The Sixth Commandment: You Shall Not Murder
The sixth commandment is one of the most well-known commandments: “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). This commandment teaches us to value human life and to respect the dignity of every person. But what does it mean to not murder? And how can we apply this commandment in our daily lives?
The Sanctity of Life: The Bible affirms the sanctity of life, as all humans are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). Therefore, to murder is to violate the sacredness of life and to dishonor the Creator. We are called to cherish the gift of life and to protect it from harm.
The Definition of Murder: Murder is the intentional taking of another person’s life. It is not the same as killing in self-defense or in the defense of others. However, even in these situations, the taking of life should be a last resort and not done without careful consideration and prayer.
The Heart of the Matter: The sixth commandment not only prohibits the act of murder but also addresses the heart behind it. Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:21-22 that anyone who harbors anger or contempt towards another is guilty of violating this commandment. Therefore, we must guard our hearts against hatred and seek reconciliation with those whom we may have offended or wronged.
Application: As we seek to apply the sixth commandment in our daily lives, we should value and protect human life in all its forms. This includes defending the unborn, caring for the elderly, and standing up against injustices that threaten human dignity. We should also strive to cultivate love and forgiveness towards others, as Jesus taught us to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Conclusion: The sixth commandment teaches us to value and protect human life and to guard our hearts against hatred and anger. As we seek to apply this commandment in our daily lives, may we honor the sanctity of life and promote peace and justice in our communities.