Lord’s Day 40
Q105. What does God want from you in the sixth commandment?
I must not put down, insult, hate, or kill my neighbor — not in my thoughts, my words, my looks, or my actions — and I must not go along with others who do. Instead, I must put away all desire for revenge. I must not harm or recklessly put myself in danger either. God also gave the government the power to protect people's lives.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Genesis 9:6
“Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.”
Leviticus 19:17–18
Matthew 5:21–22
“Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.”
Matthew 26:52
Proverbs 25:21–22
Matthew 18:35
“So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Romans 12:19
Ephesians 4:26
Matthew 4:7
Matthew 26:52
Romans 13:11–14
Genesis 9:6
“Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.”
Exodus 21:14
Romans 13:4
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What are some of the things the sixth commandment forbids besides killing?
- 2
Why does God care about our thoughts and not just our actions?
- 3
Have you ever felt angry and wanted revenge on someone who hurt you?
Illustration
A weed in a garden starts as a tiny seed underground before it ever breaks through the soil. Hatred, insults, and cruelty are like seeds that can grow into something worse. God wants us to pull up the weed of anger before it grows.
Application
The next time you feel angry at someone, stop and pray before you say or do anything. Ask God to help you let go of the anger. Because God forbids even the root of harm, bringing your anger to him early protects both you and the other person.