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Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Q: The Bible tells us to obey our parents, but what if I know my parent's decisions are wrong?

You are correct (Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20). We should seek to honor our parents in much the same way that we strive to bring honor to God —in our thoughts, words, and behavior. However, while we are required to honor parents, this doesn’t include imitating ungodly ones (Ezekiel 20:18-19). If a parent ever instructs a child to do something that clearly contradicts God’s commands, that child must obey God rather than his/her parents (Acts 5:28). That being said, we must always show patience, respect and love to our parents even if we disagree with them and/or are forced to disobey them.

One crucial question you must humbly ask yourself is this: How do you know that the actions of your parents are wrong? Are you certain that your parents are doing something that is immoral, according to the Bible or is it only your perception? For instance, if your parents tell you that you cannot watch a certain movie, that doesn't go against Scripture. In fact, they probably have a very good reason. In cases such as these, you should obey your parents because it is a matter of disagreement, not immorality.

[Answered by Pastor HM]