From Discipleship Weekly

(a publication of the Presbyterian Church of Islip)

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A Word from Our Sponsor Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.' -- Matthew 18:3 The Heidelberg Catechism: Part 3 - Thankfulness Week 39: The Fifth Commandment 104. Q. What does God require in the fifth commandment? A. That I show honor, love, and faithfulness to my father and mother and to all those who are set in authority over me; that I submit myself with respectful obedience to all their careful instruction and discipline; and that I also bear patiently their failures, since it is God's will to govern us by their hand. [Ex. 21:17; Prov. 1:8; 4:1; 20:20; 23:22; Matt. 22:21; Rom. 13:1-8; Eph. 5:21-22; 6:1-9; Col. 3:18-4:1; I Pet.2:18] Suggestions for discussion and review: 1. Using Ephesians 6:1-4 and today's catechism, identify five attitudes children should have toward parents. For each of the five, list one specific way you would expect a child to demonstrate that attitude. 2. According to the Scriptures, what are the benefits of obeying this commandment? What does the biblical promise mean to you? 3. The Catechism includes others under the fifth commandment. Who would some of these others "in authority" be, and why should we obey them? (See Romans 13:1.) 4. Are there ever exceptions to this commandment? If so, give some examples. If not, give some reasons. * * * * * * * * * * My relationship with God is part of my relationship with men. Failure in one will cause failure with the other. -- Andrew Murray