JOHN PAUL S.
CANTOMAYOR
BS CRIM 2 – 1
January 17, 2025
Research Paper
Title: Crime and Punishment According to the Bible
Abstract
The Bible offers a comprehensive framework for understanding crime and punishment, rooted in
divine justice and moral order. Across its pages, it provides principles for addressing wrongdoing
and restoring relationships, balancing retribution with mercy. This paper explores biblical
teachings on crime and punishment, examining their historical, ethical, and theological
dimensions. Special emphasis is placed on the evolution of justice from the Old Testament to the
New Testament and its implications for contemporary legal and moral systems.
1. Introduction
The Bible has long shaped moral and legal frameworks across cultures. Its teachings on crime
and punishment are deeply intertwined with its broader theological themes of sin, justice, mercy,
and redemption. This paper examines the biblical approach to wrongdoing, focusing on key
passages and principles that inform its understanding of justice and its application to individuals
and communities.
2. Crime and Sin: Definitions and Contexts
2.1. The Concept of Sin as a Crime Against God
In the biblical worldview, crime is often equated with sin—a violation of God’s laws. Sin
disrupts the divine order and harms relationships between individuals and communities.
Key texts, such as Genesis 3, depict the origin of sin and its consequences.
2.2. Crimes Against Humanity and Divine Laws
While sin encompasses moral and spiritual violations, the Bible also addresses specific
crimes, including theft, murder, and adultery. These are framed not only as offenses
against individuals but as breaches of divine law (Exodus 20:1-17).
3. Punishment in the Old Testament
3.1. Principles of Justice
The Old Testament emphasizes retributive justice, summarized by the principle of “an
eye for an eye” (Leviticus 24:19-21). This framework sought proportionality in
punishment, ensuring that the response to crime was neither excessive nor inadequate.
3.2. Restitution and Atonement
Restitution was a central aspect of justice. For instance, Exodus 22 prescribes
compensatory measures for theft. Sacrificial systems provided a means for atonement,
allowing offenders to reconcile with God and the community.
3.3. The Role of Community and Authority
Judges, elders, and priests played critical roles in enforcing justice, as seen in
Deuteronomy 16:18-20. The communal aspect of punishment reinforced social cohesion
and deterred future crimes.
4. Punishment in the New Testament
4.1. Transformation of Justice Through Christ
The New Testament shifts the focus from retribution to grace and redemption. Jesus’
teachings, such as in Matthew 5:38-42, challenge the retributive mindset, emphasizing
forgiveness and reconciliation.
4.2. The Role of Civil Authorities
Romans 13:1-7 affirms the role of governmental authorities in maintaining order and
administering justice. However, it also underscores the need for justice to align with
God’s moral law.
4.3. Eternal Consequences and Divine Judgment
While earthly justice is important, the New Testament frequently points to ultimate
accountability before God, as seen in Revelation 20:11-15.
5. Themes and Principles in Biblical Justice
5.1. Mercy and Compassion
The Bible balances justice with mercy, as demonstrated in passages like Micah 6:8 and
John 8:1-11. These texts highlight the importance of restoring offenders rather than
merely punishing them.
5.2. Restoration and Reconciliation
Biblical justice often aims at restoring relationships—with God, others, and the
community. For example, Zacchaeus’ restitution in Luke 19:1-10 reflects the
transformative power of repentance.
5.3. Accountability and Responsibility
The Bible consistently calls individuals to take responsibility for their actions while also
addressing systemic injustice, as seen in the prophetic literature (Isaiah 1:17).
6. Implications for Contemporary Society
6.1. Informing Legal Systems
Biblical principles have influenced the development of modern legal codes, particularly
in areas like proportional justice and the protection of human dignity.
6.2. Promoting Restorative Justice
The emphasis on restoration and reconciliation provides a framework for addressing
crime in ways that heal communities and rehabilitate offenders.
6.3. Balancing Justice and Mercy
A biblical approach challenges societies to balance strict adherence to the law with
compassion, ensuring that justice serves the greater good.
7. Conclusion
The Bible offers a profound and holistic perspective on crime and punishment, one that
integrates justice with mercy, and accountability with forgiveness. Its teachings continue
to inspire and challenge contemporary discussions on justice, emphasizing the need for
systems that uphold dignity, promote restoration, and reflect divine principles.
References
The Holy Bible, New International Version.
Wright, C. J. H. (2004). Old Testament Ethics for the People of God. Downers Grove, IL:
InterVarsity Press.
Marshall, C. D. (2001). Beyond Retribution: A New Testament Vision for Justice, Crime,
and Punishment. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.
Brueggemann, W. (1997). Theology of the Old Testament: Testimony, Dispute, Advocacy.
Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press.
