Whenever the subject of capital punishment is discussed, it usually sparks a heated and often passionate biblical debate among Christians. When a heinous crime is committed, does the Bible mandate, permit, or prohibit execution of a criminal? As Christians we must be ever prayerful and carefully research this subject so that we are not presumptuous concerning the death penalty. We should desire justice and not outright vengeance, for Scripture teaches us, " 'Vengeance is mine,' says the Lord."