Exodus 20:12 - Homilies By J. Urquhart

The commandment with promise.

I. THE DUTY IMPOSED .

1 . Its reasonableness. Reverent, loving subjection to parents is obedience to the deepest instincts of the heart.

2 . Its pleasantness. This subjection is rest and joy: it is ceasing from doubt and inner conflict; it lets into the spirit the sunshine of a parent's loving approbation.

II. THE PROMISE : "That thy days," etc. Obedience to parents is the condition of national prosperity.

1 . It is respect for law and loyal acceptance of the teachings of the past.

2 . It is denial of the spirit of self will and self pleasing.

3 . It guards youth from excess and vice.

4 . It prepares for the understanding of and submission to the will of God.

5 . It lays broad and deep in the nation's life the foundations of industry and strength and of moral, as well as material, greatness.— U .