What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 27:16? Cursed is he who dishonors his father or mother. • This is not a casual statement; “Cursed” signals God’s own judgment, not merely social disapproval (cf. Deuteronomy 11:26–28). • The word “dishonors” covers every form of contempt—mocking words, open rebellion, or neglect in old age. Israel had already heard the positive command, “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16); here Moses states the flip side: persistent dishonor invites divine curse. • Under the Law, severe dishonor could even warrant capital punishment (Exodus 21:17; Leviticus 20:9), underscoring how seriously God values the family structure He created. • Proverbs warns that “the eye that mocks a father… will be eaten by vultures” (Proverbs 30:17), illustrating the disgrace and ruin awaiting the unrepentant. • In the New Testament the command is reaffirmed: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians 6:1-3; Colossians 3:20). Dishonor remains sinful, though Christ now offers forgiveness and transformation to anyone who repents and believes (Acts 2:38). • Practical implications: – Speak respectfully, even in disagreement. – Provide care when parents are aging (1 Timothy 5:4, 8). – Teach children early that obedience to parents is obedience to God. And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ • The gathered tribes on Mount Ebal answered each curse with “Amen” (Deuteronomy 27:11-26). Saying “Amen” means “so be it,” agreeing that God’s verdict is just and binding (Nehemiah 8:6; 1 Corinthians 14:16). • Corporate response matters; Israel’s unity in affirming God’s standards created communal accountability. If an individual broke this command, the whole nation acknowledged the wrongdoing and supported God’s discipline. • For believers today, adding a heartfelt “Amen” when Scripture is read aligns our hearts with God’s truth and reminds us that His Word is not up for debate but for obedience (James 1:22-25). • The solemn “Amen” also points ahead to Revelation 22:20—“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”—showing that God’s people across the ages remain united in eager submission to His will. summary Dishonoring father or mother invites God’s curse because it strikes at the authority structure He ordained for human flourishing. From Sinai to the present, He calls His people to honor parents with respectful words, obedient hearts, and practical care. When the congregation says “Amen,” we confess together that God’s standard is righteous and that we willingly place ourselves under its blessing for obedience or its curse for rebellion. |
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