death penalty
What does the Bible say about death penalty? These are the passages readers found most helpful — tap any citation to read it in context.
11 passages · most helpful first
6Whoever will shed human blood, his blood will be poured out. For man was indeed made to the image of God.
12Whoever strikes a man, intending to murder, shall be put to death.
19Do not defend yourselves, dearest ones. Instead, step aside from wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is mine. I shall give retribution, says the Lord.”
13You shall not murder.
7And also Sodom and Gomorrah, and the adjoining cities, in similar ways, having given themselves over to fornication and to the pursuing of other flesh, were made an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire.
43You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor, and you shall have hatred for your enemy.’ 44But I say to you: Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. And pray for those who persecute and slander you.
38You have heard that it was said: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I say to you, do not resist one who is evil, but if anyone will have struck you on your right cheek, offer to him the other also.
17Whoever speaks evil of his father or mother shall die a death.
9The Lord is not delaying his promise, as some imagine, but he does act patiently for your sake, not wanting anyone to perish, but wanting all to be turned back to penance.
7Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
23For the wages of sin is death. But the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.