A case for why Old Testament penology continues to be our standard of justice, but suggesting a different (more flexible) interpretation of Old Testament penology than has usually been given.
Dr. Kayser argues that the principles of justice behind the Old Testament civil penalties were intended for more than Israel, and demonstrates how the New Testament specifically upholds Old Testament criminal justice. However — he also provides a corrective to common theonomic views of biblical penology, arguing that these penalties — including for capital crimes — were designed to be applied flexibly, for restorative purposes, and taking into account victims' rights.
The book centers around the debate over the death penalty, arguing that the death penalty was not mandatory in God's law (except in cases of murder), and that God's purposes were restoration and repentance in the criminal, not death. It answers 13 common objections to applying biblical penology today (especially the death penalty), showing how God's beautiful, flexible legal framework was designed to provide both mercy and justice to victim, accused, and perpetrator alike.
If you're unsure of how much of God's Old Testament standard of justice should be considered relevant today, this handbook is both a quick read and a must-read.
(Previously titled Is the Death Penalty Just?)
What Readers Are Saying:
"This is probably the best book on theonomy that I have read to date, simply because of the brevity and clarity with which Mr. Kayser explains Old Testament Law. It's something that I would give to a person who is interested in learning about theonomy, but is unfamiliar with the topic. (Make no mistake though, it's also chock full of detailed information for a serious reader on the subject.) The title would lead one to believe it only covers penal sanctions, but it's actually a lot broader of a look than just that. I also really liked Mr. Kayser's specific take on capital punishment. ...It's not a complete defense and delineation of theonomy, but it's a wonderful start." - Rachel (Goodreads) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This was a gem of a read. Following that admonition of Greg Bahnsen in his books and lectures in theology, theonomists have a lot of homework to do in exegesis and application regarding the Old Testament civil laws. Kayser does a terrific job of giving great exegetical and theological insight into the death penalty and when it should or is allowed to be applied according to Biblical principles. This was a great read and highly recommended!" - Adam (Goodreads) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This was a very insightful introduction to biblical civil justice and penology.... Dr. Kayser brings in a lot of Scripture to bear on the subject of the death penalty. While he focuses on the death penalty in particular, he ends up giving a good framework for biblical justice and civil punishment." - Peter (Goodreads) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Good. Like a condensed "Victim's Rights" by Gary North with a few differences of opinion." - Austin (Goodreads) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
