The death penalty is more supported than not
The death penalty is more supported than not
It is harder to deny the death penalty than support it based even strictly on New Testament scripture.
Yes there are several odd actions that would incur death in the old testament times, yet the incredulity of these punishments by today's standards, even with the words of Jesus, does not remove the clear admonition of governments to punish with death if need be.
The single best New Testament example, given by Paul during a thoroughly New Covenant era, given among those who knew Christ personally and best, was that the state does not wield the sword in vain. The sword is an image of death and not mere chastisement. Chastisement tools were whips, which Christ used against the money changers in the temple. Paul clearly supports the measures a state uses to keep the peace, including death.
One can not use a broad gospel brush for every aspect of life. We are supposed to use discernment. There is a clear cut line between the instructions for the individual and the government. The government is to operate as the law, unbending, severe, without partiality or mercy, thereby mirroring the Old Testament as tutor. Mercy is to be shown by the individual. It is a hope that in time all flesh will know this mercy, and no longer incur the wrath of government. Until then, government functions using the rod and the sword. Can anyone give clear scriptural examples where we are commanded not to kill the murderer?