How does Exodus 18:6 connect to honoring parents in the Ten Commandments? The Verse in Focus “He sent word to Moses, ‘I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you with your wife and her two sons.’ ” (Exodus 18:6) Family Reunion on the Threshold of Sinai • Israel is encamped at the mountain of God (Exodus 18:5). • Before the Law is formally given, Moses’ household is reunited. • Jethro—already called “priest of Midian” and repeatedly “father-in-law”—takes the initiative to restore the family circle. Honor Practiced Before Honor Is Commanded • Exodus 18 precedes Exodus 20 chronologically. The Spirit chose to showcase honor in action before codifying it in stone. • Moses does not treat Jethro as a distant Gentile relative but as a respected elder (see Exodus 18:7, “Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, bowed down, and kissed him”). • The language of v. 6 (“your wife … your two sons”) highlights responsibility toward family. Moses welcomes them back rather than excusing himself with leadership duties. Parallels to the Fifth Commandment “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12) • The same Hebrew root for honor (כָּבֵד kaved) appears in both passages—acted out in ch. 18, legislated in ch. 20. • Jethro receives honor as a parent-figure; later, God broadens the principle to every Israelite household. • Sequence matters: behavior modeled, then mandate delivered, underscoring that God’s commands never contradict His narrative. Ripple Effects in the Rest of Scripture • Deuteronomy 5:16 restates the command for the new generation. • Proverbs 1:8–9 celebrates parental instruction as a crown and garland. • Jesus applies the command when confronting the Pharisees’ Corban tradition (Matthew 15:4–6). • Paul affirms it as “the first commandment with a promise” (Ephesians 6:2–3). Each reference echoes the respect Moses showed Jethro. Practical Takeaways • Honor begins at home—before platforms, ministries, or careers. • Elders and in-laws count; Scripture never limits honor to biological parents only. • Genuine honor combines attitude (respect) and action (service, hospitality). • Obeying the fifth commandment invites blessing, just as Moses’ obedience positioned Israel for wise counsel from Jethro (Exodus 18:17–24). Living It Out – Speak respectfully of parents and parent-figures, even when roles shift. – Make room in busy schedules to welcome family; leadership is no excuse for neglect. – Seek and value the wisdom of elder believers, recognizing God’s providential placement of authority. Honor was lived in Exodus 18:6; it was legislated in Exodus 20:12; it is still life-giving today. |
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