There are a variety of Bible verses about punishment, which address everything from capital punishment to eternal punishment. It’s important to remember that God’s justice is perfect, and that He will repay everyone according to their deeds. As you read these Bible verses about punishment, remember that God is merciful and forgiving, but also just and righteous.
Scriptures on Punishment
10 Bible Verses about Punishment
Colossians 3:25 ESV
For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.
Romans 12:17-19 ESV
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
Genesis 9:6 ESV
“Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.
Revelation 21:8 ESV
But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
Matthew 10:28 ESV
And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV
My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.
Matthew 25:41 ESV
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
Proverbs 11:21 ESV
Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.
Matthew 25:46 ESV
And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Exodus 21:17 ESV
“Whoever curses his father or his mother shall be put to death.
Revelation 3:19 ESV
Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.
Read more from Open Bible articles with what the Bible says about punishment
Scripture about Punishment KJV
Punishment is a key theme throughout the KJV. scriptures about punishment can be found in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus lays out a number of specific punishments for various offenses. These include everything from restitution to execution. The New Testament also contains a number of verses about punishment, though these are generally more general in nature. For instance, in Matthew 5:38-39, Jesus says that we should “turn the other cheek” when we are struck, and in Romans 12:17-21, Paul instructs us to “never take revenge.” These and other verses make it clear that punishment is an important part of Christian teaching. While the specifics may vary depending on the situation, the underlying principle is always the same: those who do wrong must be held accountable for their actions.
FAQ about Punishment in the Bible
There are a few problems with punishment. First, punishment doesn’t always work – in fact, it can often backfire, leading to more misbehavior. Second, it can be damaging to the relationship between parents and children. Third, it teaches children that violence is an acceptable way to resolve conflicts. Finally, it can lead to a sense of guilt and humiliation in children. Only God’s final judgement will bring perfect justice.
There are three primary problems with human punishment: its arbitrariness, its ineffectiveness, and its potential for harm. Punishment is arbitrary when it is not based on any logical or consistent principle, but is instead imposed randomly or capriciously. God’s justice is different. Scripture deals with these punishment problems in several ways.
Well, without punishments, what would stop people from doing bad things? We need some form of consequences to deter people from breaking the law or harming others. God knew this and that’s why the Bible talks about punishment. Think of it this way – if you knew that there was no punishment for shoplifting, would you be tempted to do it? Probably yes. Now, if you knew that there was a severe punishment for shoplifting – say, imprisonment – would you still be tempted to do it? Probably not. The same goes for more serious crimes like murder or assault. Punishments act as a deterrent, and help to keep society safe. They also provide some measure of justice for victims and their families.