How should the church function in the midst of a pandemic when a government creates temporary restrictions that significantly limit in-person worship services? In relation to the COVID–19 pandemic, this article engages the question by looking for guidance to the Scriptures, the Reformed confessions, and some key Reformed theologians.

Hatred and murder are forbidden in the sixth commandment because murder is a sin against God. But is there a place for righteous hatred and lawful killing? 

Does the sixth commandment simply prohibit murder, or is there more to the commandment than this? How does this commandment fit with the Old Testament and Israel’s bloody history? What does this commandment mean for us today?

This article clarifies the meaning of the sixth commandment, and highlights the difference between killing and murder.