What Does the Bible Say About the Death Penalty?
What Does the Bible Say About the Death Penalty? The Old Testament prescribed capital punishment for certain crimes, while the New Testament emphasizes mercy — Christians hold varying views.
Key verse: Genesis 9:6 (KJV)
The Old Testament prescribed capital punishment for certain crimes, while the New Testament emphasizes mercy — Christians hold varying views.
The Old Testament prescribed capital punishment for certain crimes, while the New Testament emphasizes mercy — Christians hold varying views.
"Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man." — Genesis 9:6 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
Genesis 9:6 establishes a foundational principle: 'Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.' The Mosaic Law prescribed death for murder, adultery, blasphemy, and other offenses. Romans 13:4 acknowledges the government's authority to bear the sword. However, Jesus demonstrated mercy when He stopped the stoning of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11), saying, 'He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.' Jesus Himself was subjected to capital punishment, and the thief on the cross received salvation at the moment of execution. Christians disagree on whether these texts support or oppose modern capital punishment, with some emphasizing justice and others emphasizing redemption.
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Key Scripture References
"Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man."
"For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain."
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
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The Bible teaches that God freely forgives those who repent and that believers must forgive others as they have been forgiven — not seven times, but seventy times seven.
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Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Genesis. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Genesis on day 11 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About the Death Penalty?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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