Death Penalty (NKJV)

The death penalty is among the oldest forms of capital punishment. Those who favor it argue that it serves to punish the criminal, prevent repetition, and discourage crime. It is argued that as a society we must “protect the innocent” and are therefore obligated to act when crimes warrant it. Those opposed argue that taking a human life is the ultimate denial of human rights. They agree there should be punishment, but also believe that the person has “the right to life” no matter what they have done. Apart from the death penalty we would all agree with “protecting the innocent” as well as someone’s “right to life.” However, did you know in America there is a segment of society that is not protected, nor do they have the right to life? Since 1973 over 50,000,000 million human beings have been killed in America in the name of pro choice. These precious children, created in the image of God and formed by their Creator, are being killed and discarded as trash in what should be the safest environment, the mother’s womb (www.abort73.com). “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” - Psalm 139:13-14 Just because a human being isn’t fully formed doesn’t make them less of a human being. There is another kind of death penalty that you should be aware of, and that is the death penalty rendered by God for sinning against Him. “For the wages of sin is death....” - Romans 6:23a Sin is rebellion against God, which is shown in actions like lying, stealing, fornicating, drunkenness, greed, hatred and idolatry like worshipping the gods of sport, entertainment or money. Are you guilty? God says you are: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” - Romans 3:23 What does this death penalty mean? If you die in your sins, you will be judged accordingly and cast into the lake of fire forever, being punished and tormented for your crimes against a holy and just God (Revelations 21:8). You see, we don’t deserve the “right to life” because of our sin and we cannot be “protected” because we are not innocent. However, God in His love and mercy for sinners has provided a way of pardon. Jesus Christ, His perfect Son, died in your place on a cross, taking the punishment you deserve. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” - Romans 5:8 Jesus Christ rose from the dead and has defeated sin and death on your behalf. God’s will for you is to be forgiven and reconciled to Him, receive “new life” in Christ and a new home in heaven. “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 6:23b But this is not automatic. God commands you to repent of your sin toward Him (acknowledge and forsake it) and trust in His Son Jesus Christ for your salvation. What will you choose, life or death? Please choose life. Call upon the Lord to save you from your sin. Then share the “good news” of God’s love in Christ with others and speak out for the innocent who have no right to life.