And for your lifeblood I will require a reckoning: from every beast I will require it and from man. From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man. “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.” Genesis 9:5-6
This is the basic text for the proper Christian understanding of capital punishment. “If anyone injures his neighbor, as he has done it shall be done to him” (Leviticus 24:19). “If there is harm, then you shall pay life for life” (Exodus 21:23).
God comes throughout the Scriptures talking about His recompense: “Vengeance is Mine, and recompense” (Deuteronomy 32:35). “Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might … His reward is with Him, and His recompense before Him” (Isaiah 40:10). “Behold, I am coming soon, bringing My recompense with Me, to repay each one for what he has done” (Revelation 22:12).
God’s recompense is the just reward for our sin. However, God is also merciful. He could have destroyed Noah and his family, but He wanted to show His mercy. Mercy that is yours if you turn to Him today in faith. Amen.
