The Bible, specifically in the fifth of the Ten Commandments, states: “Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee” (PP 308.1). This commandment is foundational and is described as "the first commandment with promise" (2T 80.1). The obligation to honor parents is not limited to childhood but extends throughout a person's entire life. According to Ellen White's writings, honoring parents involves several key aspects: * **Respect and Obedience:** "He who rejects the rightful authority of his parents is rejecting the authority of God. The fifth commandment requires children not only to yield respect, submission, and obedience to their parents, but also to give them love and tenderness" (PP 308.2). * **Care and Support:** Children are called "to lighten their cares, to guard their reputation, and to succor and comfort them in old age" (PP 308.2). * **Lifelong Duty:** This responsibility does not end when a child reaches adulthood. "There is no period in life when children are excused from honoring their parents. This solemn obligation is binding upon every son and daughter" (2T 80.1). * **Consequences of Disobedience:** The writings warn that "Children who dishonor and disobey their parents, and disregard their advice and instructions, can have no part in the earth made new... No commandment breaker can inherit the kingdom of heaven" (1T 497.2). In turn, parents have a sacred responsibility to represent God to their children. "Great is the honor and the responsibility placed upon fathers and mothers, in that they are to stand in the place of God to their children" (MH 375.2). Their character and training methods are meant to interpret God's love and will to their children.