In a culture where the concept of justice and how it is achieved has come to the
forefront of media and discussions, it is important for Christians to have a well-
thought-out response regarding the relationship between the prison system and
justice. Some Christians have taken the position that all Christians should desire
restorative justice mainly, although the New Testament would suggest that
punishment is appropriate in some cases (Rom 13:4). Others would contend that
crimes deserve the punishment that comes accordingly by the law. However, it
seems that true justice would be achieved when the response to the criminality
is appropriate and proportionate to the crime. This brings into question how
Christians should feel about our current prison system in the U.S., specifically in
regard to minor drug charges which leave many young men and women in
prison. Christians have to wonder if these extensive punishments are
proportionate to the crime and representative of biblical justice. If not, Christians
must consider what their responsibilities are in the matter and what alternatives
exist. McQuilken and Copan offer a few alternatives when considering how the
prison system might be reformed (McQuilken and Copan, 437). The authors
appear to primarily suggest some type of financial or privilege loss in response to
nonviolent crimes. However, the present author believes that this type of
punishment would only encourage nonviolent crime (especially the sell of illegal
drugs) as a means of financially compensating for the aforementioned
punishments. Community service is also suggested, especially for Juvenile
defenders. While this may be helpful for Juveniles, the present writer questions
whether this will be effective in deterring crime in the lives of adult offenders.
The present writer would suggest a tiered punishment process that begins with
rehabilitation and progresses toward more disciplinary punishment. For example,
an initial nonviolent crime could result in a specific period of time in confinement
followed by a specified period of time in a rehabilitative facility. A second offense
could result in similar consequences, but for a longer period of time and a more
extensive stay in rehabilitation. A third offense could result only in confinement,
for a longer period of time. This structure of consequences reflects both the
mercy of grace and Christ, while also holding the unrepentant accountable and
protecting the innocent by preventing repeat offenders from quickly returning to
society. Christians should aim for consequences that display both grace and
justice, while seeking to protect the innocent and restore those who are willing to
be restored. (Word Count: 414)
