As a theologian, I have read the Bible to understand the importance of the life God gave us and how he wants us to preserve and protect our lives and those around us. While at it, I developed an interest in those who take innocent lives, murderers. I wanted to know if these people could go to heaven. I then researched extensively and used different Christian books to understand the topic better. I also visited clergies from different denominations assigned to guide and counsel various murderers in different jails nationwide to get their opinion on the topic and what the Bible says. Last month, a member of my online Christian forum wanted to know if murderers can go to heaven. The question had come from our previous topic, the sixth commandment in the Bible. From my vast research and experience, I had the answer to this question. So, can murderers go to heaven?
Bible scholars suggest murderers can go to heaven if they repent and receive salvation. 1 John 1:9 states that if we confess our sins, our God is just and faithful, and that he will forgive us our sins and make us clean from any unrighteousness. Galatians 1:4 also records that Jesus died for all our sins, including Murder.
I invite you to join me as I explore more about this topic. I will discuss what the Bible says about Murder, if God forgives Murder, and if a murderer can repent their sins and go to heaven, among other topics.
What does the Bible say about Murder?
The Bible warns us against committing Murder in Exodus 20:13. Committing Murder was such a grievous sin in the Old Testament that God had commanded the murderer to be put to death, as recorded in Leviticus 24:17.
The Bible also states in Revelations 21:8 that murderers will be subjected to the fiery lake of burning sulfur in hell because of their sins.
1 John 3:15 states that anyone who hates their sister or brother is a murderer and will not have eternal life.
Matthew 5:21-22 also reveals that anyone who commits Murder will be subjected to judgment.
Does God forgive murderers?
The Bible reveals in 1 John 1:9 that God forgives any of our unrighteousness if we sincerely confess our sins. We learn through John 3:16 that God loves us so much that he gave his only son Jesus Christ to die for our sins. When Jesus came to earth, he revealed that every other sin would be forgiven except blasphemy, as recorded in Luke 12:10. Murder is not blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and, therefore, can be forgiven.
Can a murderer repent their sins and go to heaven?
The Bible states that murderers can repent their sins and go to heaven because Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for all our sins, as seen in 1 John 2:2, Murder included. There is no small or bigger sin before our God, and therefore he can forgive us any sin we have committed as long as we confess them, as seen in 1 John 1:9. Scholars suggest that it is not the size of our sins but the size of the sacrificial lamb. Jesus shed his blood on the cross to cover for every sin committed.
How is it just that a murderer repents and goes to heaven?
A murderer can repent and go to heaven because they have acquired salvation, a requirement to enter heaven. The Bible states that for one to get saved, they have to believe in the Lord Jesus, as recorded in Acts 16:31. The Bible also reveals in Romans 10:13 that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. The scripture does not exclude murderers when it says everyone will be saved. With salvation, a murderer will be able to go to heaven.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
