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“Thou shalt not murder.” (Exodus 20:13)
Part One
Across the centuries, willful murder called by any other name is nevertheless equally reprehensible. Nothing mankind can do to re-label depravity can alter its sinful nature. This is why God-fearing doctors and nurses have consistently refused to participate in the unthinkable act of taking an innocent unborn child’s life! Since God alone knows the actual moment when each life begins – it has never been man’s prerogative to assume our Creator’s role. He alone decides when life is given and when we are to die (see Hebrews 9:27). Murder is not a part of His plan.
There is – “A time to give birth and a time to die…”
(Ecclesiastes 3:2)
There may be emergencies related to birth when either the mother or a child’s life is in danger. In such cases, prayer must be earnestly offered for divine guidance. However, in normal childbirth, determining if and when the unborn baby should live, or die is simply not man’s choice to make. This is why, in non-emergency medical situations, requesting doctors or nurses to perform the terminal act of abortion is actually paying them – to commit a loathsome sin!
Part Two
Murder is the permanent irreversible crime of intentionally taking another person’s – life! When this horrific act is committed as the result of one’s previous immorality, then sadly the second sin cannot cover-up their first indiscretion. Sin is never anyone’s right, however, it is always an available choice. Therefore, unless sincere confession is made and God’s forgiveness is sought and received, sin’s tragedy is only compounded by one’s lack of sincere repentance.
The Bible says, “Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.” (Psalm 32:2)
Do you remember when David arranged for Uriah’s death? He committed the sin of murder in his attempt to hide his immoral affair with Bathsheba. (see 2 Samuel 11). History reveals that David was required by God to become totally honest about both closely interwoven sins! Today, sexual immorality that results in the murder of an innocent unborn child is the same interwoven sin that brought God’s judgement on King David. Yes, God loved him but He also “…disciplines those He loves…” (Hebrews 12:6)
Part Three
Killing is differentiated from murder in the Scriptures. You are allowed to defend yourself, others, and even your nation. The Lord Jesus spoke about the world’s violence declaring, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars…” (Matthew 24:6a) History’s many conflicts have usually been caused by human greed and pride. The need for national defense became necessary because of mankind’s sinful spiritual condition!
As an example of approved killing, God specifically led both David and Jonathan to fight victoriously against Israel’s enemies. (see 1 Samuel 14:14) He also clearly commanded both Moses and Joshua to fight for His people.
“… you shall strike all the men in it [the city] with the edge of the sword.”
(Deuteronomy 20:13)
Biblically, in contrast to national defense, planning for anyone’s own personal reasons to kill is – murder! That has never changed, and God still condemns it. A free nation’s laws are intended to protect the innocent and Christians are therefore called to help provide direction for their own society’s moral and ethical thinking and values. Referring to His disciples’ future role, the Lord Jesus explained, “You are the light of the world…” (Matthew 5:14a)
Part Four
In today’s highly secular climate, a relevant part of our Christian witness is to recognize and stand against all degrees of murder. In that regard, accidentally taking someone’s life has always been treated less severely in the Bible (see Deuteronomy 19:4-14). We are called to resolutely stand on the side of honesty, integrity, and mercy. If you feel that God’s specific guidance is not clear enough for you to follow His leading in making a personal decision – then ask and the Holy Spirit will not be silent!
He sovereignly promised, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.”
(Psalm 32:8)
In addition to murder, consider the heartache of rape or a mother’s likely death while giving birth in an extreme medical situation. Remember that God always cares and is living in us as His children. When such hard times come, sincere prayer requesting His leadership becomes our moral guide. Remember that, “Your Father already knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:8)
By Billie Hanks Jr.
