Hands Off, Heart Right July 19, 2026 Elwyn Johnston Exodus 20:13 Verse of the Week: “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.” Romans 12:18 “murder” – ratsach – unlawful, unauthorized killing. 1. Every life matters to God “God created us in His own image” Genesis 1:27 “If anyone takes a human life, that person’s life will also be taken by human hands. For God made human beings in His own image.” Genesis 9:6 “you are a chosen people…a people for God’s own possession” 1 Peter 2:9 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 “when sin is finished, it brings forth death.” James 1:15 2. Let’s allow God to do a heart check Matthew 5:21 - 26 “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone Raca, you are in danger of being brought before the court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell. Matthew 5:21 & 22 “anger” – continual anger, resentment. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” Proverbs 18:21 “Raca” – empty-headed, idiot “fool” – moros – morally worthless. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 “Let your speech be always full of grace, seasoned with salt” Colossians 4:6 “If I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked one, you shall surely die,’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his way, that wicked person shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand.” Ezekiel 33:8 “if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.” Matthew 5:23 & 24 “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.” Romans 12:18
