“From each man, too, I will demand an accounting for the life of his fellow man. ‘Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man.’”
Genesis 9:5-6
The Bible affirms the value of human life because we are created in God’s image. So, of course, murder is forbidden. But the range of meanings of the Hebrew word translated “murder” includes allowing someone’s death to happen by negligence. For Jesus, then, to expand His listeners’ understanding of the law to include being angry with their neighbors makes sense. If the definition already means causing death, whether through malice or because you just don’t care, wishing harm upon your neighbor (even if you don’t take steps to bring it about) falls right between the two.
As always, Jesus addresses the heart issue. For us to kill, hurt, curse, or despise someone to their face or in our heart, we must see them as less than God’s image. But we all have twisted and distorted that image in our own lives by sin. Not one of us is exempt.
Jesus’ answer to our hateful ways was to die for us, save us from sin, and restore us to our created glory. Then should we not, out of gratitude, show love and forgiveness for our neighbors?
As always, Jesus addresses the heart issue. For us to kill, hurt, curse, or despise someone to their face or in our heart, we must see them as less than God’s image. But we all have twisted and distorted that image in our own lives by sin. Not one of us is exempt.
Jesus’ answer to our hateful ways was to die for us, save us from sin, and restore us to our created glory. Then should we not, out of gratitude, show love and forgiveness for our neighbors?
Scripture Focus
Matthew 5:21-26
Insight
“‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” (Ephesians 4:26-27)
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 1-2
- Psalm 104
- Acts 28
