InstaStudy

The Divine Order: A Daughter's Obedience and a Mother's Authority

This Bible study explores the scriptural principles guiding a daughter's obedience to her mother and the mother's God-given right to command and instruct, rooted in the foundational truth of God's singular authority and divine order within the family.

1. The Foundation of Authority in God's Design

1.1 God as the Sole Source of All Authority

Verses: Isaiah 44:6; Deuteronomy 6:4; Ephesians 1:22; Romans 13:1
  • God is one, supreme, and the origin of all power and dominion.
  • All authority on earth, whether in government or family, is delegated from Him.

1.2 God's Established Order in the Family

Verses: Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:22-24; Colossians 3:18-20
  • God Himself established the family unit as the foundational societal structure.
  • Roles within the family are divinely appointed and reflect God's order for harmony and well-being.

1.3 Parental Authority as a Reflection of God's Authority

Verses: Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 6:20
  • Parents represent God's authority and guidance to their children.
  • Disrespecting parental authority is, in essence, disrespecting the divine order God has put in place.

2. Honoring Parents: A Divine Command

2.1 The Fifth Commandment: A Cornerstone Principle

Verses: Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16
  • “Honor your father and your mother” is a direct and foundational command from God.
  • It is the first commandment given with a promise of blessing and long life.

2.2 What 'Honor' Truly Entails

Verses: Proverbs 23:22; Leviticus 19:3
  • Honor encompasses respect, esteem, care, and a deep appreciation for parents.
  • It is an attitude of the heart that is expressed through actions and words.

2.3 Obedience as a Form of Honor

Verses: Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20
  • Children are explicitly commanded to obey their parents in the Lord.
  • This obedience is not only a sign of honor but also an act that is pleasing to God.

3. The Mother's Role and Authority

3.1 The Mother's Unique Position and Influence

Verses: Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 6:20; Proverbs 31:26
  • Mothers play a vital and irreplaceable role in nurturing, teaching, and guiding their children.
  • Her wisdom, instruction, and counsel are precious and invaluable.

3.2 The Mother's Right to Command and Instruct

Verses: Proverbs 31:1-9; Proverbs 29:15
  • A mother's authority is an integral part of the parental authority structure established by God.
  • Her commands and instructions are typically given for the child's protection, well-being, and moral development.

3.3 Respecting the Mother's Wisdom and Experience

Verses: Proverbs 23:22; Proverbs 4:1-2
  • Mothers often possess valuable life experience, discernment, and spiritual insight.
  • Daughters benefit greatly from heeding their mother's counsel and learning from her journey.

4. The Daughter's Response: Obedience and Respect

4.1 The Call to Obedience for Daughters

Verses: Colossians 3:20; Ephesians 6:1
  • Daughters, like all children, are specifically called to obey their parents in all things.
  • This obedience is a demonstration of faith, submission to God's order, and love.

4.2 Cultivating a Spirit of Respect and Submission

Verses: 1 Peter 2:13-14; Romans 13:5
  • Obedience should stem from a willing heart and a respectful attitude, not merely outward compliance.
  • Developing respect for authority within the family prepares one for respecting other God-ordained authorities.

4.3 The Long-Term Benefits of Filial Obedience

Verses: Ephesians 6:2-3; Proverbs 22:6
  • Obedience to parents leads to a blessed life, wisdom, and favor with God and man.
  • It helps to shape character, instill discipline, and prepare daughters for future responsibilities and relationships.