Topic: Capital Punishment and the Bible

Capital punishment or "the death penalty" is a frequently debated punishment in the United States. Although a majority of Americans still support the death penalty as a punishment, the support seems to be declining.

Please discuss the following:

• What is the origin and biblical basis for the death penalty?
• Is there a difference between the Old and New Testament approaches to the death penalty?
• Explain the U.S. Supreme Court's treatment of juveniles and the mentally ill in death penalty cases.
• Does the death penalty provide a valid punishment option in today's society?