"And when inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both were hanged on the gallows....."
Esther 2:23a
After an investigation that proved that the two were guilty of treason, they were executed. The question about capital punishment surfaces every time there is an execution. The question of whether I personally support the death penalty is irrelevant. The important thing is what God says. Early in the history of the human race, God set the standard: "Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God, He made man" (Genesis 9:6). It is not an issue of vengeance; it is a matter of justice. Because human life is sacred, its value must be preserved. There are cultures where human life means nothing. America is getting close to that place when an unborn baby can be killed because it has no value. The Law of Moses indicates other reasons for the death penalty, among them adultery, talking back to a parent, and rebellion against authority. But the prerogative is always reserved for the government and God (see Romans 13:4). There is no place for personal vendetta or vigilantism. Surely there have been unjustified executions, but that does not nullify the validity of capital punishment. Great care should be taken to investigate and confirm before it is employed.
Today's Thought: Capital punishment is God's idea, not man's.
Have a godly day. Love you.
Esther 2:23a
After an investigation that proved that the two were guilty of treason, they were executed. The question about capital punishment surfaces every time there is an execution. The question of whether I personally support the death penalty is irrelevant. The important thing is what God says. Early in the history of the human race, God set the standard: "Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God, He made man" (Genesis 9:6). It is not an issue of vengeance; it is a matter of justice. Because human life is sacred, its value must be preserved. There are cultures where human life means nothing. America is getting close to that place when an unborn baby can be killed because it has no value. The Law of Moses indicates other reasons for the death penalty, among them adultery, talking back to a parent, and rebellion against authority. But the prerogative is always reserved for the government and God (see Romans 13:4). There is no place for personal vendetta or vigilantism. Surely there have been unjustified executions, but that does not nullify the validity of capital punishment. Great care should be taken to investigate and confirm before it is employed.
Today's Thought: Capital punishment is God's idea, not man's.
Have a godly day. Love you.
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