Murder Begins Long Before a Life Is Taken

Most people read the sixth commandment—"You shall not murder"—and immediately think, Well, I've never killed anyone, so I'm doing pretty well on this one.

But Jesus refuses to let us stop there.

The Hebrew word used in Exodus 20 refers specifically to murder—the unjust taking of human life—not every instance of killing. Throughout Scripture we see that there is a difference between murder and justified killing, such as self-defense or warfare. But the deeper question is this: Why does God take murder so seriously?

Because God is the Author of life.

Every human being carries immeasurable value because every human being was created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Life isn't valuable because of age, ability, social status, or accomplishments. It is valuable because it belongs to God.

That means every person you encounter—regardless of their background, beliefs, or mistakes—is someone made by God and for His glory.

But then Jesus does something shocking.

In the Sermon on the Mount, He takes the commandment far beyond our actions and into our hearts.

"You have heard that it was said... 'You shall not murder.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment." (Matthew 5:21-22)

Jesus isn't saying that all anger is sinful. There are things in this world that should make us angry—evil, injustice, abuse, and oppression. Even the Apostle Paul writes, "Be angry and do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26).

The problem isn't righteous anger.

The problem is unresolved anger.

When resentment, bitterness, or hatred begins to grow inside us, we stop seeing people as image-bearers of God. Instead, we define them by their failures. We reduce them to what they've done to us. In our hearts, we've stripped away the value that God placed upon them.

John puts it bluntly:

"Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer." (1 John 3:15)

That's a sobering thought.

Murder doesn't always begin with violence. Sometimes it begins with bitterness.

That's why Paul continues in Ephesians:

"Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." (Ephesians 4:26-27)

One of the greatest lies we believe is that time heals broken relationships. Often, time simply hardens wounded hearts.

Unresolved offenses become demonic real estate.

The enemy loves division. He thrives where forgiveness is absent and relationships remain fractured.

So what do we do?

Jesus gives us the answer:

"First go and be reconciled..." (Matthew 5:24)

Notice He doesn't say, "Wait until they apologize."

He says, Go.

Take the first step.

Why? Because that's exactly what Jesus did for us. While we were still sinners, Christ pursued us. He initiated reconciliation through His death and resurrection.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to do the same.

So today, ask the Holy Spirit a simple question: Is there anyone I'm still holding in the prison of my heart?

Don't give the enemy a foothold.

Choose forgiveness.

Pursue reconciliation.

Because preserving life isn't just about keeping blood off our hands—it's about keeping love alive in our hearts.