A Scripture Catechism
in the
Method of the Assembly's

by Matthew Henry

Q. 66. What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment?
A. The reason annexed to the filth commandment is a promise of long life and prosperity (as far as it shall serve for God's glory and their own good) to all such as keep this commandment.

1. Is there a gracious promise made to those that honour their parents? Yes: it is the first commandment with promise, Eph. 6:2. Is long life promised? Yes: That thy days may be long in the land. Is outward prosperity promised? Yes: That it may be well with thee, Eph. 6:3. Are temporal blessings promised to good people? Yes: Godliness hath the promise of the life that now is, 1 Tim. 4:8. And are they promised particularly to pious and dutiful children? Yes: My son, forget not my law, but let thine heart keep my commandments; for length of days, and long life, and peace shall they add to thee, Prov. 3: 1, 2.

2. Do all good children prosper in this world? No: for all things come alike to all, Eccl. 9:2. But are they most likely to prosper? Yes: for by humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, honour and life, Prov. 22:4. Shall they prosper as far as is for God's glory? Yes: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me, Ps. 1:15. And as far as is for their own good? Yes: for we read of those whom God sent into captivity for their good, Jer. 24:5. But shall good children live for ever in, the heavenly Canaan? Yes: there their inheritance shall be for ever, Ps. 37:18. And are disobedient children often punished in this life? Yes: as Absalom that was hanged in an oak, 2 Sam. 18:9.