In Christianity, the practice of stoning people to death as a form of capital punishment is not followed. This reflects a significant shift from certain laws found in the Old Testament, where stoning was prescribed for various offenses. The teachings and example of Jesus Christ in the New Testament bring a new perspective on justice, mercy, and forgiveness that moves away from such practices.

A key moment in the New Testament that illustrates this shift is found in the Gospel according to John, chapter 8, verses 3-11. This passage recounts the story of the adulterous woman brought before Jesus by the scribes and Pharisees, in an attempt to trap Him into saying something they could use against Him. They remind Jesus that the Law of Moses commanded stoning such women, and they ask Him what He says about the situation. Jesus responds by saying, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” Convicted by their own consciences, the accusers leave one by one. After they are gone, Jesus speaks to the woman, telling her, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.”

This episode underscores the Christian emphasis on forgiveness, repentance, and transformation of life over the application of the death penalty. It reflects Jesus’ teaching on showing mercy and leaving judgment to God. As such, in Christianity, the focus is on spiritual renewal and the saving of souls rather than on physical punishment.

Throughout the history of Christianity, various practices have emerged, and at times, certain groups have used capital punishment. However, these actions are not in line with the teachings of mercy, forgiveness, and love central to the message of Jesus Christ. The predominant Christian perspective today advocates for compassion, understanding, and the value of every human life, following the example and teachings of Jesus.

The perception that God changes His mind on punishments between the Old Testament and the New Testament raises important questions about the nature of God, His consistency, and the development of divine revelation through the Bible. It is essential to understand that God’s nature is described as unchanging. As stated in Malachi 3:6, “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”

The apparent differences in how God deals with humanity between the Old and New Testaments can be attributed to the unfolding of God’s plan of salvation and the progressive revelation of His character and will. The Old Testament often emphasizes justice, the consequences of sin, and the holiness of God, establishing a framework of law and order that governs the relationship between God and His people. This includes various laws and prescriptions for the Israelites, including punishments for certain transgressions.

The New Testament, while not negating the holiness of God or the seriousness of sin, brings the fulfillment of the Law through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies God’s grace and mercy, offering forgiveness and the possibility of a transformed life to all who believe in Him. This does not mean that God has changed; rather, it reveals more fully God’s plan to redeem humanity from sin. The apostle Paul explains in Galatians 3:24 that “the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”

The shift from the emphasis on strict justice to grace and mercy does not indicate a change in God’s character but rather a deeper revelation of His love and His desire for a relationship with humanity. In the New Testament, the focus is on spiritual rebirth and reconciliation with God through Jesus, rather than on physical punishments.

It’s also important to recognize that the essence of God’s moral law—His standards of right and wrong, justice and mercy—remains consistent throughout the Bible. The New Testament continues to call for righteousness, but it also offers a new way to achieve a right standing before God, not based on human effort but through faith in Jesus Christ.

In summary, the transition from the Old to the New Testament reflects the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan and a fuller revelation of His character. It does not signify a change in God Himself but demonstrates His consistent nature of justice, mercy, and love throughout the entire biblical narrative.