Day 13 - Questions for Reflection on the Fifth Commandment

The Ten Commandments
Day 13 - Questions for Reflection on the Fifth Commandment - Part 4
Jul 30, 2005

"Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." (Exodus 20: 12)

Concerning your treatment of those God has placed on an equal standing with you; that is, your neighbors, friends, fellow-workers, and Christian brothers and sisters:

The Duties of Equals are, to regard the dignity and worth of each other, in giving honor to go before another; and to rejoice in each other's gifts and advancement as their own. (taken from the Larger Catechism of the Presbyterian Church - Answer to Question 131)

Question yourself:
1. Do you have as much respect and equal regard for your neighbors as you do for yourself - or more so?
2. Do you consider their rights of equal importance to yours?
3. Do you treat them as having as much dignity and worth as yourself - or more so? Are you glad when they receive recognition, display talents or, in general, do well? Do you help them develop their gifts?

The Sins of Equals are, besides the neglect of the duties required, the undervaluing of the worth, envying the gifts, grieving at the advancement or prosperity one of another; and usurping preeminence one over another. (taken from the Larger Catechism of the Presbyterian Church - Answer to Question 132)

Question yourself:
1. Do you belittle those God has placed on an equal standing with you? verbally "tear them down"? Secretly relish the thought that you are better, holier, or more gifted than they?
2. Are you disturbed or resentful because you do not have the talents, position, prestige, or possessions of your neighbor? of you Christian brother or sister?
3. As a working man or professional, are you plagued by resentment when your fellow co-worker receives special commendation or advancement in pay or position, and you do not receive the same?

-questions from Lauxstermann"s The Believer's Delight, p 71-2