How does Exodus 21:14 connect with the commandment "You shall not murder"? The Sixth Commandment in a Sentence • Exodus 20:13: “You shall not murder.” • Short, absolute, and universal—God forbids the intentional taking of innocent human life. Zooming In: Exodus 21:14 • Exodus 21:14: “If, however, someone acts willfully against his neighbor to kill him by treachery, you are to take him from My altar and put him to death.” • Given immediately after God’s instructions about accidental killing (vv. 12-13), verse 14 addresses deliberate, premeditated murder. • Even sanctuary at the altar cannot shield the guilty; justice must be carried out. How the Two Passages Interlock • Commandment gives the principle—life is sacred. • Exodus 21:14 shows the application—premeditated murder violates that principle so severely that the murderer forfeits his own life. • Together they reveal God’s character: – He values human life (Genesis 9:6). – He distinguishes intent (Numbers 35:16-21). – He upholds just retribution (Romans 13:4). Key Truths We Learn • Intent matters: willful, treacherous killing is singled out. • Sanctuary cannot override justice: holiness never excuses sin. • Capital punishment in Israel underscored life’s worth—bloodshed requires redress (Deuteronomy 19:11-13). • The commandment is not mere moral advice; it carries enforceable legal weight. Practical Takeaways for Today • Value every person’s life as God-given and precious. • Guard the heart; murder begins with anger and hatred (Matthew 5:21-22). • Support justice that distinguishes between intent and accident yet never trivializes loss of life. • Remember God’s mercy in Christ for repentant sinners; even murderers can find forgiveness (1 John 1:7). Additional Supporting Passages • Genesis 4:8-10 – First murder shows life’s sacredness and God’s response. • Numbers 35:9-34 – Cities of refuge clarify accidental vs. intentional killing. • Psalm 11:5 – “The LORD hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.” • 1 John 3:15 – “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” |
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