Go! and Honour Mothers - a Mothering Sunday Message
Introduction
Today is Mothering Sunday, a time to reflect on the gift of mothers and the role of nurturing in our lives. It is a day to celebrate, appreciate, and honour the mothers, grandmothers, spiritual mothers, and all who nurture others in the love of Christ. As we explore God’s Word today, we will consider the biblical call to honour mothers, the example of godly mothers, and how this all points us to the ultimate love of God in Christ Jesus.
Motherhood is not just a biological role—it is a divine calling. It is about nurturing, guiding, and loving others in a way that reflects the very heart of God. Whether you are a mother, have a mother, or know a mother, this message applies to you. Today, we will examine the biblical principles of honour, wisdom, and divine love that shape our understanding of motherhood.
1. GO! AND HONOUR YOUR MOTHER
Exodus 20:12 (NLT): "Honour your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you."
The command to honour parents is one of the Ten Commandments, given directly by God to His people. The Hebrew word for “honour” is kabed, which conveys a sense of weightiness, value, and deep respect. To honour one’s mother is not merely an act of obedience but an expression of gratitude and recognition of her God-given role.
This commandment is unique because it is the first commandment with a promise: "Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you." This promise does not mean a guaranteed lifespan extension, but rather a life lived in God’s order and blessing. Honouring parents creates a culture of respect, stability, and divine favour.
Jesus Himself affirmed this commandment in Matthew 15:4, challenging those who neglected it in the name of religious tradition.
Matthew 15:4 (NLT): “For instance, God says, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.’”
In this passage, Jesus directly references Exodus 20:12 and Exodus 21:17 to rebuke the Pharisees for their hypocrisy.
Exodus 20:12 (NLT): “Honour your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
Exodus 21:17 (NLT): “Anyone who kidnaps someone and either sells them or still has them when they are caught must die.”
The Pharisees had created traditions, like the practice of Corban found in Mark 7:11-13), which allowed people to declare their possessions as dedicated to God, thereby excusing them from their duty to care for their parents.
Mark 7:11-13 (NLT): “But you say it is all right for people to say to their parents, ‘Sorry, I can’t help you. For I have vowed to give to God what I would have given to you.’ In this way, you let them disregard their needy parents. And so you cancel the word of God in order to hand down your own tradition. And this is only one example among many others.”
Jesus condemned this as a distortion of God's law—one that prioritised man-made rules over divine commandments. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, pointing out how they had allowed their religious traditions to override God’s clear commands.
Jesus’ criticism of the Pharisees points to a deeper issue: when tradition and personal gain override the love and care we are called to show others, particularly our parents, we distort the heart of God's law. This passage challenges us to examine our own lives—are there areas where we use religious activity or tradition to mask our neglect of the more important duties of love, care, and honour?
Lets return to Matthew 15:4 (NLT): “For instance, God says, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.’”
The Greek word used in Matthew 15:4 for "honour" is t?µ?? (timao), which means more than just verbal respect; it involves tangible acts of care and support. True honour is not lip service—it is lived out in love, responsibility, and obedience to God’s commands.
This verse reminds us that God takes honouring parents seriously, not as a suggestion, but as a command woven into the fabric of a godly life. It challenges us to examine our hearts—are we honouring our parents in the way God desires, or are we making excuses that place our comfort above obedience?
Jesus called out the Pharisees for making excuses not to care for their parents under the guise of religious giving. This is a sobering reminder that honouring mothers is not just about words—it requires action, care, and appreciation.
Let us not be like the Pharisees, who manipulated God's Word to suit their convenience. Instead, let us genuinely honour our parents, not only in words but in deeds—caring for them, respecting them, and demonstrating Christ’s love through our actions.
As we honour our parents, we are also honouring God’s design for relationships and society. Conversely, we must actively seek justice and defend the dignity of those who are oppressed, as God’s heart is for the vulnerable and the hurting.
Illustration: A young man once asked his pastor how he could best honour his elderly mother who lived in a care home. The pastor replied, “Visit her. Call her. Show her that she is not forgotten. Honour is shown in love, not just in words.”
Consider the ways you can show honour. A heartfelt “thank you,” a note of appreciation, an act of service—these are all ways we express our gratitude for the mothers in our lives.
