What is the law of retribution?

from the old testament

• The law of retribution, also known as the law of retaliation or lex talionis, is the principle of direct reciprocal justice expressed in the phrase "an eye for an eye" found in Exodus 21:23–25 and Deuteronomy 19:21. The purpose of this law was to restrict the response to the crime so it would be proportional to the offense. This law prevented the victim or the judicial courts from exacting disproportional revenge on the perpetrator.
• Deuteronomy 19:19–20 explains the purpose of the law of retribution as removing the danger from society and as deterring other potential criminals. "So you shall purge the evil from your midst. And the rest shall hear and fear, and shall never again commit any such evil among you."
• God commanded His people, "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18). Therefore, rather than being a harsh call for barbaric revenge, this law of retribution was a law that restricted the extent of punishment and put an end to feuds and vendettas.
• Psalm 119 declares that God's laws are good (Psalm 119:39), righteous (Psalm 119:75), and right (Psalm 119:137). They bring delight (Psalm 119:35), hope (Psalm 119:43), and comfort (Psalm 119:52) to those who follow them. Psalm 119:165 says, "Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble." When the concept of retributive justice is understood in the context of preventing feuds and vendettas, it is easy to see how this law is good and brings peace to societies that follow it.
• Throughout the Bible we see that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:6–7). God calls us to reflect this character to others. Along with His grace and mercy, God is also just. Deuteronomy 32:4 says, "The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he."

from the new testament

• In Matthew 5:38–42, Jesus calls His followers to an even higher standard of how to treat wrongdoers. He said, "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you." Believers are called to approach situations where they may be tempted to hold a grudge or seek revenge with a generous and forgiving spirit. This forgiveness and generosity reflect the mercy and grace God has extended through Jesus' work on the cross. This does not mean that there are no consequences for others’ actions. God is just. This does mean that our hearts are tender toward people, allowing God to be the Judge.
• Paul succinctly told the Colossians, "As the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive" (Colossians 3:13). God calls us to exhibit restraint, mercy, and grace that is consistent with God's character.
• God is also just. Until His ultimate judgment comes, God has set up governments and courts to maintain justice and order in societies. Romans 13:1 and 4 say, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God… For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer." In that context, the law of retribution, where reasonable punishment in proportion to the crime is administered by the appropriate authority in order to protect society from danger and prevent future crimes, is still a wise law.

implications for today

As a Christian, understanding the balance between forgiveness and justice is crucial. Jesus calls His followers to forgive as they have been forgiven, promoting a heart of mercy and grace (Colossians 3:13). This forgiveness reflects the immense grace God extended through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. However, this does not eliminate the need for justice. Reasonable punishment, administered fairly by appropriate authorities, is necessary to maintain order and deter wrongdoing. Christians are called to refrain from personal vengeance and instead to trust in God’s justice, recognizing that governments and courts are established by God to uphold justice in society (Romans 13:1, 4). By embodying forgiveness in personal interactions while supporting just and fair consequences for wrongdoings, Christians can contribute to a society that values both mercy and justice, reflecting the character of God.