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Bible Notes - The Ten Commandments 

Exodus 20:12      The fifth commandment
 
The importance of this commandment.
This is the first commandment of the second table which deals with man's duty to man. It reflects the basic family unit as God's design for society. Everyone has parents. This is the primary concern when moving from the consideration of God to man.
It is not just a matter of relationship; it is also one of authority. It points to a recognition of, and respect for, God-appointed leadership. At the time it was given, the Hebrew nation was being formed, so no political, judicial or religious institutions had been established to exercise leadership. This commandment can therefore imply the acceptance of other legitimate human authorities, in the state or the workplace for example.
 
The requirements of this commandment.
Our parents were given to us by God, so whatever their shortcomings we must develop a positive attitude towards them for that reason. They are to be honoured for the role they were given, even if we find it hard ред to honour them for the way they fulfilled it. That sympathetic inner disposition towards them should be constantly expressed through appropriate practical actions. In the earlier years these would take the form of obedience and gratitude, while in the later years they will be seen in greater care and protection.
 
The implications of this commandment.
If children of any age are to obey this commandment, then parents are obliged to do what they can to facilitate it. If parents are to be honoured, they must be honourable. If children are to care for their
 parents, they must be cared for by their parents first. Paul presents this dual obligation in
Ephesians 6:1-4.
 
The promises of this commandment.
The promises show the general outworking of a basic principle rather than showing a direct result of an individual's obedience. They relate more to the founding of the nation and the prospects for any society which conforms to the principle. This is the only commandment with a promise attached to it, for it is saying that obedience to it will contribute to a person enjoying the best that life has to offer.
 

Planning your Visit

Welcome from the VicarRevd. Peter Breckwoldt

Let me welcome you to St John’s! I am so delighted you have found our web site. We are a Church family in Wimborne for anyone living, working or studying around this area. Whoever you are, whatever your age, whether you’re an experienced Christian or not, we would love you to join us.

From an intrigued onlooker to the committed follower we are keen that everyone should grow in relationship with God through knowing Jesus. To help us do that our emphasis is on hearing God speak to us by his Holy Spirit through his word, the Bible. Each of us knows that we only grow in a relationship with someone and get to know them when we spend time listening to them and responding and reacting to what they say. So the focus of St John’s is on listening to God’s word, talking to him in prayer and taking up all that he says.

The Church family here at St John’s longs to help anyone who wants to investigate the life of Jesus. On this site you will find people, meetings, talks and events shaped to help you take another step forward in finding out more about God and his love for us in Jesus, and to help you get linked into the church family life.

I do hope I will have the opportunity to meet you personally in the very near future and that you will quickly feel at home at St John’s.

Revd. Peter Breckwoldt