WLC 134

Westminster Larger Catechism

Q134. Which is the sixth commandment?

The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.

Proof texts

For discussion

  1. The Assembly cited Ex. 20:13 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
  2. WSC Q45 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
  3. HC Q92 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
  4. The Assembly divided over this: Justification and the Antinomian Crisis. How do you secure sola fide without letting the law fall away? What turns on the answer?

Read alongside

WSC Q45 · HC Q92

Leader's notes

A Body of Divinity (Thomas Ridgley): Quest. CXXXIV., CXXXV., CXXXVI. QUEST. CXXXIV. What is the sixth Commandment? ANSW. The sixth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not kill.] QUEST. CXXXV. What are the duties required in the sixth Commandment? ANSW. The duties required in the sixth Commandment are, all careful studies, and lawful endeavours to preserve the life of ourselves, and others, by resisting all thoughts and purposes, subduing all passions, and avoiding all occasions, temptations, and practices, which tend to the unjust taking away the life of any; by just defence thereof against violence, patient bearing of the hand of God, quietness of mind, cheerfulness of spirit, a sober use of meat, drink, physic, sleep, labour, and recreations, by charitable thoughts, love, compassion, meekness, gentleness, kindness, peaceable…