It Starts Small

6 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ² “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— ³ “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

⁴ Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:1-4

Children’s foremost duty bestowed by God is to wholeheartedly obey their parents. This divine command exemplifies God’s commitment to order. It establishes a clear chain of command and an authority structure within the family. From a tender age, children must be nurtured with the expectation of honoring their parents with obedience. This vital principle of obedience is not just a guideline. It is a passionate expectation. It is an essential part of their upbringing. Disobedience, in this framework, warrants discipline, ensuring that our children thrive within the loving boundaries set for them.

⁶ Start children off on the way they should go,
    and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6

¹³ Do not withhold discipline from a child;
    if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.

Proverbs 23:13

As a devoted teacher of very small children, I have witnessed a troubling truth. Obedience is alarmingly absent in our society today. In many households, the roles seem reversed, with children becoming the rulers of their domains. Consider the poignant situation of a mother with a heart full of love. She said to her three-year-old, “Time to go home. We need to leave now.” Yet, instead of heeding her call, the child dashed away, wailing as if the world was ending. In a moment of desperation, the mother conceded, “OK, ten more minutes.” But when the time was up, the child again outright refused to comply. Soon, the mother found herself on her knees, pleading to her little one, yearning for cooperation. Amidst the chaos, the little boy unleashed his frustrations, kicking and hurling blocks at her. In that moment of turmoil, the mother instinctively moved to comfort him. Her heart broke for the upset child before her.

It was a vivid portrayal of countless families. Parents fervently plead and beg. They even resort to cunning tactics—like disguising vegetables under a sugary facade—to coax their children into compliance. The bookstore overflows with tomes on parenting, each book a passionate manifesto of every conceivable philosophy. Today’s modern theories often champion the art of reasoning with children. They celebrate their freedom to explore. They boldly reject the age-old doctrines of discipline. Yet, the timeless wisdom of the Bible echoes, “you reap what you sow.” If parents do not demand respect and obedience from their children, they will face turmoil. Raising disobedient children who seize control makes life an unbearable struggle for everyone involved.

that you may enjoy long life on the earth

I heard an incredible story about a missionary family who dwelled on the edge of a lush jungle. One fateful day, they embarked on a walk through the vibrant forest, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Suddenly, the father’s voice pierced the air, shouting to his son, “Drop to the ground now!” Without a moment’s hesitation, the son complied, not questioning or protesting, not even thinking, “But it’s dirty!” He obeyed instinctively. Unbeknownst to him, a deadly snake was slithering down from the branches above, poised to strike with lethal precision. The boy had been taught the vital lesson of obedience. This lesson saved his life from being tragically cut short.

I have also encountered a heart-wrenching story. It was about a young child who dashed into the street, heedless of the world around him. Despite his mother’s desperate cries for him to stop, her voice faded into the chaos. He kept running and was tragically struck by a car. His life was extinguished too soon. This heartbreaking event highlights the peril of disobedience to parents. Disobedience is a grave danger that can lead to unimaginable consequences. Allowing children to disregard boundaries is not an act of kindness—it’s a disservice that can cost them dearly. A true, loving parent recognizes the necessity of discipline, understanding that it is ultimately for the child’s protection and well-being.

A child is no longer bound to obey their parents once they marry (Ephesians 5:31). A vibrant new family unit emerges. It is led by the husband. This frees the children from the expectation of obedience to their parents. Yet, despite this shift, our obligation to honor and cherish our parents remains eternal. This respect is deep-rooted and endures long after we step into the sacred bond of marriage.

Parental responsibility.

He must fervently instruct his children and discipline them when necessary, for their future depends on it. Throughout the Old Testament, we encounter heart-wrenching examples of godly men. These include David, Samuel, and Eli. They tragically failed to guide their children in the ways of the Lord. In the gripping narrative of Judges, one generation fervently follows God. The next generation forsakes Him. This cycle of neglect and disobedience tragically repeats itself. A core reason for this heartbreaking trend is that parents have not embraced their solemn responsibility. They fail to train the next generation with the seriousness it demands.

