The Fifth Commandment
(Shorter Catechism 63-66)

The Catechism teaches that the fifth commandment requires giving proper honour and performing the right duties for those in authority over us (A.64). The Catechism gives the commandment wider application, but the primary focus has to be on honouring parents, respecting and obeying them.

We are not to neglect giving the honour and performing the duties to those to whom this is due (A.65). As well as parents this can include those in authority over us in school, in the workplace, in church, and in government.

The commandment encourages obedience with ‘a promise of long life and prosperity (as far as it shall serve for God’s glory and their own good) to all such as keep this commandment.’ (A.66).

We cannot expect blessing in life, if we don’t respect parents (and others who rule over us). Refusal to honour those in authority points to a rebellious heart against God which will bring down God’s cursing and not His blessing.

Who is in authority over you that you struggle to respect and obey as you should? Pray about this and remember that respecting God-appointed authorities is a vital part of our obedience to Christ. Pray for those in authority over you, this is another command that God gives us.