BibleProject | The 10 CommandmentsSample

Honoring the Life-Givers

The command to honor your mother and father might sound like a rule for kids that basically means “do whatever your parents say.” But all 10 commands, including this one, are aimed at everyone in Israel, young and old. God is teaching all people to value and respect their parents while also caring for their needs as they age.

English translations use “honor” to translate the Hebrew verb kabbed, which means “to treat as heavy or weighty.” To honor parents—notably both mother and father—is to heavily value them and regard their dignity and well-being as important, weighty matters.

While some cultures value the wisdom that comes with age, others dismiss the elderly as “past their prime” or even burdensome. As today’s video explains, Jesus exposes the “Corban” dilemma in his day, a tradition that some relied on to justify neglecting the needs of parents while pretending to honor God.

But we can’t withhold what people need and say it’s about respecting God. Instead, Jesus says that honoring and caring for parents is honoring God (Mark 7:9-13).

In fact, Jesus expands this directive beyond our biological fathers and mothers (Matt. 12:48-50). He wants everyone to esteem vulnerable people, take care of widows, and honor all those who gave us life. When we do, we honor God, the ultimate life-giver, and we partner with God in caring for all humans.

Reflection Question:

• How can you expand your view of "honor your father and your mother" to encompass care for all the elderly people you know? What's something you can do today to honor someone who might usually be overlooked?