TEP - Crime and Punishment

What is a law?

A rule created by a country that must be obeyed, or face legal punishment.

What defines a crime?

Any action which is against the law.

What are people found guilty of breaking a law called?

Criminals.

What is original sin according to Christian beliefs?

The tendency to sin or do evil inherited from Adam and Eve.

Who is believed to tempt people to do evil in Christian theology?

The devil, represented as the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

What are some examples of good actions that are not specified in the law?

Generosity, charity, and love.

List some reasons for crime according to the notes.

Poverty, upbringing, mental illness, addiction, greed, hate, opposition to an unjust law.

How can poverty lead to crime?

People may steal essentials they cannot afford.

What impact can upbringing have on criminal behavior?

Growing up in a home where crime is a way of life can encourage criminal behavior.

What is kleptomania?

A mental condition that compels people to steal.

How does addiction relate to crime?

Addicts may steal to obtain what they need.

What is the Christian view on stealing?

Christians condemn stealing and believe in helping one another to prevent it.

What do Christians believe about obeying the law?

Everyone should obey the law, regardless of their upbringing.

What is the Christian stance on punishment for illness?

People should receive help for their illness but also the punishment they deserve.

What does the 10 Commandments say about greed?

It states not to 'covet' or be jealous of what others have.

What is the Christian view on hatred?

Hatred is condemned because love is central to Christian morality.

What do Christians believe about the treatment of lawbreakers?

Lawbreakers should be treated humanely and have rights protected.

What is the Christian view on theft?

Christians are against theft but can understand stealing out of necessity.

What do Christians believe about murder?

Christians are against murder, believing in the sanctity of life.

What does the Bible say about visiting prisoners?

Jesus said, 'For I was in prison and you came to visit me.' (Matthew 25:36)

What is the Christian perspective on the right to take life?

Christians believe that only God has the right to give and take life.

What biblical quote supports the concept of capital punishment in Christianity?

"Life for life, eye for eye." (Exodus 21:23-25)

What are hate crimes?

Hate crimes are violent actions against someone because of their race, religion, sexuality, disability, or gender.

Why do Christians oppose hate crimes?

Christians believe that God created all humans equal, as stated in Galatians 3:28: 'There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.'

What is retribution in the context of punishment?

Retribution is an aim of punishment to get your own back, where the punishment matches the severity of the crime.

Why do Christians generally oppose retribution?

Christians oppose retribution because it teaches revenge and anger, and Jesus overturned the 'eye for an eye' teaching.

What is deterrence as an aim of punishment?

Deterrence aims to discourage people from committing crimes by using punishment as a warning.

What is the Christian stance on deterrent punishments that cause harm?

Most Christians agree with deterrence but do not support punishments that cause physical or mental harm to the criminal.

What is reformation in the context of punishment?

Reformation aims to change someone's behavior for the better, helping criminals understand their actions and encouraging them to become law-abiding citizens.

What do Christians believe about helping those who are suffering?

Christians believe they should help others who are suffering, following Jesus' example.

What does Romans 5:3-4 say about suffering?

It states that 'Suffering produces perseverance; character and hope.'

What is the UK approach to punishment for crimes?

Punishment can range from long-term prison sentences to fines, with a focus on treating victims with dignity.

What is the importance of reformation in deciding punishment?

Reformation is considered the most important part of deciding punishment because if the criminal changes, it benefits society.

What does Matthew 5:38-42 teach about responding to evil?

It teaches to turn the other cheek and not resist an evil person.

What is the significance of Romans 12:19-21 in Christian views on punishment?

It emphasizes the importance of loving one's enemies and showing kindness, even to those who have wronged us.

What should Christians do if they cause suffering to others?

They should feel sorry, apologize, and try to repair any damage caused.

What is the Christian belief about the purpose of suffering?

Christians believe good can come from suffering as it provides opportunities to be compassionate and build character.

What is the general view of Christians on causing suffering to others?

Christians are against causing suffering because Jesus taught that we should love one another.

What does the term 'treatment of criminals' refer to in the UK context?

It refers to the approach of ensuring dignity for victims and focusing on reformation as a key aspect of punishment.

What is the typical punishment for serious crimes in the UK?

Serious crimes typically result in prison sentences.

What is the purpose of high security prisons for criminals?

To keep individuals who are a threat to society or themselves, resulting in a loss of freedom.

What do Christians believe about the role of prisons in society?

Prisons protect the community and should support the reformation process by providing education and training.

What is corporal punishment?

Punishment that causes physical pain to the criminal, considered a breach of human rights by many.

What is the status of corporal punishment in the UK?

It is illegal, but allowed in other parts of the world.

What do some Christians believe about corporal punishment?

Some believe causing pain is unacceptable, while others reference the Old Testament which supports discipline.

What does Proverbs 13:24 say about discipline?

"He who spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them."

What is community service in the context of criminal punishment?

Unpaid work that allows criminals to make amends, often involving tasks like picking up litter.

What is the Christian perspective on community service as a punishment?

Most Christians agree it is suitable for minor offenses because it offers a chance to reform.

What do Christians believe about forgiveness towards criminals?

Some believe it should only be offered if the wrongdoer is sorry, while others believe it should always be given.

What does Luke 17:3 say about forgiveness?

"If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him."

What does the Lord's Prayer teach about forgiveness?

"Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us."

How many times did Jesus say we should forgive?

Seventy-seven times, indicating an unlimited amount of forgiveness.

What are some arguments for the death penalty?

It is justifiable for serious crimes, deters crime, and protects society by removing criminals permanently.

What biblical principle supports the death penalty?

The Principle of Utility and verses like Genesis 9:6 and Exodus 21:23.

What are some arguments against the death penalty?

Innocent people may be executed, it does not deter crime, and it undermines the sanctity of life.

What does Exodus 20:13 say regarding murder?

"You shall not murder."

What does Matthew 5:38-42 teach about responding to violence?

"If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also."

What is the Christian belief regarding the sanctity of life?

All human life is sacred, and only God has the right to take life.

What is the significance of community service in the reformation process?

It allows criminals to contribute positively to society and learn from their mistakes.

What was the status of corporal punishment in schools in the UK?

It was allowed until 1987.

What do Christians think about public punishments?

Many oppose them, believing every human should be treated with dignity and respect.

What is the relationship between forgiveness and punishment in Christian belief?

Forgiveness is not a replacement for punishment; both can coexist.