The Large Catechism – part 127

Scripture Text: Isaiah 3:8

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From the Word: For Jerusalem has stumbled, and Judah has fallen because their speech and their deeds are against the Lord, defying his glorious presence. (Isaiah 3:8)

From the ConfessionsThe Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments

The Fourth Commandment

Honor your father and your mother, (that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God is giving you.)

After the sublime worship of God described in the previous commandments, this is the highest work we can do. Giving alms and every other good work toward our neighbor are not equal to keeping this commandment. For God has lifted the estate of parents to the highest place, indeed, assigning it his own standing on earth. This will and pleasure of God ought to be a sufficient reason and incentive for us to do what we can, cheerfully and with good will.

Pulling It Together: The people of God rebelled against his authority, largely because they were disrespectful to their elders (Isa 3:5b). When this happens, society is ripped apart to the extent that even God cannot heal their wounds (Isa 3:7). Those who learn in the home to fear the Lord, have already understand that recognizing earthly authority is tantamount to respecting the divine will. This perception should provide us with sufficient reason to honor our parents. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, awaken within me honor for my parents. Amen.

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Fulfilled In Him is a five-part Lenten drama series, focusing on five pairs of characters — one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament — who demonstrate in their witness the fulfillment of God's promise. Presented with a kind of before-and-after perspective, the pairing of characters examines how Christ is the key to Scripture — "the founder and perfecter of our faith."

Other Lenten Dramas


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