July 12, 2026
Assigned Scripture
Exodus 20:13
13 “You must not murder.
Matthew 5:21-24
21 “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’[a] 22 But I say, if you are even angry with someone,[b] you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot,[c] you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone,[d] you are in danger of the fires of hell.[e]
23 “So if you are presenting a sacrifice[f] at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, 24 leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.
Colossians 3:12-14
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
Group Response
Most who read the 6th commandment would be sure they’ve never broken it and they haven’t. But read it again, this time as an invitation into a life and a community that not only tolerates our differences, but celebrates them. Like every other commandment, this one has three levels; the highest is what everyone wants. We at CWC have an honest chance of reaching it.
Discussion Questions
1. What does “no killing” mean to you? What does it forbid? What is permitted?
2. What are some common “differences” that divide people within the Church? Why are the people closest to us often the ones who give us the most trouble?
3. Is there someone in your life who is hard to get along with? What do you think God is asking you to do about it?
4. Who is someone that you’re walking beside to strengthen them, heal them?