The issue of justice, violence, and authority is addressed throughout the Bible. What does Scripture say about the use of force, especially when it comes to the role of those in authority, like police officers? Let’s look into biblical principles of justice, mercy, and the sanctity of life.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Forgetting
What Does The Bible Say About Police Killing
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.”
This commandment from God clearly states that taking another person’s life is forbidden. It applies to every person, including those in positions of authority.
Police killings that result in the death of unarmed individuals go against the commandment against murder. It is a tragic violation of human life and a betrayal of the trust placed in law enforcement to protect and serve.
Proverbs 21:15
“When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of justice being carried out fairly and equitably. When justice is upheld, it brings a sense of satisfaction to those who do what is right, but it also instills fear in those who engage in wrongdoing.
In cases of police killings, where officers act unlawfully and take lives unjustly, it is a failure of justice. Such actions do not bring joy to the righteous but create fear, pain, and grief within communities that are affected.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Also known as the Golden Rule, this verse encapsulates the teachings of the Law and the Prophets. Jesus calls upon believers to treat others with the same kindness, fairness, and respect they desire for themselves.
In relation to police killings, this verse reinforces the need for law enforcement to treat every individual, regardless of race or background, with the same level of fairness, respect, and dignity they would expect for themselves or their loved ones.
Psalms 82:3-4
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This psalm emphasizes the responsibility of those in positions of power and authority to protect and uplift those who are vulnerable and oppressed. It calls for action to defend the weak and ensure justice for the marginalized.
In cases of police killings, these verses highlight the need for law enforcement to act as defenders of justice and protectors of human life. Instead of being the cause of harm, they should strive to deliver and rescue those in need from the clutches of wickedness.
Proverbs 17:15
“Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent— the Lord detests them both.”
This verse speaks to the abhorrence God holds for injustice in the legal system. It condemns the unjust acquittal of the guilty and the wrongful condemnation of the innocent.
In the context of police killings, this verse highlights the importance of ensuring that those responsible for unjustly taking lives be held accountable. Failing to do so not only perpetuates injustice but also goes against the very nature of righteousness that God desires.
Proverbs 29:7
“The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.”
This proverb draws a distinction between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous are characterized by their care and concern for justice, particularly in relation to the poor and marginalized. The wicked, however, show no regard for such matters.
In relation to police killings, this verse emphasizes the importance of law enforcement officers embodying righteousness and demonstrating a deep concern for justice, particularly when it comes to protecting the lives of those who are disadvantaged and treated unjustly.
Proverbs 3:31
“Do not envy the violent or choose any of their ways.”
This verse warns against envying or imitating those who resort to violence or engage in unjust actions. It encourages believers to reject such ways and instead choose the path of righteousness.
In the context of police killings, this verse serves as a reminder that law enforcement officers should not succumb to violence or choose actions that lead to the unjust taking of lives. They must seek nonviolent and just means to fulfill their duties and responsibilities.
Exodus 23:7
“Have nothing to do with a false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty.”
God’s commandment in this verse prohibits the involvement in false accusations and the killing of innocent or honest individuals. It reinforces the importance of ensuring the preservation of innocent lives.
Police killings, especially when they involve the killing of innocent individuals or the result of false charges, go against the divine commandment. It is a profound injustice and a betrayal of the trust placed in law enforcement to uphold the truth and protect innocent lives.
Matthew 5:21-22
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
Jesus addresses the significance of internal disposition and emotions, declaring that anger toward others can have severe consequences and be subject to divine judgment.
In cases of police killings, this verse highlights the importance of law enforcement officers cultivating attitudes of peace, love, and self-control. Acting out of anger or with disregard for human life contradicts the teachings of Jesus and can lead to disastrous consequences.
Deuteronomy 16:20
“Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
In this verse, the Israelites are commanded to pursue justice, emphasizing that it should be the guiding principle in their lives. By doing so, they would experience a blessed and prosperous life in the land promised to them by God.
Similarly, police officers should uphold justice as their paramount value, ensuring that every human life is treated with fairness and respect. By faithfully pursuing justice, they contribute to the betterment of society and the fulfillment of their role as protectors.
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
This passage calls for advocacy on behalf of those who lack a voice, particularly the marginalized and needy. It urges individuals to stand up for justice, fairness, and the protection of basic human rights.
In cases of police killings, this verse highlights the importance of law enforcement officers using their positions to speak up and advocate for those who have been unjustly affected. It is a call for them to champion the rights of the vulnerable and ensure that justice is served.
Proverbs 14:31
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”
This verse highlights the deeper significance and spiritual implications of actions towards the poor and needy. Oppressing the poor is seen as contempt for God, while showing kindness to the needy is regarded as an act of honor towards God.
