Christian Attitudes to Capital Punishment

• What does the Old Testament prescribe for crimes such as murder?

  The death penalty
• What does Leviticus say about taking a human life?

  Anyone who takes the life of a human being shall be put to death
• Why do some Christians believe the Old Testament should be obeyed?

  Because it contains God’s laws
• What principle does Exodus state regarding punishments?

  Punishments should be in proportion to the crime committed
• What phrase from Exodus illustrates the principle of proportional punishment?

  “Life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth”
• What does Genesis say about shedding the blood of man?

  Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed
• Why do some Christians believe authorities have the right to punish people?

  Because authorities are seen as God's servants carrying out punishment
• What does St. Paul say about state authorities in Romans?

  Everyone must obey the state authorities
• What is the implication of breaking the sanctity of life according to some Christians?

  They cannot expect the sanctity of their life to be respected
• How do some Christians justify capital punishment based on the sanctity of life?

  By arguing that murderers violate the sanctity of life and thus forfeit their own
• What do some Christians believe about the sanctity of life?

  Human life is precious and belongs to God; only God has the right to take life.
• What does Jesus teach about revenge in Matthew?

  Jesus teaches not to take revenge and to turn the other cheek.
• How does the teaching of Jesus about the woman caught in adultery relate to capital punishment?

  Jesus' response suggests that he does not support capital punishment and values the opportunity for reform.
• What did St Paul write about revenge in Romans?

  St Paul wrote that one should not repay evil for evil and leave room for God's wrath.
• What do some Christians believe about God's role in punishment?

  Some Christians feel that only God has the right to punish people.
• What does the Old Testament prescribe regarding the death penalty?

  The Old Testament prescribes the death penalty for various offenses, including cursing parents and adultery.
• Why do most Christians believe in reform as the main aim of punishment?

  Most Christians believe that executing criminals eliminates the possibility for them to repent and reform.
• What are the reasons some Christians oppose capital punishment?

  • Belief in the sanctity of life
  • Jesus' teachings against revenge
  • Jesus' example of mercy towards the adulterous woman
  • St Paul's teaching on leaving vengeance to God
  • Old Testament's harsh penalties for various offenses
  • Emphasis on reform over execution