Think about the countless sacrifices a mother makes, often unnoticed. Late nights caring for a sick child, countless prayers whispered for her family, and the countless ways she puts the needs of others before her own.
Application: Honour your mother not just today, but throughout the year. If your mother has passed, honour her memory by living in a way that reflects her godly influence. If you have a strained relationship, seek reconciliation in Christ. If you know a mother who is struggling, be an encouragement to her.
“Honour is the language of love in action.” – Max Lucado
True honour is not just verbal; it is demonstrated through love in action. Just as God’s love is tangible and sacrificial, our honour for mothers should be expressed in consistent, meaningful ways that reflect God’s love.
2. GO! AND LEARN FROM GODLY MOTHERS
Proverbs 31:26-28 (NLT): "When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her."
The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 is an example of wisdom, kindness, and diligence. The Hebrew word for "kindness" here is chesed, which speaks of steadfast love and mercy—a reflection of God’s own nature. A godly mother does more than provide—she shapes lives with her wisdom and love.
We see examples of godly mothers in Scripture:
Hannah:
1 Samuel 1:27-28 (NLT): “I asked the Lord to give me this boy, and he has granted my request. Now I am giving him to the Lord, and he will belong to the Lord his whole life.” And they worshiped the Lord there.
This passage captures the heart of Hannah’s faith and devotion. Hannah, who had been barren, fervently prayed for a child, vowing that if God granted her request, she would dedicate the child to His service. The Hebrew word for asked (sha’al - ??????) is significant because it reflects both Hannah’s deep desire and her recognition that her child ultimately belongs to God.
When God answered her prayer and gave her Samuel (whose name means “asked of God”), Hannah did not cling to him selfishly. Instead, she fulfilled her vow, surrendering him to serve at the Tabernacle under Eli. This act of faith demonstrates that true motherhood is not about ownership but stewardship—entrusting children to God and raising them in His ways.
Like Hannah, parents today are called to dedicate their children to the Lord, not just in a ceremonial way but by raising them in the fear and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). It is a reminder that children are gifts from God, given for His purposes, not just our own aspirations.
Whether you are a parent, a grandparent, or a spiritual mentor, pray for the next generation. Raise them in the knowledge of God, and, like Hannah, trust that God’s plans for them are greater than our own.
Mary:
Luke 1:38 (NLT): “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.”
This powerful response from Mary reveals the depth of her faith and obedience to God. Here, she is faced with an unimaginable calling—bearing the Son of God, a task that would bring personal challenge, social stigma, and immense responsibility. Yet, in this moment, Mary demonstrates a remarkable willingness to submit to God’s will despite her fears and uncertainties.
The Greek word for "servant" (doule, d????) reflects a deep sense of humble submission, and it is important to note that this word is not one of subjugation, but of willing surrender to God’s purposes. Mary’s response is the very model of faithful discipleship: “Let it be to me according to Your Word”. Her words echo the absolute trust in God’s plan, even when that plan is difficult to understand and may lead to suffering.
Mary’s response stands in stark contrast to our human instinct to control our circumstances. Her humility reminds us that faith often requires letting go of our own desires and aligning ourselves with the purposes of God, even when it is uncomfortable or costly. It is a call for us to embrace God's will for our lives, not as a passive act but as a joyful, active surrender to His sovereign plan.
Like Mary, we are called to respond to God's calling with trust and obedience. When God's plans seem difficult or challenging, will we, too, say, "I am the Lord’s servant"? Will we trust that His ways are higher than ours and that His plan is always for our good and His glory? Mary's surrender invites us to a deeper faith and a life fully devoted to God's purposes.
LOIS and EUNICE:
2 Timothy 1:5 (NLT): “I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.”
In this letter, Paul praises Timothy’s heritage of faith, which was passed down from his grandmother Lois to his mother Eunice and then to him. This highlights the importance of generational faith—how faith in God can be nurtured and cultivated over time, influencing not just one person but generations.
The Greek word for "genuine" (anupokritos - ???p????t??), which Paul uses to describe Timothy's faith, means without hypocrisy, sincere, real. This is a profound affirmation of Timothy's faith; it is not a faith based on outward appearances or religious rituals, but a deep, heartfelt conviction that has stood the test of time.
