Don’t Kill the Messenger

Don’t kill the messenger

The phrase “don’t kill the messenger” is an idiom that means not to blame or harm the person who is delivering bad or unwelcome news. Many times we do kill the messenger (figuratively) if we don’t like what they say or believe. We kill them by ignoring them, ending the friendship with them, shunning them, or condemning what they say even if the message they give is true. 

Some messengers were actually murdered for spreading a message that some (in power) did not like. Jesus was the perfect messenger and what He told was 100% true and accurate, however, He was murdered for what He proclaimed. And so were the Apostles (all except John), some Prophets, and everyday lay people both back then and now for saying things people do not want to hear. When Jesus and His children die for spreading the Good News, it proves another saying, “You can sometimes kill the messenger, but not the message.”

What makes us want to ignore, argue with, put down, or criticize (kill) the messenger? It could be that we are too proud to accept the truth, do not want to believe condemning information about someone we care about, that we are biased, or that we don’t like the messenger. In the religious realm, we could be living a lifestyle that is contrary to what we are taught in scripture and the messenger brings us convicting news. 

Next question is, “Have you ever been one of those messengers who faced the wrath of those to whom you bring the message that they do not like?” Whether giving a message or receiving one can be very uncomfortable, convicting, and difficult to give or receive. 

Speaking from a religious point of view, Christians have an instruction book on how to give and receive a message, counseling, advice, inspiration, rebuke, wisdom, and doctrinal truths; it is the Scriptures. 

How should we give advice (deliver a message)? Do you deliver your words in a kind (Eph. 4:31-32), loving (Eph 4:15) manner, speak truth (Ephesians 4:25) with respect (1 Peter 2:17), with honor (Romans 12:10), with gentleness and courtesy toward all people(Titus 3:2) as Scripture advises? As Christ followers these actions should be foremost and a natural reaction when speaking and interacting with others.

In respect to receiving a communicated message, the above Scriptures also apply. When receiving a message (no matter what type) we are called to receive it with respect to the deliverer, gentleness and courtesy, receive it in love and not hate, and with honor.

However, when receiving a message it should still be accepted with caution, even if given in a Christ-like manner. Scripture in 1 Thessalonians 5:21 tells us “But test them all; hold on to what is good.” Be like the Bereans.