Re:Verse passage –Exodus 20:13 (day five)
You shall not murder. It seems to be pretty simple and straightforward. So, why include it? Isn’t this a given by any moral code? Can anybody argue that the unlawful killing of an innocent life is ok? Don’t we all know at some level, killing is wrong?
The sixth commandment helps teach us about God, and ourselves. We learn about God’s sovereignty. As the creator and giver of life, He is sovereign over life and death. Killing someone displaces God from His throne and this role, and thus inserts the human murderer on the throne- Not where man was designed to be. God is serious about His sovereignty.
The sixth commandment is also a sincere affirmation and encouragement of human life. If humans were not important to God, then why have this commandment? In fact, this commandment serves as a compliment to the human race. Each personally and intricately created person has been made in God’s image. Each life is precious and significant.
This is why killing is a big deal to God. Lots at stake, lots to learn!
I learned some new insights reading your post. Good response to euthanasia
Understanding how God views murder is crucial. I do think murder is not just physical in nature but also the condition of one’s heart toward another. A sinful heart, no doubt, will lead to sinful thoughts, sinful actions and sinful behaviors toward other humans. We should be aware of the conditions of our hearts!