The Old Testament taught a harsh form of justice, especially under certain circumstances. For example, if two men fight, with the pregnant wife of one man losing her child, Exodus 21:23-25 states, “then you shall give life for live, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.”
Things are different under the New Covenant. That doesn’t mean that the civil government does not have a responsibility to impose punishment (sometimes harsh) upon the evildoer. “Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake” (Romans 13:2-5).
Note especially the words “…he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” There is no scripture that indicates it is immoral or inappropriate for any nation to exercise harsh penalties (even the death penalty) for egregious crimes. This is indicated in the words, “for he does not bear the sword in vain” as a minister of God.
However, our individual response to such ungodliness is much different. Jesus, in His sermon on the mount, said this, “You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:38-42).
As Christians, we are to leave the old fashioned justice to those in authority. Our response should always be spiritual in nature, with an emphasis on brotherly love, kindness, longsuffering and patience. Consider that it may even be a way in which we are tested! “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4). God expects a lot from us regarding our spiritual integrity!
