Bible verses for children
Children and carers share responsibilities.
Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Ephesians 6:1 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Children are asked to respond respectfully to parents in the Lord. The passage also gives adults duties of caring guidance. No instruction requires a child to obey something harmful or keep unsafe secrets.
Follow a safe household instruction, and tell a trusted adult if an instruction makes you unsafe.
Talk about it
Who can help when a household instruction feels harmful or confusing?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
Ephesians 6:1–4 addresses children and then fathers, warning against provoking children and calling for nurturing instruction. Read both responsibilities together, never using the first verse to excuse abuse.
Read together · Ephesians 6:1–4
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 be well with you, and you may live long on the earth.” You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.
A simple prayer +
God, help families practise safe, respectful and caring relationships. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.