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.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus references two commands from the Old Testament to highlight the Pharisees’ hypocrisy. The first is the command to honor one’s parents, a cornerstone of God’s law (Exodus 20:12). The second is a serious warning about cursing parents, carrying the penalty of death (Exodus 21:17).
Jesus uses these commands to show how the Pharisees had distorted God’s law with their traditions. Instead of honoring parents, they justified neglecting them under the guise of religious devotion. By pointing to these clear and serious commandments, Jesus exposes how the Pharisees were prioritizing their traditions over God’s direct instructions.
This verse emphasizes the importance God places on family relationships and the high standard He sets for how children are to treat their parents.
Historical Context
The command to honor parents was foundational in Jewish society and was tied to God’s covenant with Israel. It symbolized respect for authority, beginning within the family unit, and reflected a broader obedience to God.
In Jewish culture, honoring parents included providing for them in their old age. However, the Pharisees had introduced a loophole through a practice called “Corban,” where someone could dedicate resources to God and thereby avoid using them to support their parents. Jesus rebukes this practice because it violated the spirit of the law, which prioritized love and care for others.
The penalty for cursing parents, while extreme by modern standards, reflects how seriously God viewed family relationships in ancient Israel. It served as a deterrent against disrespect and rebellion, which could destabilize the family and, by extension, the community.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes the authority of God’s Word and His commands. Jesus reminds His listeners that obedience to God’s law cannot be replaced by human traditions or rationalizations. Honoring parents is not merely a social expectation but a divine command with spiritual significance.
It also underscores God’s desire for relationships built on respect and care. The family is a God-ordained institution, and the way children treat their parents reflects their attitude toward God Himself.
Literary Analysis
By quoting Scripture, Jesus draws a stark contrast between God’s commands and the Pharisees’ traditions. The pairing of “honor your father and mother” with the severe penalty for cursing parents highlights both the positive and negative aspects of obedience. This structure reinforces the seriousness of the command and the consequences of disobedience.
Matthew often portrays Jesus as interpreting and fulfilling the law with authority. In this passage, Jesus uses the Pharisees’ own Scriptures to expose their failings, demonstrating His deep understanding of God’s Word.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 20:12 – The fifth commandment to honor parents.
- Exodus 21:17 – The penalty for cursing parents.
- Leviticus 20:9 – A similar law concerning cursing parents.
- Ephesians 6:1-3 – Paul reiterates the command to honor parents and connects it to God’s promise of blessing.
- Mark 7:10-13 – A parallel account of this teaching.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the importance of family relationships. Honoring parents involves more than obedience during childhood—it includes respect, care, and gratitude throughout their lives. While cultural practices may differ, the principle of honoring those who raised us remains central.
This passage also challenges Christians to avoid rationalizing behavior that contradicts God’s Word. It calls for a heart of humility and a willingness to prioritize God’s commands over personal preferences or cultural pressures.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is reflected in His design for healthy family relationships. By commanding children to honor their parents, God shows His care for the well-being of both individuals and communities. A society where family bonds are strong reflects God’s love and His desire for harmony and respect among His people.
God’s command to honor parents is not a burden but a reflection of His loving character, teaching us how to live in ways that bring blessing and peace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus fulfills the law perfectly, including the command to honor parents. Throughout His life, Jesus demonstrated respect and care for His earthly parents, even ensuring His mother’s care as He was dying on the cross (John 19:26-27).
Jesus’ teaching in this passage also reveals His role as the ultimate authority on God’s law. By confronting the Pharisees, He affirms the unchanging truth of God’s Word and calls people back to genuine obedience. His life and ministry embody the spirit of the law, showing how love and truth work together in God’s kingdom.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you honor your parents in your current stage of life?
- Are there ways you might be justifying neglect or disrespect toward family members?
- What does this passage teach you about the importance of prioritizing God’s Word over cultural or personal traditions?
- How can Jesus’ example of honoring His parents inspire you to strengthen your family relationships?
- In what ways can honoring parents reflect your love and obedience to God?