifth commandment) and Exodus 21:17, which shows the seriousness of disrespecting parents.
Jesus is using this command to expose the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. They accused Jesus’ disciples of breaking human traditions, but in reality, the Pharisees were breaking God’s commands by twisting Scripture to fit their own agenda.
The second part of the verse—about someone being put to death for cursing their parents—might sound harsh, but it reflects how seriously God takes the relationship between parents and children. In the Old Testament, this law was meant to protect the family structure and uphold respect for authority.
Jesus is setting up His argument: while the Pharisees claimed to be devoted to God, they were actually finding loopholes to avoid obeying His direct commandments.
Historical Context
In Jewish society, honoring parents was a fundamental command. It wasn’t just about respect—it included providing for them in their old age. In biblical times, parents depended on their children for support, especially when they were too old to work.
The religious leaders, however, had created a tradition called Corban (which Jesus addresses in Mark 7:11). This practice allowed people to dedicate money or property to God, meaning they could no longer use it for anything else—including helping their parents.
By following this man-made rule, people were able to withhold financial support from their parents while still appearing religious. This is what Jesus was exposing—the Pharisees were enforcing traditions that directly violated God’s command.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several important theological truths:
- God’s commands take priority over human traditions. The Pharisees were guilty of making their own rules more important than God’s word. Jesus makes it clear that Scripture, not tradition, is the ultimate authority.
- Honoring parents is central to godly living. The fifth commandment wasn’t just about respect; it involved real, practical care. Jesus is showing that true faith is demonstrated in obedience, not in empty religious rituals.
- Religious hypocrisy is dangerous. The Pharisees looked holy, but their actions proved otherwise. Jesus’ words warn against going through religious motions while neglecting what really matters.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of a larger argument Jesus is making against the Pharisees. He quotes Scripture directly, reinforcing that His authority comes from God’s word, not human tradition.
The contrast between “Moses said” (God’s command) and what the Pharisees were teaching sets up a clear conflict—man’s tradition versus God’s truth. Jesus is pointing out that the Pharisees were guilty of breaking God’s law while claiming to uphold it.
The mention of the death penalty for dishonoring parents emphasizes the seriousness of the commandment. It shows that honoring parents was not just a cultural expectation but a foundational principle in God’s law.
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.”
- Exodus 21:17 – “Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.”
- Deuteronomy 5:16 – Restates the command to honor parents, with a promise of blessing.
- Matthew 15:3-6 – A parallel passage where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for using Corban to avoid helping their parents.
- Ephesians 6:1-3 – Paul reminds believers that honoring parents is the first commandment with a promise.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges modern believers to examine their priorities. Are we truly following God’s word, or are we allowing human traditions or cultural expectations to take its place?
It also reminds us of the importance of family responsibility. In today’s world, many people neglect their parents, seeing them as a burden rather than a blessing. Jesus’ words call us back to God’s design for families—a structure where respect, love, and provision are honored.
Additionally, this verse is a warning against religious hypocrisy. Many people today claim to follow Christ, but their actions contradict God’s commands. True faith is not about appearing religious—it’s about living in obedience to God’s word.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His desire for strong families. He gave the command to honor parents for our good, creating a structure where love and respect are passed down through generations.
Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees also reveals God’s justice. He does not tolerate false religion or people using His name to justify disobedience. His love is not just about mercy—it is also about truth and righteousness.
Ultimately, God’s commands are given out of love, not restriction. When He calls people to honor their parents, it is because He knows that healthy families lead to a strong society and a deeper relationship with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of honoring His Father. Throughout His life, He submitted to God’s will completely, showing what true obedience looks like (John 6:38).
He also honored His earthly parents. Even while dying on the cross, He made sure that His mother, Mary, was cared for by entrusting her to John (John 19:26-27). This shows that honoring parents is not just an Old Testament law—it is a principle Jesus lived by.
Finally, Jesus fulfilled the law in a way that the Pharisees never could. He did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). Unlike the religious leaders who twisted God’s word, Jesus perfectly obeyed it and provided the way for people to live in true righteousness through Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there any areas in your life where tradition has taken priority over God’s word?
- How can you actively honor your parents, not just in words but in actions?
- What are some modern ways people try to justify not obeying God’s commands while still appearing religious?
- How does this verse challenge you to think about obedience versus outward religion?
- In what ways can you make sure that your faith is based on Scripture rather than human customs?
This passage is a reminder that true worship is about following God’s word, not just appearing religious. Jesus calls people to real obedience, real love, and real faith—not empty traditions.