An Example of Filial Piety
VBC Albuquerque · May 10, 2025
This sermon, preached on Mother's Day (May 11, 2025), emphasizes the importance of filial piety. Through the biblical account of Ruth and Naomi, the pastor demonstrates that true filial devotion is not mere words but love expressed through concrete actions, personal sacrifice, and genuine care for parents, especially in their declining years.
The sermon opens with an emphasis on Mother's Day, celebrated in 81 countries worldwide, honoring the grace and sacrifice of mothers across cultures and religions. The pastor explores the profound bond between mother and child, beginning from conception when the child is sustained by the mother's body for nine months and ten days, living under her protection and care.
The second section develops the narrative of Naomi, a mother-in-law who experiences immense suffering through the loss of her husband and two sons. The pastor explains the meanings of her sons' names—Mahlon (sickness) and Chilion (weakness)—to illustrate that regardless of circumstances, mothers view their children through the lens of unconditional love. Through poignant stories of elderly mothers abandoned or neglected by their unfilial children, the pastor warns that a mother's deepest pain comes not only from death or illness but from her children's ingratitude and apathy.
The third section addresses the theological significance of the Fifth Commandment, particularly the apostle Paul's teaching in Ephesians 6:1-3 regarding obedience and honor toward parents. The pastor notes this is the first commandment with a promise—that filial children shall be blessed and live long upon the earth. Connecting to the Vietnamese context, the pastor reminds listeners that Vietnamese concepts of filial piety, rooted in Confucian and Taoist traditions, are not foreign to Christian teaching but rather confirm ancient virtues. The pastor refutes the notion that Christians influenced by Western culture should abandon Vietnamese values of filial devotion.
The fourth section centers on Ruth's exemplary filial piety. When Naomi urges her daughter-in-law to return to her own people, Ruth pledges her unwavering commitment through sacred vows, demonstrating that true filial devotion involves personal sacrifice, obedience, respect, tireless labor, and concern expressed even in the sharing of food. The pastor emphasizes that Ruth not only gleaned grain but set aside her own portion for Naomi's sustenance.
The final section concludes with hope and gospel proclamation. The pastor reveals that from Ruth's faithful life as a daughter-in-law comes King David, and from his line comes Jesus Christ the Savior. Scripture preserves Ruth's story so that bereaved mothers know God has not abandoned them and will restore what was lost, and so that faithful children like Ruth know God will reward their devotion. The pastor encourages all children caring for aging parents and closes with touching poems about the eternal bond between mother and child.