Reader questions and feedback on character issues. Also refer to honesty, courage, responsibility, honor, reliability, service, stealing, cheating, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions
Answers to Readers' Questions on Character:
Extremes in Good Character
The following 1 comments and questions have been sent in. They are listed according to date.
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Honoring and obeying aren't the same
Question
March 18, 2009
I have a comment for your article. You stated that:
"Religiously, the 10 Commandments say to honor your parents. But there was a recent news story of a 17 year old boy whose father demanded he join him on a crime spree. The dilemma for the boy was whether to obey his father or the law. After a gun battle in which a policeman was killed, the boy and his father were both sentenced to life in prison."
The Commandment you refer to does indeed say to "honor" your parents, but it does not say to "obey" your parents. There is a huge difference. I think it imply in any way that a moral commandment is responsible for this young man's bad decision is offensive when you've taken it out of context.
I appreciate you reading my comment, though.
Thanks.
Sonya - USA
17466
Answer
You brought up a good point. Honoring does not necessarily mean obeying.
Although the Commandment only says to honor your parents, Ephesians 6:1-3 states: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' - which is the first commandment with a promise - 'that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth'."
On looking at my example, I don't think it is a good case concerning extreme character traits, so I removed it from the article.
Thanks for your feedback.
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