The Large Catechism – part 140
Scripture Text: Matthew 18:5–6
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From the Word: 5 And whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, 6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe on me to stumble, it would be an advantage to him to have a great millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. (Matthew 18:5–6)
From the Confessions: The 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.)
Whoever will not be persuaded by this and inclined to godliness, we hand over to the hangman and to the reaper. Therefore, let everyone who allows advice remember that God is not be taken casually. It is God who speaks to you and he demands obedience. If you obey him, you are his dear child. But if you despise the commandment, then shame, misery, and grief are your reward.
Pulling It Together: There is more to being persuaded than for a child to believe the Fourth Commandment. Another side of the persuasion is adults teaching it to the little ones. Without it, they are lost, and the one who should have taught them the Lord’s way, is the one responsible for that child’s loss. Teach them while you have them.
Prayer: Give me the mettle to fulfill my responsibilities to you, Lord. Amen.
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Author
Rev. Mark E. Ryman serves as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Previously, Pastor Ryman has served other congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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