Ephesians 6:3

that, &c. The Gr. is nearly verbatim from the LXX. of Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5. It is observable that the Apostle omits the last words of the original promise. Is not this on purpose, to dilate the reference to the utmost? The Sinaitic limitation was but a special application of a perpetual principle of Providence, illustrated, we may observe, in the remarkable instance of the durability of the Chinese race and empire in its "land." Not for Jews only, nor for Christians only, is the promise, but for man, with such modifications of the meaning of "the earth," or "land," as circumstances may bring.

To seek a reference here to "the better country, that is, the heavenly" (Hebrews 11:16), is a lawful and beautiful accommodation, but not in point as an interpretation.

mayest live Quite lit., "shalllive." And it may be so read. But usage makes it at least probable that the A. V. (and R.V., text) represent rightly the intention of the Greek.

Observe, in passing, the hint given in these verses of the familiarity of the Gentile converts of St Paul with the O.T., and of the Divine authority which, he takes it for granted, they recognized in the Decalogue. See further, Appendix H.