Bible Question: Does the Bible support capital punishment? I am under the impression that it does, though I may be mistaken. I certainly support it. Am I wrong in supporting capital punishment? Please state biblical references with your answer. Thank you. |
Bible Answer: Ge 9:6 (KJV) "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man." Granted this is a very controversial question. And granted that the above verse is from the O.T. However, I find nothing in the N.T. that cancels or abolishes the above principle. As a Christian, I don't care about the fairness, inhumane-ness, unpopularity or popularity of capital punishment. I am concerned only with what the Bible has to say on the subject -- with what God has to say. What I WOULD like to know is: does the Bible support prison systems as a means of punishment? Is there anything in the Mosaic law that establishes long prison sentences or incarceration as punishment for crimes committed? What I do see in the Law is restitution, monetary and otherwise, exile, and execution as punishments -- not imprisonment. What are your views on this, JMR? |