But when someone gets angry and deliberately kills someone else, he is to be put to death, even if he has run to my altar for safety.

Kill the old men, young men, young women, mothers, and children. But don't touch anyone who has the mark on his forehead. Start here at my Temple." So they began with the leaders who were standing there at the Temple.

The time has come for judgment to begin, and God's own people are the first to be judged. If it starts with us, how will it end with those who do not believe the Good News from God?

So King Solomon gave orders to Benaiah, who went out and killed Adonijah.

"Do what Joab says," Solomon answered. "Kill him and bury him. Then neither I nor any other of David's descendants will any longer be held responsible for what Joab did when he killed innocent men.

Then the king gave orders to Benaiah, who went out and killed Shimei. Solomon was now in complete control.