Honoring God Through the Three Estates
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Authority and hierarchy, structure and order: these are the things protected by God’s holy Law, the Fourth Commandment, “Honor your father and your mother.” This commandment is more than just a rule for children; it is the foundation for how we honor all authority established by God. Martin Luther, in his Large Catechism, explains this commandment by referencing what he calls the Three Estates—the Family, the Church, and the Government. In each of these, God has placed people in authority for our good, and in honoring them, we ultimately honor Him.
In brief, this commandment reminds us of the order that God wills and creates for us in our interactions among ourselves and the protection that God grants to such things. If you find yourself in a position of authority, then you ought to use that authority in God-pleasing ways and for the promotion of order and benefit for those under that authority. And if you find yourself under an authority, then you ought to obey and seek the success of that authority so long as he or she does not require you to disobey God.
Find out more in this sermon from St. John's Lutheran Church of Oakes, ND!
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