Ephesians 6:1

Ephesians 6:1 initiates the final section of Paul’s practical instructions to believers, often referred to as the "household codes." Following his detailed exhortations to husbands and wives, Paul now turns his attention to the youngest members of the Christian home, laying down a foundational principle for family order and spiritual well-being.

Context

This verse is part of a larger discussion in Ephesians 5-6 concerning Christian conduct within various relationships. After addressing the importance of being filled with the Spirit and walking in love, Paul applies these principles to the home. He begins with mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21) and then speaks to wives and husbands, and now to children and parents. This structure highlights that Christian faith impacts every aspect of life, especially familial relationships, which are to reflect the order and love found in Christ.

Key Themes

• Obedience and Authority: The primary command is for children to obey their parents. This establishes a clear line of authority and submission within the family unit, crucial for order and training.
• "In the Lord" (en Kyriō): This critical qualifier emphasizes that the obedience commanded is not absolute or blind, but rather rooted in and consistent with one's relationship with Christ. Children are to obey because it aligns with God's will and honors Him. It also implies that parents should lead in a way that is "in the Lord," providing righteous instruction.
• Righteousness and Justice: The phrase "for this is right" (Greek: dikaion) signifies that this command is inherently just, righteous, and morally correct. It is not merely a cultural dictate but a divine principle that leads to flourishing within the home and society. This echoes the Old Testament emphasis on honoring parents, which is a foundational aspect of God's law, as seen in the Ten Commandments.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "obey" here is hypakouō, which literally means "to listen under," implying a readiness to hear and respond positively to authority. It's not just passive hearing but active compliance. The term "right" (dikaion) is closely related to justice and righteousness, underscoring the moral and spiritual validity of this command from God's perspective.

Practical Application

Ephesians 6:1 provides timeless guidance for both children and parents in fostering a godly home environment:

• For Children: This verse calls for a willing and respectful submission to parental guidance and instruction. This obedience is a tangible expression of their faith and love for God, as it is "in the Lord." It helps children develop discipline, respect for authority, and a foundation for future responsible living.
• For Parents: While the verse directly addresses children, it implicitly guides parents. Their authority should be exercised "in the Lord," meaning with love, wisdom, and according to biblical principles, as further elaborated in Ephesians 6:4. They are entrusted with the vital role of raising their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
• For the Family Unit: When children obey their parents "in the Lord," it contributes to peace, harmony, and spiritual growth within the household, creating a stable foundation for the entire family's walk with God. This divine order is beneficial for all members and strengthens the family's testimony to the world.