Honoring Mother
Pastor Tan Thai · May 1, 2023
This sermon presents the doctrine of honoring father and mother based on Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:2-3. This commandment is the first law with a promise attached, and it forms the foundation for a family obedient to God. The sermon emphasizes that honoring parents is not merely a moral duty but also the key to receiving blessing and long life.
The opening section presents the main theme of the sermon: honoring father and mother is a fundamental doctrine in the Gospel, recorded in Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:2-3. This is one of the most important commandments, not only because it demands respect but also because it is the first law with a promise attached—the promise of blessing and long life on the earth. This honor reflects the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of true knowledge.
The second section develops the theological argument by quoting from Proverbs 1:7-9, which teaches that the instruction of father and mother is like a garland upon the head of a child and chains about the neck—symbols of protection and grace. The sermon also emphasizes through the example in 1 Kings 2:19 of Bathsheba, the mother of Solomon, that especially a mother is to be honored. King Solomon rose to meet his mother, bowed down to her, and had a throne set for his mother at his right hand—this demonstrates the highest honor a king can bestow upon his mother.
The third section applies the message to the practical life of the congregation through the example of Jesus. Luke 2:51 records that He went down to Nazareth and was obedient to His parents—Jesus, though the Son of God, honored His mother and father. This shows that honoring parents is not a sign of weakness but a sign of obedience to God. The sermon reminds that the instruction of parents, especially knowledge of Scripture from childhood (as 2 Timothy 3:14 describes), can make a child wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
The fourth section concludes the sermon by emphasizing the consequences of dishonoring parents. Proverbs 3:17 warns that the eye that mocks a father and despises obedience to a mother will be plucked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the eagles. The sermon encourages the congregation to understand that honoring parents is not merely a command of God but a source of real blessing—those who honor their father and mother will live long, will be blessed, and will build a strong family in faith.