What is required in the Fifth Commandment?

The Fifth Commandment, as expressed in the Westminster Shorter Catechism, specifically emphasizes the importance of honoring and obeying one's parents and other authorities. This commandment is rooted in the biblical instruction found in Exodus 20:12, which states, "Honor your father and your mother." The commandment underscores a divinely ordained structure of authority where respect for parents and civil authorities is crucial for social order and familial harmony.

Honoring parents involves showing them respect, gratitude, and care throughout their lives, as well as listening to their guidance during one's upbringing. Furthermore, the commandment extends to respecting other authorities, including government and spiritual leaders, as a way to uphold the integrity and order within society. Such respect is foundational for promoting peace and stability in both family and community settings.

In contrast, the other options engage with different aspects of Christian ethics and practice but do not pertain directly to the requirements of the Fifth Commandment. Loving one's neighbor is a crucial commandment but relates more to interpersonal relationships beyond familial obligations. Keeping the Sabbath holy deals with the sanctification of time for worship and rest, while confessing sins regularly pertains to personal repentance and maintaining one's relationship with God. Thus, while all the choices reflect important Christian principles, the