Both parents are fundamentally obligated in this area. However, the weight of responsibility is placed squarely on the father. Parents must wholeheartedly embrace their duty to raise their children! This critical task does not fall on the shoulders of schools, grandparents, the government, or babysitters. It belongs to the parents alone. It demands that parents invest their time and energy into their children’s lives, actively participating in every moment. It requires them to be shining examples and to pour out spiritual wisdom into their kids’ hearts regularly. But how can they achieve this?

Heartfelt devotions shared with the kids bring it to life. These devotions ignite their curiosity about various topics. Everyday life situations become rich teaching moments. Profound father/son talks foster connection and understanding. While the father holds the mantle of authority, it is crucial to remember that God passionately cautions against wielding this power excessively. Misguided use could lead children into depths of anger, bitterness, and resentment. There exists a noble path of discipline, and a perilous one. The right way champions love and growth. In contrast, the wrong way can cast shadows on the heart.

Parents must approach their role with unwavering love. They should show fierce kindness. Parents should demonstrate genuine interest in every facet of their children’s lives. Jesus embodied authority to the disciples, yet He also embraced the role of a true friend. Similarly, parents should wield their authority for the ultimate good of their child. They should not use it for mere dominion. They must foster a deep friendship. Never relinquish your sacred duty, not even to the Sunday School teacher; to do so is to invite chaos. If you choose that path, brace yourself for a wayward child. They may feel lost in a world that seems unkind.

Reflective Moment: Dear parents, how can you passionately cultivate obedience and a deep love for God in your children? Are you committing to regular family devotions that ignite their hearts? Imagine the impact of daily nurturing their spirits with the life-giving truths from God’s Word! What inspiring steps can you take each day to feed your children the wisdom and love they need?

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Cross References:

• Colossians 3:20
• Exodus 20:12
• Deuteronomy 5:16
• Proverbs 1:8
• Proverbs 22:15
• Hebrews 12:5-11

Discussion Questions

• How is the first part of chapter 6 related to what we have been learning in chapter five?
• What is the authority structure outlined here?
• What does it mean to obey your parents in the Lord?
• What is the difference between obedience and honor?
• How long is it necessary for kids to obey their parents?
• What does it mean “first command with a promise”?
• What is the promise attached?
• Does this mean every obedient child will live longer than every disobedient child? If not, then what does it mean?
• Why might an obedient child live longer than a disobedient one?
• Is this authority structure normally followed in society?
• Some parents might say, “I want my child to obey me, but they just won’t.” What would you tell them?
• What is a father’s responsibility?
• How might some fathers provoke their children to anger?
• Why do you think the discipline and instruction responsibility is directed towards fathers instead of mothers?
• What does this tell us?

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⁵ Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. ⁶ Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. ⁷ Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, ⁸ because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free. ⁹ And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

Ephesians 6:5-9

Does the Bible condone slavery?

Slavery during New Testament times and under the Mosaic covenant cannot be compared to the abhorrent practice of buying and selling “black” people as mere property. This was done by “white” individuals during the notorious slave trade that scarred our world for centuries. No “white” Christian should ever delude themselves. They cannot twist even the slightest positive reference to slavery in these texts. This cannot be used to rationalize the heinous historic slave trade. It is a grave injustice and a deep wound that continues to mar the legacies of both the U.S. and the U.K.

The Bible commands profound kindness towards slaves and servants among the Israelites. This is a powerful reminder that they, too, once bore the yoke of slavery under the Egyptians. This poignant truth urges them to extend the compassion they desired during their own suffering to those in their care. It is essential to recognize that slavery has been part of society since ancient times. It was prevalent even in the heart of the Middle East. If God had ignored this injustice, there would be no principles in treatment. It would allow for ruthless oppression without recourse. Yet, the existence of rights and protective rules for these individuals is a testament to God’s unwavering compassion. Sadly, this truth is frequently misinterpreted as a justification for slavery—an utterly false narrative. Remarkably, in the eyes of God, slave traders are condemned as among the most egregious sinners. This is stated in 1 Timothy 1:10.

