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Capital punishment
The issue of capital punishment is one about which rational and devout Christians can and do disagree. Some would argue for the clear teaching of the Old Testament, pre-dating even the giving of the Mosaic Law (Genesis 9:6), that murder requires the death penalty. Some would argue for "the higher law" of the New Testament as represented by such passages as Romans 12: 17-19.
The Salvation Army in the United States does not adopt an official position for or against the death penalty, but instead urges careful consideration of the question as a matter of conscience, informed by the fullest possible understanding of the Scriptures and by personal guidance from the Holy Spirit as well as by an awareness of the social and personal implications of public policy.
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Genesis 9:6
"Whoever sheds the blood of man,
by man shall his blood be shed;
for in the image of God
has God made man.
Romans 12:17-19
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. [18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. [19] Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.
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