Topical Encyclopedia The concept of execution, or the carrying out of a death sentence, is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting both divine justice and human legal systems. Execution in biblical times was often a public event, serving as a deterrent to crime and a demonstration of the seriousness of sin and disobedience.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, execution was prescribed for a variety of offenses, particularly those that violated the covenantal laws given to Israel. The Mosaic Law outlined specific crimes that warranted the death penalty, including murder (Exodus 21:12), adultery (Leviticus 20:10), idolatry (Deuteronomy 17:2-5), and blasphemy (Leviticus 24:16). The method of execution varied, with stoning being one of the most common forms (Deuteronomy 13:10). The principle of "an eye for an eye" (Exodus 21:24) underpinned the justice system, emphasizing proportional retribution. This lex talionis was intended to limit excessive punishment and ensure justice was served fairly. New Testament Context In the New Testament, execution is most prominently seen in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Roman method of execution by crucifixion was reserved for the most serious offenses and was a brutal and public form of punishment. Jesus' execution, though carried out by Roman authorities, was instigated by Jewish leaders who accused Him of blasphemy and sedition (Matthew 26:65-66; John 19:7). The execution of Jesus is central to Christian theology, as it is seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the means by which humanity is offered redemption. Isaiah 53:5 prophesies, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." The New Testament also records the execution of early Christian martyrs, such as Stephen, who was stoned for his faith (Acts 7:58-60). These executions highlight the tension between the early Christian community and the prevailing religious and political authorities. Theological Implications Execution in the Bible serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness with which God views disobedience. It underscores the holiness and justice of God, who cannot tolerate sin. At the same time, the execution of Jesus Christ reveals the depth of God's love and mercy, as He provided a way for humanity to be reconciled to Him through the sacrificial death of His Son. The Bible's treatment of execution also reflects the tension between justice and mercy, law and grace. While the Old Testament law demanded justice, the New Testament reveals the grace of God through Jesus Christ, who took upon Himself the penalty for sin, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe (Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord"). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Execute.Greek 337. anaireo -- to take up, take away, make an end ... Word Origin from ana and haireo Definition to take up, take away, make an end NASB Word Usage do away (1), executed (1), kill (4), killed (2), put...to death (8 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/337.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 6213a. asah -- do, make... done (327), done you will do (1), done* (1), earns (1), established (1), establishes (1), evildoer* (2), evildoers* (1), execute (24), executed (10), executes ... /hebrew/6213a.htm - 8k 5648. abad -- to make, do Library Mr. Evil-Questioning Tried and Executed Sentence Pronounced and Executed. The Early Versions Examined, and Found to Yield Unfaltering ... The Early Versions Examined, and Found to Yield Unfaltering ... Accidental Causes of Corruption. To the Rev. J. Jowett Paul in Malta and Rome. Jesus in the Tomb. Misused Respite The Personal History of Herod - the Two Worlds in Jerusalem. Thesaurus Executed (39 Occurrences)...Executed (39 Occurrences). ... (See NIV). Luke 1:8 Now it happened, while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his division, (WEB KJV ASV WBS). ... /e/executed.htm - 18k Inflict (25 Occurrences) Jezreel (37 Occurrences) Gihon (6 Occurrences) Withholds (11 Occurrences) Intents (3 Occurrences) Excessive (12 Occurrences) Equity (19 Occurrences) Executes (11 Occurrences) Done (6507 Occurrences) Resources Why did John Calvin have Michael Servetus burned at the stake for heresy? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Rizpah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Joan of Arc? | GotQuestions.org Executed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Executed (39 Occurrences)Matthew 27:20 Luke 1:8 Luke 23:32 Acts 12:19 Acts 13:28 Acts 24:2 Numbers 33:4 Deuteronomy 33:21 2 Samuel 8:15 1 Kings 7:40 2 Kings 10:30 2 Kings 14:5 2 Kings 25:21 1 Chronicles 6:10 1 Chronicles 18:14 1 Chronicles 24:2 2 Chronicles 24:24 2 Chronicles 25:3 Ezra 7:26 Esther 9:1 Psalms 9:16 Psalms 99:4 Psalms 106:30 Ecclesiastes 8:11 Jeremiah 23:20 Jeremiah 25:31 Jeremiah 30:24 Jeremiah 52:27 Ezekiel 11:12 Ezekiel 18:8 Ezekiel 18:17 Ezekiel 20:24 Ezekiel 23:10 Ezekiel 28:22 Ezekiel 28:26 Ezekiel 39:21 Daniel 2:18 Micah 7:9 Zephaniah 2:3 Subtopics Related Terms |