Luther’s Small Catechism

by Dr. Martin Luther
Introduction The Ten Commandments The Creed The Lord’s Prayer Means of Grace The Sacrament of Baptism Confession The Sacrament of the Altar Daily Prayers Table of Duties Christian Questions with Their Answers Luther’s Preface
Select Language About
From Luther’s Small Catechism © 2019 Concordia Publishing House, cph.org

Explanation of The Fourth Commandment

Explanation of The Fourth Commandment

The Fourth Commandment

Honor your father and your mother.

What does this mean?

We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them. 

The Central Thought

God gives parents a unique task that serves the well-being of all society.

What makes parents unique among all other people in our lives? 

Read John 19:25--27. Note how Jesus honored His mother as He was dying. 

✠ As Christians, we give parents special honor as God's representatives on earth---gifts of God through whom He gave us the gift of life.

How can I show that I honor and cherish my parents as gifts of God and as His representatives on earth? 

A Closer Reading of the Small Catechism

54. Why does this commandment focus on parents and other authorities?

Get Access to the 
2017 Explanation

The 2017 Explanation presents a lens to faithfully understand God’s Word in the midst of changing times—providing a comprehensive, practical guide for living the Christian life.

With access to 374 questions and 1,142 Scripture references, you’ll get more biblical teaching and devotional aids than ever before.

Available on iTunes or Google Play store