The Sixth Commandment

The Sixth Commandment

Exodus 20:13

“You shall not murder.”

Of all the Ten Commandments, the sixth may seem like the easiest to obey. Have you killed anyone today? If not, it might look like you’ve succeeded.

“Not so fast,” said Jesus.

Obeying the letter of the law is one thing, but what about obeying the heart of the law? Let me explain.

When Jesus began teaching throughout the countryside, the religious leaders noticed that His teaching was different from theirs. He had a fresh way of looking at God and His law. In fact, they even accused Him of rejecting it. But Jesus replied:

Matthew 5:17

“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.”

We know we are supposed to obey the law, but how do you fulfill it? Jesus was teaching that obedience is more than outward compliance—the real goal is a changed heart.

He knew there were people who could find ways to keep the law externally, but still harbor anger and bitterness inside. To Jesus, the sixth commandment meant more than simply not killing someone. You could commit murder in your heart by hating or resenting another person.

Jesus came to teach us a new way to relate to God—not through fear and legalism, but through faith and love. To Him, the sixth commandment isn’t just about behavior. It’s about having a heart that loves others and seeks to please God.

So, have you obeyed the sixth commandment today? Or, better yet, have you fulfilled it? One way to begin is by praying for the person you find hardest to love. That’s what pleases God.

Matthew 5:44–45

“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.”