Kingdom Ethics and the Ten Commandments Today
Relevance for the Church, Culture Wars, Law vs. Grace, and Christian Discipleship
This chapter focuses on the Sixth Commandment — “You shall not murder” (Exod. 20:13) — and its application for human dignity, justice, and ethical decision-making in contemporary society.
1. Introduction
The Sixth Commandment, one of the clearest expressions of God’s holiness and justice, states:
“You shall not murder.”
— Exodus 20:13 (NRSV)
At its heart, this commandment reflects God’s respect for human life (Gen. 1:27) and establishes the moral foundation for social order. Kingdom ethics extend this principle beyond physical violence to issues like abortion, euthanasia, war, and systemic injustice, recognising the dignity of all human beings.
2. Historical and Cultural Context
2.1. Ancient Israel
- Life was sacred as a gift from God
- Murder was prohibited to maintain communal stability (Num. 35:16–21)
- Provision was made for cities of refuge as part of restorative justice (Num. 35:9–34)
2.2. Covenant Justice
The commandment reflects God’s character: justice, mercy, and protection of the vulnerable (Deut. 27:24). Israel’s society was structured to protect life, ensuring that violence was neither glorified nor trivialised.
3. Jesus and the Expansion of the Sixth Commandment
Jesus intensifies the commandment by addressing heart-level attitudes:
“You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder’; and whoever murders will be liable to judgement. But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgement.”
— Matthew 5:21–22
Kingdom ethics call believers to address anger, hatred, and dehumanisation, not just overt physical acts.
4. Contemporary Ethical Issues
4.1. Abortion and the Sanctity of Life
The commandment raises urgent questions about the protection of unborn life. Kingdom ethics affirm:
- Life begins at conception (Psalm 139:13–16)
- Society has a moral duty to protect the vulnerable
- Christians are called to compassionate engagement in public discourse
4.2. Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
- Life is God’s gift, even amidst suffering (Job 1:21)
- Kingdom discipleship requires balancing compassion with the inviolability of life
- Medical and ethical decisions should respect human dignity
4.3. Violence, War, and Justice
- Christians are called to pursue peace (Matt. 5:9)
- Self-defence and protection of the innocent may be morally permissible
- Structural injustices, such as poverty and oppression, are forms of indirect harm that violate the spirit of the commandment
5. The Spirit and Respect for Life
The Holy Spirit transforms hearts to cherish life, producing:
- Compassion (Gal. 5:22)
- Peacemaking (Rom. 12:18)
- Mercy toward the vulnerable (James 1:27)
Kingdom ethics guide believers to actively protect life in personal, social, and political spheres.
6. Practical Applications
6.1. Personal Ethics
- Cultivate anger management, forgiveness, and reconciliation
- Reject gossip, slander, and dehumanising speech
- Advocate for life-affirming choices in family and community
6.2. Social and Political Responsibility
- Support laws and policies that protect the vulnerable
- Engage in charitable work that reduces suffering
- Encourage non-violent conflict resolution
7. Conclusion
The Sixth Commandment remains profoundly relevant. Kingdom ethics extend beyond avoiding physical murder to fostering life-affirming attitudes, mercy, and justice. Christians are called to uphold dignity and protect life, reflecting God’s character in every sphere of society.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
— Proverbs 31:8–9