The criminal justice system seems to be flawed when it comes to dealing
with those who violate the law as it relates to illegal substances. Many
American citizens are serving prison sentences for drug-related offenses.
Some of these individuals are even serving life sentences for marijuana-
related offenses. The punishment for this crime, including the overall cost
to house, feed, and medically treat these people seems unequal to the
crime itself.
Authors McQuilkin and Copan write that the “Scripture teaches that
environment has a very powerful influence on a person.”[1]+If it is our goal
to become responsible citizens and Christians regarding crime and
punishment, we must take an honest look at the legal system. The
authors also write that “Blaming society means abdicating personal
responsibility for the direction of one’s life. And this refusal to own up to
one’s wrongdoing shuts the door to the possibility of salvation by God’s
grace.”[2]+Addressing the way society contributes to crime is important.
