Why is obedience to parents "pleasing to the Lord" in Colossians 3:20? The Heart of Colossians 3:20 “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20) Why does this matter so much to God? The single verse nestles inside a section on putting on the “new self” (3:10). In that renewed life, the first arena where Christ’s character shows is the home. How Obedience Pleases the Lord • It aligns with His created order. God set parents over children (Genesis 18:19). • It affirms His commandment. “Honor your father and your mother” sits in the Ten Words (Exodus 20:12). • It echoes Christ’s own example. “Then He went down to Nazareth with them and was subject to them” (Luke 2:51). • It trains the heart for wider submission to God. “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death” (Philippians 2:8). Reflecting God’s Authority Structure • Earthly families mirror the heavenly family. When children heed parents, they acknowledge God’s sovereign design. • Disregard for parents often blossoms into disregard for all authority (Romans 13:1-2). Following Jesus’ Footsteps • Jesus obeyed Mary and Joseph, though He was their Creator (Luke 2:51). • Obedience isn’t about inferiority; it’s about willingly arranging oneself under God-appointed oversight (John 6:38). • Pleasing the Father is the common thread: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Training Ground for Lifelong Faith • Childhood obedience molds a conscience that responds quickly to the Lord’s voice later. • Neglect here hardens hearts early; responsiveness here softens them. Blessing and Protection • “Honor your father and mother… so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2-3, quoting the promise of Exodus 20:12). • God attaches tangible blessing to this command—health, longevity, and well-being. • Parental instruction often shields from pitfalls: “When you walk, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you” (Proverbs 6:22). Witness to a Watching World • A respectful child stands out in a culture of self-assertion, offering living proof that Christ transforms relationships. • Family harmony becomes a platform for the gospel (Titus 2:10). Practical Ways to Walk It Out • Listen attentively—eye contact, no interruptions. • Respond promptly—first time asked, without arguing. • Speak honorably—tone matters as much as words. • Thank parents regularly—gratitude cements respect. • Seek counsel—big decisions, even as adults, show continuing honor. When a Command Conflicts with God’s Word • Scripture’s “in everything” stops where sin begins. The apostles model civil disobedience only when told to disobey God (Acts 5:29). • Respectful appeal replaces rebellious defiance. The Larger Goal Obedience to parents isn’t mere rule-keeping; it is daily worship. Every willing “Yes, Mom,” or “Sure, Dad,” rises as a fragrant offering to the Lord, who delighted in His Son’s obedience and delights in ours. |
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