Paul's words also remind us that mothers and grandmothers often have a powerful influence in shaping the faith of the next generation. Lois and Eunice exemplified a quiet yet steadfast faith in the Lord, and their example laid the foundation for Timothy’s own relationship with God. Their influence demonstrates that godly motherhood is about more than just teaching—it’s about modeling a life of faith that others can follow.
Whether you are a mother, grandmother, or spiritual mentor, take courage in knowing that your faith can have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those around you. Like Lois and Eunice, let your faith be genuine, sincere, and visible in all aspects of life. The legacy of faith you build today can carry on for generations to come.
Illustration: A Christian mother once said, “My greatest joy is not in my children’s success but in knowing they walk with the Lord.” This echoes the heart of every godly parent.
Godly mothers are not perfect, but they persist in prayer, in faith, and in love. They know that their role is not just to raise children but to raise disciples of Christ.
Mothers, embrace your God-given role with joy. Teach, nurture, and disciple your children in the ways of Christ. Everyone else, learn from the wisdom and faithfulness of godly mothers and spiritual mothers in your life. Seek out mentors who can guide you in your walk with God.
“A mother’s prayer is a child’s pathway to God.” – Charles Spurgeon
A mother’s intercession can shape a child’s destiny. Just as Hannah’s prayers changed the course of Samuel’s life, the prayers of a godly mother provide spiritual covering and guidance for her children.
3. GO! AND KNOW GOD’S MOTHERLY LOVE
Isaiah 66:13 (NLT): "I will comfort you there in Jerusalem as a mother comforts her child."
While God is our Father, He also expresses love in ways that reflect motherly care. The Hebrew word for "comfort" (nacham) means to console, to bring relief, to tenderly care. God’s love is nurturing, protective, and unwavering.
“God’s love is the safest place a soul can rest.” – Timothy Keller
Just as a mother provides a place of security and warmth for her child, God’s love is the ultimate refuge for our souls. We find true peace and rest when we abide in Him.
Conclusion: A Call to Action and Invitation to Faith
On this Mothering Sunday, let us:
1. Honour our mothers and all who nurture us in the love of Christ.
2. Learn from the example of godly mothers and spiritual mentors.
3. Rest in the motherly love of God, which is always available to us.
But above all, let us remember that true love is found in Jesus Christ. He died for our sins, He rose again, and He invites us into a relationship with Him.
Romans 10:9 (NLT): "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
This verse is a powerful and clear declaration of the Gospel. Paul outlines the essential steps for salvation: confession and belief. The word "Lord" (Kyrios in Greek) signifies sovereign authority, a recognition that Jesus is not merely a teacher or a prophet, but the risen King—the Lord of all creation. To confess Jesus as Lord is to acknowledge His absolute authority over every aspect of our lives, both here and in eternity.
The second key component is belief in the resurrection—the belief that God raised Jesus from the dead. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, the act by which God vindicates Jesus as the Messiah and demonstrates His power over sin and death. Without the resurrection, Christianity collapses. Belief in this event is not just intellectual assent but involves a heartfelt trust that God’s power can transform us as it did Jesus.
This verse serves as a call to action: salvation is not merely about saying the right words but about an inner transformation—believing deeply and publicly declaring Jesus as Lord. This public confession is an outward reflection of an inward change and is essential for our salvation. The promise is clear: you will be saved. This is not a vague hope or uncertain possibility; it is a guarantee for all who truly declare Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection.
If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, today is the day. Come to Him, and experience the love that surpasses all understanding.
If you have already made this declaration, are you living in the reality of His Lordship? Is there any part of your life that is still not surrendered to Him?
Let this verse remind us that salvation is both a moment and a journey—a moment of confession, followed by a lifelong journey of living under the authority of Jesus.
A Final Reflection: Just as a mother never gives up on her child, God never gives up on you. His arms are open wide—will you come home to Him today? And as much as we honour and celebrate mothers, let us never forget that our perfect Heavenly Parent is Father God, who loves us with an everlasting love. He is always faithful, always present, and always ready to receive us as His beloved children.