¹⁶ “Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession.

Exodus 21:16

According to this verse, individuals involved in the horrific slave trade from the 16th to 19th centuries were condemned. They deserve nothing less than execution! Such relentless rules underscore that the origin of slaves and servants within Israelite culture stemmed from their own choices. They made these choices whether they came from the Israelites or neighboring cultures. Yet, in stark contrast, those forced into slavery in the Roman Empire faced an unimaginable fate. They were stripped of their agency and dignity.

Slavery in Israel serves as a profound illustration of a unique type of bankruptcy law. The government does not interfere. This allows individuals drowning in debt to reclaim their dignity. In this challenging circumstance, a person can choose to sell the only asset they have left—their ability to labor. This becomes a lifeline, a loan that offers hope for a turnaround. Remarkably, within just six years, these individuals can pay off their debt and regain their freedom! Bond servants who embark on this journey not only earn a wage but also have their debts covered. They enjoy the comfort of a home and receive valuable on-the-job training. They commit just six years of their lives to this transformative experience. It almost seems like a more compelling path than college, which rarely alleviates debt and demands payment upfront!

A few pointers to remember:

• Under Mosaic Law, slaves were distinct from the brutally mistreated slaves of other societies. They were more akin to valued servants or bond servants. They were entrusted with rights and dignity that reflected their inherent worth as human beings.
• The Bible stands firmly against the abhorrent practice of slave trading, as emphasized in 1 Timothy 1:10. It reveals that a slave or bond servant was not merely a victim of circumstance. Rather, this person voluntarily entered this state. This was often driven by the desperate need to pay off debts. This highlights the profound complexities of human choice amidst dire situations.
• The Bible recognizes that slavery is a reality in this sin-cursed world. It doesn’t ignore it. Instead, it gives regulations for good treatment by both masters and servants. It reveals they are equal under Christ.
• The Israelites faced a heavy burden of debt. They had the profound opportunity to sell themselves as bond servants. They embraced this path to secure their livelihood. Through this noble act, they could meet their financial obligations. They also earned a wage and found shelter. After six transformative years, they looked forward to liberation. Even foreigners shared in this merciful chance to serve. They chose to enter this bond willingly, not out of desperation. They knew it was a temporary and redemptive journey!
• In God’s family every person is equal and valued (Galatians 3:28). For example in 1 Timothy 3 qualifications for elders and deacons were listed out. If slaves met the qualifications through their own character they could also be leaders of the church.
• Biblical Christians led the fight to abolish slavery.

Inside the church, every soul was to be embraced with the same dignity and respect as anyone else. This included slaves. They enjoyed equal rights no less than their free counterparts. Yet, outside those hallowed walls, the oppressive grip of governmental rules cast a harsh reality upon slavery. This was a bitter truth that Paul passionately addressed. He guided believing slaves on how to navigate their lives with integrity and strength amid such injustice.

Slaves in Bible times should try to gain their freedom if they could.

Paul fervently believed that freedom was essential. It was not just desirable, but a beacon of hope. This beacon beckoned humanity to reach for it, if only it could be grasped. Slavery was a dark and abhorrent institution. It emerged only as a grim shadow following the fall. It serves as a stark reminder of the cost of lost liberty.

²¹ Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so.

1 Corinthians 7:21

Obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling

⁵ Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.

Ephesians 6:5

Paul sets an extraordinary benchmark for them to aspire to. They are called to honor their masters with the same fervor as they would for Christ Himself. This obedience should radiate from the very core of their being. They are to serve as though Christ is imparting the guidance. Therefore, any thought of complaining, harboring bitterness, or displaying negativity becomes utterly unacceptable. Ultimately, genuine and uplifting behavior springs from a heart ignited by passion and purpose.

