You must not murder.  Exodus 20:13

When asked if they’re a good person, many people will compare themselves to this commandment alone.  “I’ve never killed anyone!“



Why do we think we can excuse anything else as long as we haven’t broken this commandment? Perhaps because we think murder is one of the worst things someone can do. Or perhaps because we think it’s the easiest commandment to obey.

But let’s look at what Jesus said about this commandment. 

You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’  But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.  Matthew 5:21-22

Suddenly this commandment doesn’t seem quite so easy to keep.

A few verses later, Jesus flips this upside down and tells us what we must do rather than what we mustn’t do.  

You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy.  But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!  Matthew 5:43-44

As is often the case, Jesus’ answer is love. Love your friends.  Love your enemies. Love those who are hard to love. Love those who reach out and those who are afraid of you.  Jesus says to love them all.

And that is the heart of this commandment. Don’t harm anyone, either in word, thought, or deed.  Instead, love them.  Deliberately love them.
 

Keep Seeking the Kingdom!

   Heather Penner
   Youth Ministries Director