How does Ephesians 6:1-3 expand on Colossians 3:20's teaching? Colossians 3:20: The Foundational Command “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.” How Paul Sets the Baseline • Clear, comprehensive: “in everything” • Primary motive: “pleasing to the Lord” – obedience is worship • Applies to every child still under parental authority Ephesians 6:1-3: The Expanded Perspective “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.’” What Ephesians Adds • “in the Lord” – frames obedience as part of discipleship, not mere social custom • “for this is right” – appeals to God’s created moral order (cf. Romans 1:32) • Quotes the Fifth Commandment (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16), linking home life to God’s timeless law • Introduces the promise: well-being and longevity Side-by-Side Comparison 1. Scope – Colossians: “everything” (comprehensive) – Ephesians: same obedience, but explicitly “in the Lord,” grounding it in Christ’s lordship 2. Motivation – Colossians: “pleasing to the Lord” (vertical, worship focus) – Ephesians: “for this is right” (moral order) + “promise” (covenant blessing) 3. Biblical Foundation – Colossians: Apostolic instruction – Ephesians: Apostolic instruction plus direct quotation of the Decalogue, confirming continuity between Old and New Covenants The Promise Explained • Physical prosperity and longevity were tangible covenant blessings for Israel (Proverbs 3:1-2, Proverbs 4:10). • Principle remains: honoring parents positions a believer for God’s favor and societal stability (cf. Jeremiah 35:18-19). Practical Outworkings • Obedience that springs from relationship with Christ, not mere rule-keeping • Honoring parents with attitude, speech, and actions (Proverbs 23:22) • Expectant faith: God still delights to bless children who honor father and mother Key Takeaways • Colossians 3:20 gives the command; Ephesians 6:1-3 explains the why and the reward. • Together they show that filial obedience is both an act of worship and a pathway to blessing. |
    |