Large Catechism: 4th Commandment, Part 1

The 4th commandment begins the second table of the law. The first three commandments deal with our relationship with the Triune God, while commandments 4-10 focus our attention on our neighbor. The 4th commandment is the only commandment with a promise. “You shall honor your father and your mother that it may go well with you and that you may live long upon the earth.” We are reminded that the vocation of parent is a high calling, and the vocation of honoring parents is to be fulfilled with the holiest responsibility. We are to hold parents and other authorities in distinction and esteem, speak modestly to them, and show honor in service to them as God’s representatives on earth. Rev. Dr. Jason Lane, professor at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 4th commandment. To learn more about Concordia Seminary, visit csl.edu. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org.