Early in our “Christian” nation’s history, penal substitution was understood to mean that all crime is generally understood as sin, and sin is an affront to God. Therefore all crime must be both punished and atoned for. Penal substitution therefore emphasizes the need for penalties, retribution, and recompense. This is the standard approach within our criminal justice system; justice comes through indictment, sentencing, and punishment. Punishment is seen as something that will correct unrighteousness and lead to the restoration of individuals and reconciled relationships.