In the context of police killings, this verse emphasizes the gravity of harming or oppressing the vulnerable. It underscores the responsibility of law enforcement officers to treat every individual, regardless of their background or social status, with kindness and dignity.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
These verses describe the virtues that should be evident in the lives of those who have the Holy Spirit. They highlight qualities such as love, peace, kindness, and self-control.
For law enforcement officers, these verses serve as a reminder of the importance of embodying the fruits of the Spirit in their interactions with the community. By cultivating these virtues, they foster an environment of trust, respect, and justice.
Proverbs 24:23-25
“These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good: Whoever says to the guilty, ‘You are innocent,’ will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.”
In this passage, partiality in judgment is condemned while impartiality is commended. It warns against declaring the guilty as innocent and describes the negative consequences of such actions.
When it comes to police killings, these verses underscore the importance of impartiality in law enforcement. To unjustly absolve the guilty or condemn the innocent is a grave offense, bringing dishonor and disapproval. Conversely, justice is upheld when the guilty are convicted and the innocent are protected.
Psalms 94:20-21
“Can a corrupt throne be allied with you—a throne that brings on misery by its decrees? The wicked band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death.”
This psalm highlights the incongruity of a corrupt ruling authority and its alignment with God. It identifies the suffering caused by unjust decrees and the collaboration of the wicked to condemn the innocent.
Applied to police killings, these verses bring attention to the injustice that arises when those in positions of power engage in corrupt or unjust actions. When law enforcement officers betray their duty to protect and serve, they participate in condemning the innocent to death, perpetuating suffering and grieving the heart of God.
Psalms 9:7-9
“The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
These verses affirm God’s sovereignty and his role as the ultimate judge. They testify to his righteousness and his commitment to equity and justice. The Lord is also portrayed as a source of refuge and strength for the oppressed.
For those affected by police killings, these verses offer solace and hope. They remind us that even when human systems of justice fail, God remains the ultimate judge. He is a shelter for the oppressed and a stronghold in times of trouble.
Romans 12:19
“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.”
Here, believers are instructed not to seek vengeance but to trust in God’s justice. The verse emphasizes that the responsibility for avenging wrongdoing lies solely with the Lord.
In the context of police killings, this verse discourages individuals and communities from taking matters into their own hands. Instead, it calls for trust in God’s ultimate justice and the hope that He will bring about the appropriate consequences for those who have acted unlawfully.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares peacemakers as blessed, recognizing them as children of God. This beatitude highlights the importance of pursuing peace and resolving conflicts.
In the context of police killings, this verse reminds law enforcement officers of their role as peacemakers. Upholding the value of human life, promoting peace, and working towards reconciliation and justice should be fundamental aspects of their duty.
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
These verses list seven detestable things in the eyes of the Lord, including the shedding of innocent blood and stirring up conflict within a community. They highlight actions that are contrary to God’s desire for righteousness and justice.
Applied to police killings, these verses condemn the act of shedding innocent blood, revealing God’s abhorrence for the wrongful taking of human life. They call for law enforcement officers to embody righteousness and reject actions that sow discord within the communities they are called to serve.
Proverbs 21:3
“To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
In this verse, the pursuit of righteousness and justice is elevated above religious rituals or offerings. It demonstrates God’s desire for tangible acts of goodness and justice rather than empty religious practices.
Regarding police killings, this verse emphasizes the need for law enforcement officers to prioritize upholding what is right and just in their actions. Focusing on maintaining and promoting justice holds greater value in God’s eyes than any external act of sacrifice or worship.
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
Isaiah calls upon the people of Israel to actively pursue justice and stand up for the rights of the oppressed. It is a call to take action and advocate on behalf of those who are marginalized or vulnerable.
Applied to police killings, this verse challenges law enforcement officers to actively seek justice, particularly for the oppressed and marginalized in society. It encompasses defending those who cannot defend themselves and standing as advocates for those who have been wronged.
Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”
In this rebuke from Jesus, he criticizes the religious leaders for prioritizing minor rituals while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He urges them to prioritize the weightier matters of the law.
These words are relevant to police killings, reminding law enforcement officers to focus on the essential aspects of their duty. Justice, mercy, and faithfulness should take precedence over any outward displays or rituals, emphasizing the importance of their role in upholding the law with integrity.
Psalms 10:17-18
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.”
In this psalm, the psalmist acknowledges God as the one who hears the prayers of the afflicted, offers encouragement, and defends the fatherless and oppressed. It acknowledges God’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable and bringing justice.
For those affected by police killings, these verses provide solace and assurance. They remind us that God is attentive to the cries of the afflicted and will work to ensure that justice prevails. The act of unjustly taking lives will not instill continued terror if God is entrusted with the cause.