The Sixth Commandment (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Sixth Commandment (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Sixth Commandment is Section XXXIX of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

Sadler interprets the prohibition of murder broadly, including hatred, malice, revenge, and neglect of charity. The section also emphasizes peacemaking and compassion.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "Thou shalt do no murder." He further explains the section by saying, "Taking away the life of a fellow-creature from some bad motive, such as revenge, hatred, or desire of gain."

Theological Themes

• Sanctity of life
• Anger and hatred
• Charity
• Peacemaking

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• Exodus 20:13
• Matthew 5:21-22
• 1 John 3:15
• Ephesians 4:31
• Colossians 3:12-13
• 1 Peter 3:8

Anglican Context

This section belongs to Sadler's treatment of the baptismal promise to keep God's commandments. It is connected with the Decalogue in the Church Catechism and with the use of the commandments in Anglican moral and liturgical instruction. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Ten Commandments
• Church Catechism
• Anglican Ethics
• Book of Common Prayer