Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

A recent inquiry by a parent, John from Springfield, has prompted a discussion on the actions of God in the Bible and their moral implications. The question arose when John's children asked if Jesus ever sinned. John responded, “No, because Jesus is God, and God cannot sin.” However, his son pointed out instances in the Bible where God appears to have taken lives, which seems to contradict one of the Commandments: "Thou shall not murder."

In response to this query, Father Daniel McGrath provided insights into how these biblical events can be understood within Christian theology. He explained that God is not part of His creation but exists as its creator. Citing the Book of Wisdom, he stated: “You love all things that are and loathe nothing that you have made” (Wis. 11:24). This underscores God's perfect goodness and love in creating life.

Father McGrath elaborated on how death entered the world through human actions: “The wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23), emphasizing that it was not God's doing but a consequence of original sin. He further clarified that while murder is an offense against God's gift of life, only God has the right to take back this gift.

Addressing concerns about divine justice and morality, Father McGrath noted that for God to take a human life would not constitute murder or injustice since “God cannot act out of malice.” He referenced Job's acceptance of divine will: “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!” (Job 1:21).

Regarding those who perished in events like the flood or Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction, Father McGrath offered reassurance about their spiritual fate. He expressed confidence that they were afforded grace and opportunities for salvation through Christ’s sacrifice: “[God] wills everyone to be saved … .” (1 Tim. 2:4).

Father Daniel McGrath serves as parochial Vicar at Springfield's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and assistant chaplain at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School.