6 All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered. ² Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers. Instead, they should serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the welfare of their slaves.

1 Timothy 6:1-2

Beyond mere obedience, Paul passionately asserts in 1 Timothy that slaves are called to honor their masters. To honor a master is to embody respect, politeness, and unwavering obedience. A slave who truly honors his master demonstrates fierce loyalty and a relentless work ethic. In stark contrast, grumbling, complaining, harboring bitterness, or gossiping about a master utterly betray this spirit of honor. The life of a slave was not easy. Neither was obedience to a master. So why did Paul require them to obey as if they were obeying Christ Himself?

Paul was acutely aware of the dire implications for Christianity. He feared what might happen if slaves were to rise up against their oppressors in the name of Christ. The teachings of “The Way” of Jesus were revolutionary for the people of the Roman Empire. They were engulfed in a fog of misunderstandings and misconceptions about this radical faith. At times, they grotesquely imagined that Christians indulged in cannibalism. They mistook the sacred act of communion as a horrific feast on the Lord’s body. They also whispered scandalously about orgies. They misinterpreted love feasts — mere expressions of fellowship — as something salacious. Many people considered the familial bonds among Christians, who called each other “brother” and “sister,” as twisted rumors of incest. This situation highlighted the urgent need for clarity and truth in a world clouded by ignorance.

If slaves dared to revolt, the government would swiftly unleash its fury against this newfound faith. Christianity was once a beacon of hope. It would be branded as anti-social. It would be seen as an insidious movement aiming to dismantle the very fabric of society. Persecution would surge, fueled by fear and resentment. Masters and their families might have been swayed by the humble and gracious spirit of their servants. Yet, they would likely find themselves turning against the faith. Their prosperity was threatened. Ultimately, the noble cause of the gospel would endure profound suffering in this turbulent clash.

¹⁹ Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.

1 Corinthians 9:19

In 1 Corinthians 9:19, Paul passionately proclaimed a transformative principle. He said he became “all things to all people.” This was so that he might “by all means save some.” For slaves, persisting in obedience to their masters embodied this profound principle. Winning souls for Christ was more important than the fleeting escape from slavery. It guided them towards eternal freedom from the clutches of sin. The Bible fervently advocates for transforming society from within, one heart at a time, rather than inciting revolution. Paul’s powerful counsel to Philemon to grant freedom to his slave, Onesimus, epitomizes the essence of Christian love and righteousness. This was not merely a suggestion; it was the only moral course of action.

Reflective Moment: It is essential for employees to honor their bosses. Strive not just for professional respect. Ultimately, aim to win them for Christ through every action you take. Your attitudes and behaviors at work should serve as a powerful testimony for Christ. They should draw others toward Him. They should not push them away. Aim to be a radiant light in the workplace, inspiring those around you with your unwavering faith and love!

Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. 

We are going to look at the “sister” verse to this passage in Colossians.

²² Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. ²³ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, ²⁴ since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. ²⁵ Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.

Colossians 3:22-25

This embodies the very essence of our driving force behind every action we undertake. Our ambitions must never be rooted in the desire to appease others. In seeking to please people, we risk entangling ourselves in a web of complications that can derail our true purpose. For instance:

• Pouring every ounce of our energy into work only when the piercing gaze of the boss is upon us.
• Attending church, our hearts aflame, to visibly showcase our fervent spirituality to the world.
• Performing acts of kindness, driven by the desire to truly dazzle others with the brilliance of our generosity.
• Turning our homes into sanctuaries, meticulously tidying up solely for the sake of other people’s visits.
• Diving into the Bible with newfound fervor whenever we feel the weight of scrutiny pressing down on us.
• Sacrificing our true beliefs in a desperate bid for approval from our parents.
• Yearning for a prominent role in the church, ardently seeking the acknowledgment and appreciation of our community.

