Romans 13:1-5 states that those in civil authority are ministers of God for our good. For those who observe and obey the authorities and the law, the law will work to their benefit. But judgment awaits whoever rebels against the law and resists that authority. Disobedience to the law permits those in authority to have the right to execute judgment.

Paul makes it clear there is no authority except that which God has ordained, and the authorities that exist have been established by God to enable us to lead quiet and peaceful lives. The law is good when it is used carefully to protect the righteous from the lawless and disobedient. The Roman government (world system) utilized capital punishment. Luke 23:33, 39-41 states the malefactors hanged with Jesus were in the same condemnation, justly, for they received the due reward of their deeds. But Jesus was crucified unjustly, for he committed no wrong.

As long as there are wicked and unreasonable men influenced by the devil, the world’s system of law and order will continue to have a form of capital punishment.