Definition:
The phrase "a commandment with a promise" refers to the specific commandment within the Ten Commandments that includes a promise of blessing for those who obey it. This is found in the context of the Fifth Commandment, which emphasizes honoring one's parents.

Biblical Reference:
The concept of a commandment with a promise is primarily derived from Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16, where the commandment to honor one's father and mother is given. The Apostle Paul reiterates this in the New Testament, highlighting its unique nature among the commandments.

Exodus 20:12 :
"Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you."

Deuteronomy 5:16 :
"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you."

Ephesians 6:1-3 :
"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 go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.'"

The Promise:
The promise associated with this commandment is twofold: longevity and well-being in the land given by God. This promise underscores the importance of family structure and respect within the community of God's people. It suggests that societal stability and personal prosperity are linked to the respect and honor given to parental figures.

Theological Significance:
The inclusion of a promise with this commandment highlights the value God places on family relationships and the social order. It serves as a bridge between the commandments that focus on one's relationship with God and those that govern interpersonal relationships. By attaching a promise, God emphasizes the tangible benefits of living in accordance with His statutes.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Israelite society, the family was the fundamental unit of social and religious life. Honoring one's parents was not only a matter of personal piety but also a means of ensuring the continuity of cultural and religious traditions. The promise of a long life in the land reflects the agrarian context of the Israelites, where land inheritance and family lineage were crucial.

Application in Christian Ethics:
In Christian teaching, this commandment is often seen as foundational for understanding the broader principle of respect for authority and the importance of family. It is frequently cited in discussions about family dynamics, child-rearing, and the responsibilities of children toward their aging parents. The promise attached to the commandment serves as a reminder of the blessings that come from living in harmony with God's design for family life.

Conclusion:
The commandment to honor one's parents, distinguished by its accompanying promise, remains a significant element of biblical teaching, reflecting God's concern for the well-being of individuals and communities through the maintenance of respectful and loving family relationships.