Surrender to the Implanted Word (LD 40; James 1:19-21)

Reformed & Expository Preaching

We can think that we are doing well in terms of murder because we are not on death row, and we have never physically taken a life. The catechism emphasizes that murder begins in the heart through attitudes such as hatred, anger, belittling, and even silent desires to harm others. The catechism calls believers to honor our fellow citizens and humans as bearers of the image of God by guarding not only our actions but also our thoughts, words, and gestures. This deeper understanding exposes how destructive behavior towards others can manifest long before any violent act, urging Christians to avoid participating in harmful speech or actions and to promote peace and respect in all relationships.

The message further explores the root causes of murder, identifying anger and envy as the seeds that mature into murder, if nurtured, can grow into more destructive outcomes. Drawing from the wisdom of James, it warns against giving in to impulsive anger or harsh speech, encouraging believers to be “slow to speak and slow to anger.” True righteousness and Christian integrity are reflected in self-restraint and honoring God even amidst conflict. This teaching calls believers to recognize their brokenness and need for continual grace and transformation through the implanted word of God. This is the preaching of the Gospel, which empowers us to live out love, mercy, and patience consistent with the gospel.

The catechism also underscores the importance of guarding one’s body and life as a stewardship from God, balancing care for ourselves without idolizing the physical. It reminds believers that civil authorities have the God-given role to restrain and punish murder, promoting peace and justice in society. Yet internal transformation is paramount because sin is not merely in outward acts, but starts in the heart as we conceive it and give birth to it.

Ultimately, the teaching calls for a “sweet surrender” to God’s ongoing work in the gospel preaching. It is the means that overcomes the Recognizing that perfectly living out these commands is impossible in our fallen state, it emphasizes the continual need for the gospel’s transformative power through the Word. Christians are invited to humbly submit to God’s grace, receiving His wisdom and cultivating a spirit marked by gentleness, mercy, and joy even in suffering. This posture enables believers to reflect Christ’s peace and righteousness, waiting patiently upon Him, and seeking to glorify Him by living faithfully in love toward their neighbors as redeemed saints. It is in the gospel message that the reigning wickedness is put down, and we see the glorious call of heaven that we taste by the Spirit.