Capital Punishment and the Sixth Commandment Part 2

Capital punishment has become a subject of great contention, but it doesn't have to be if we look to the Word for the answer.

This evening's sermon further explains the sins God deemed worthy of death, and the authority God has given the civil magistrate the duty to enforce them. We shall see that these sins are first and foremost, sins against God, and sins against the 6th Commandment which is designed to preserve life and protect victim's rights.

Now consider why the subjects of what crimes deserve death, and even the existence of a death penalty at all is so contentious. Could it be because God has already clearly identified capital crimes and their consequences? Would unregenerate men deciding which of God's laws they should obey cause contention and unrest? What about the very idea that society can overrule God? How can we see the evolving evidence of that?

This sermon also addresses the other end of the spectrum where individuals may overreact in situations and become jury, judge, and executioner. Is your understanding of self defence in line with God's law?

The key to this issue is balance, and balance can only be achieved through the knowing and obeying of God's law. God said “Blessed are they who keep my ways...