Honouring God by Honouring Human Life
Murder is one of the gravest sins because it defies the very nature of God and his creation. From a biblical standpoint, the sanctity of life is rooted in the fact that humans are made in God's image. This truth, woven throughout scripture, provides a foundation for why we must not take life lightly, whether through hatred, revenge, or other means. Let us explore key teachings from the Bible that guide us in valuing and protecting human life.
The Image of God in Man
In Genesis 9:6, we find a clear declaration of why murder is wrong: "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image."
This echoes the creation account in Genesis 1:26-27, where God created humanity
in his image, setting us apart with unique dignity and worth. To take another’s
life is to attack the image of God himself.
A Call to Love, Not Hate
Hatred is condemned in the Bible as a root of murder. Leviticus 19:17 instructs: "You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbour, lest you incur sin because of him."
Jesus further clarified who our neighbour is through the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). When asked, "Who is my neighbour?" the answer was simple: anyone God places in your path. This challenges us to act with compassion and love, even toward strangers or enemies.
No Room for Revenge
Revenge is not ours to take. Proverbs 25:21-22 encourages us to respond to our enemies with kindness:
"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you."
The apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 12:19: "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’"
Not Harming Ourselves
Preserving life also means not harming ourselves. Romans 13:11-14 warns against destructive behaviours and urges us to walk in the light of Christ. Self-inflicted harm, whether physical or spiritual, goes against God’s call to honour the life he has given us.
The Role of Government
God has given governments the responsibility to maintain justice and prevent murder. Romans 13:4 speaks of authorities as God’s servants, bearing the sword to punish wrongdoers and uphold righteousness.
Beyond the Act: Envy and
Hatred
The Bible also warns against the attitudes that lead to murder. Envy and hatred are destructive forces that must be addressed. Proverbs 14:30 states: "A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot."
In the New Testament, envy and hatred are listed among the works of the flesh (Romans 1:29; Galatians 5:19-21). James 1:20 reminds us that human anger does not produce the righteousness of God, and 1 John 3:15 equates hatred with murder: "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him."
A Call to Love Our Neighbour
The antidote to hatred and envy is love. Jesus taught this through the second greatest commandment:
"You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:39).
The Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12, calls us to treat others as we wish to be treated. Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:12 to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience—qualities that reflect God’s love.
Modern Applications in Canada
The sanctity of life applies to pressing ethical issues in our society, including abortion, euthanasia, and medical assistance in dying.
Abortion
Taking the life of an unborn child is a grave matter. Scriptures such as Psalm 139:13-16 affirm God’s intimate knowledge and care for us even before birth. Psalm 31:14-15 reminds us that our times are in God’s hands, not ours. At the same time, these truths can offer comfort to those grieving a miscarriage, as God’s covenant extends to believers and their children.
Euthanasia (Mercy-Killing)
There is an important distinction between passive and active euthanasia. The
former involves allowing the natural process of dying, while the latter
actively ends a life—an act that belongs to God alone.
Medical Assistance in Dying
The same biblical principles apply to this issue. Life is sacred, and our role is to trust in God’s timing and care, even in suffering.
Conclusion
Murder, in all its forms—whether through action, hatred, or neglect of love—contradicts God’s design for humanity. We are called to reflect his image by valuing life, loving our neighbours, and trusting him in all things. Let us strive to live in obedience to these truths, honouring the God who is the giver of life.
(Based on lessons given to the
Karen Zoom community on June 17 and July 8, 2021)