Christian peace officers sometimes grapple with the commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13 and Deuteronomy 5:17 KJV). This raises a critical question: what happens when deadly force becomes necessary to protect themselves or others?
The original Old Testament word used in Hebrew is “ratsach,” which was translated as “kill” in the King James Version. However, the Hebrew word carries a broader meaning. Many theologians agree that a more accurate translation is “murder.” This is reflected in versions like the English Standard Version (ESV), New American Standard Version (NASB), New King James Version (NKJV), and the New Living Translation (NLT), which translate the verse as “You shall not murder.”
Outside of natural causes, any situation involving a deceased person is classified as a “Homicide.” However, the existence of a homicide does not automatically imply a crime. Homicides are categorized into several types: accidental, suicide, justified, manslaughter, or murder, with further sub-categories within each. Of these, some are criminal acts, while others are not.
When a police officer takes a life while using lawful force, it is considered a justified homicide. In such cases, there is no conflict with the commandment in Exodus or Deuteronomy that prohibits murder. A justified homicide, in both legal and biblical terms, is not considered murder. It’s an act taken within the bounds of the law to preserve life or prevent greater harm. Understanding this distinction is crucial for officers who are also people of faith, allowing them to reconcile their duty with their beliefs.
It is important to remember that officers often face split-second decisions in life-threatening situations. Their actions are scrutinized, but the law recognizes that using force is an act of love when it protects innocent lives. The distinction between murder and justified homicide is not merely a legal technicality; it is a moral and ethical imperative.
Black lives in blue uniforms 2 also face this dilemma.