In a country and world weary of crime and longing for justice, people, in fear and frustration, often turn their thoughts to the death penalty. It’s seen as a potential deterrent, a way for offenders to pay for the pain they have inflicted on others, and a possible solution to ending crime. We sometimes think that seeing people suffer for the pain they have caused is only fair. Time and time again, the subject of the return of the death penalty is raised. Controversial and thought-provoking, the issue of the death penalty occupies a significant place in discussions of justice and human rights. For members of The Salvation Army, navigating this sensitive topic goes beyond legalities—it’s about upholding our Christian values amidst societal complexities. Let’s explore what God’s Word reveals, what The Salvation Army believes, and how this should shape our thinking about the death penalty.
The Salvation Army’s Position
The Salvation Army believes that every human life is sacred. We recognize that governments have a role in maintaining justice and ensuring that crimes are punished. However, the Salvation Army supports the call for the abolition of the death penalty. The fundamental belief behind this stance is that every human being is made in the image of God and holds intrinsic value. This value does not diminish, no matter what someone has done. Justice should always be served in a way that respects the sanctity of human life.
What Does God’s Word Say?
The Bible provides insights into the value of human life and God’s grace:
- Intrinsic Value of Life: Genesis 1:27 tells us that all humans are created in God’s image. Psalm 8:5 speaks of the special place humans hold in God’s creation.
- Sin and Redemption: Romans 3:23 reminds us that all have sinned. Yet, Romans 6:23 and Ephesians 2:8 emphasize that God offers grace and life as a gift, not something we earn.
- God’s Desire for Repentance, Not Death: In Ezekiel 18:23, God expresses no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires that they turn from their ways and live.
- Justice and Grace: Jesus’ teachings, particularly in Luke 6:27-31, call us to live lives of justice, humility and grace, steering away from vengeance. Romans 12:19 further instructs us to leave vengeance to God.
These Scriptures emphasize that God values life, extends grace and offers redemption to all.
The Christian Response
As followers of Christ, our response to the death penalty should be rooted in grace, justice and transformation:
- Supporting Reform: The Salvation Army, with its extensive experience in the criminal justice system, supports efforts that aim for the rehabilitation of offenders. This aligns with the Christian belief in the possibility of redemption for all.
- Offering Pastoral Care: Providing spiritual counsel and pastoral care to offenders, victims, and their families is vital. This support can play a significant role in the transformation of lives, promoting restorative justice.
- Promoting Social Justice: Encouraging non-lethal punishments that support criminal reform is crucial. By focusing on rehabilitation and restorative justice, we can help create a system that reflects the values of mercy and redemption
Practical Steps Forward
To align with these values, The Salvation Army commits to the following actions:
- Educating Salvationists on a sound Biblical understanding regarding the death penalty.
- Collaborating with international organisations to work towards the elimination of the death penalty globally.
- Partnering with other groups to advocate for just and humane punishment systems.
- Providing professional counseling and pastoral care for all affected by crime and punishment.
- Advising governments on crime prevention and humane penalty systems.
Shaped by God’s Word
As Salvationists, it’s essential to allow God’s Word to shape our thinking on this matter. In a world where opinions can be swayed by popular culture and prevailing sentiments, we must anchor our beliefs in the truths of Scripture. By doing so, we can stand firm in our conviction that all life is sacred and reflect Christ’s love and grace in our approach to justice and redemption.
The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statements can be found at: https://www.salvationarmy.org/isjc/ips