Q66. What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment?
The reason annexed to the fifth 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.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Deuteronomy 5:16
“Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”
Ephesians 6:2–3
“Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”
Commentary — Thomas Vincent (1674)
Question 1. What is the promise itself, which is annexed for the encouragement of those that keep this fifth commandment?
Answer. The promise itself, which is annexed for the encouragement of them that keep this fifth commandment is, the promise of long life, and this is the first particular commandment with promise: "Honour thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee", Eph. 6:2. "Honour thy father and mother (which is the first commandment with promise)."
Question 2. How is the fifth commandment the first commandment with promise, when there is a promise of God's shewing mercy unto thousands, annexed unto the second commandment?