There are many legal and social justice reasons to stand against capital punishment. The death penalty is biased against the poor, as they cannot afford adequate legal representation. Also, death penalty cases have been shown time and time again to be extremely racially disproportionate.

We know the Old Testament clearly supports capital punishment, but read what Jesus had to say in Matthew 5: 38 regarding the “eye for an eye” law, value and mentality. Jesus changed the values and the old way of doing things.

As Christians, we know each and every life is sacred; each person, regardless of their actions, is valued and loved by God. Under the New Testament, Christ commanded us to have love for our enemies – the “worst” of society (Matthew 5: 43-47). He said this is how the world would know we are Christians – this identifies us. This is the kind of radical Savior we serve. A Savior who loves and wants us to love even those who are on death row. We stand against giving our courts the right to condemn another person to death – if you are pro-life, then you will stand with us against capital punishment.

Scriptures reflecting the values:

Matt 5:38-39
“You have heard that it was said, ‘eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ but i tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 (New American Standard Bible)

“We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.”

Job 33:4
“The spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the almighty gives me life.”