"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord."

Romans 12: 17-19 (NIV)

Consider this as you reflect on the scripture above: We have criminal trials everyday within our justice system and punish the wrongdoers of man-made law; however, isn’t God the one true Judge for what is evil and wrong? Doesn’t the Bible teach us that we should not repay evil for evil? Why then do many states have a death penalty system? How do we—or can we—justify this given the biblical teachings?

• Post your reflective thoughts as you consider these questions.