The list could stretch infinitely! This is the very sin that ensnared the Pharisees—a grave error that Jesus passionately condemned! In Matthew 6, He unleashed a powerful rebuke, piercing through their selfish and sinful motives! Jesus boldly proclaimed a message. Those who engage in spiritual acts to bask in the admiration of others have already received their hollow reward. Those individuals have already received their hollow reward. They sacrifice any genuine approval from God, gaining nothing but the empty accolades of man. Ultimately, when everything is laid bare, we confront a profound and urgent question. Will you choose to honor God? Or will you cling desperately to the transient approval of man?

Man looks at the outer appearance, but God looks at the heart (2 Samuel 16:7). As human beings, we often get lost in the illusion of outer beauty. We obsessively strive for approval through our looks and accomplishments. Many of us desire a closer relationship with God. We pursue this through good deeds, education, and ritualistic practices. We believe these actions will earn us favor. Yet, all these efforts create a polished façade that distracts us from the true issue: our deeply flawed hearts. From these verses, let us embrace the urgent call. We should not only recognize this truth but also transform our focus completely!

Firstly, we must fervently evaluate the motivations of our hearts! Why do we make the choices we do? At the pinnacle of our motivations, there should be a profound fear of the Lord. Additionally, we should have an unwavering desire to please Him. If we genuinely devoted ourselves to serving God with a sincere heart, our lives would be radically transformed! Just imagine the incredible ways this transformation could ripple through our lives!

• Immerse yourself in the Bible. Do it not merely to complete a plan or to quell someone’s curiosity about your reading. Do it out of an insatiable desire to know God more intimately!
• You would refrain from committing secret sins when no one is watching. This is driven by the profound understanding that God’s gaze is ever upon you.
• Your generosity would be poured out to others. This would be fueled by a genuine passion to uplift them. You would not seek the approval of men.
• Your face would shine with authenticity; you wouldn’t wear a mask of cheerfulness while your heart rages in bitterness. Instead, your countenance would radiate the joy and peace that truly dwell within you.
• You would obey with an exuberant spirit, fully aware that this is the longing of God for your life.

Second, we must passionately commit to overcoming the instinct to judge others solely by their external appearance. We should dig profoundly into the heart of the issue. It is imperative to nurture the right intentions within our own hearts. We must also earnestly resist the temptation to hastily judge others based on superficial looks. The next time you feel that powerful urge to judge someone at first sight, stop for a moment. Genuinely seek to understand their circumstances. Dare to place yourself in their shoes and uncover the motivations behind their thoughts and perspectives.

since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven

They were never to exploit or abuse them. Instead, they were called to treat their slaves with the utmost honor and respect, recognizing their shared humanity. They must understand that the Master in heaven was always watching over them. His gaze is impartial and unwavering. It is utterly unimpressed by worldly wealth or status. He would hold them accountable for the way they treated their slaves. He reminded them that every single individual would ultimately have to answer for their choices. Everyone is responsible for their treatment of others. This moral obligation extends equally to the lowliest beggar. It applies just as much to the richest CEO, presiding over tens of thousands of employees. This reminds us all of our duty to uphold dignity and compassion.

Reflection Moment: Each one of us must never forget that we answer to a higher authority in heaven. This is true regardless of the position of authority we hold. God will hold us accountable for the way we treat those entrusted to our care—be they students, children, or employees. What is one powerful change you can implement to become a better leader for those who look up to you? Would your employees proudly declare you a remarkable boss?

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Discussion Questions

• Why was it necessary for Paul to cover this issue of slaves and masters?
• What stance does the Bible take on slavery?
• Is there any division in the church between slaves and masters?
• What does this tell you about God’s heart on slavery?
• What command did Paul give to slaves?
• What does it mean masters according to the flesh?
• What does in fear and trembling mean?
• What should their motivations be?
• What command is given to the masters?
• How might this section of Scripture apply to us today in a world where slavery is more and more rare?

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