Definition and Concept
Due punishment refers to the just and appropriate consequences or penalties for wrongdoing, as outlined in the Bible. It is rooted in the divine justice of God, who is portrayed as both merciful and just. The concept of due punishment underscores the moral order established by God, where sin and disobedience necessitate correction and retribution.

Biblical Foundation
The Bible consistently affirms that God is a righteous judge who administers justice fairly. In Deuteronomy 32:4, God is described as "a God of faithfulness and without injustice; righteous and upright is He." This foundational belief in God's justice underpins the biblical understanding of due punishment.

Old Testament Context
In the Old Testament, the Law given to Israel through Moses contains numerous examples of due punishment. The principle of "an eye for an eye" (Exodus 21:24) illustrates the idea of proportional justice, where the punishment corresponds to the offense. This principle is part of the broader Mosaic Law, which includes various penalties for different transgressions, ranging from restitution to capital punishment.

The account of Achan in Joshua 7 exemplifies due punishment. Achan's sin of taking forbidden items during the conquest of Jericho led to Israel's defeat at Ai. When his sin was revealed, Achan and his family faced severe consequences, demonstrating the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands.

New Testament Perspective
In the New Testament, the concept of due punishment is further developed with the introduction of grace through Jesus Christ. While the New Testament emphasizes forgiveness and redemption, it does not negate the reality of divine justice. Romans 6:23 states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This verse highlights the ultimate consequence of sin—spiritual death—while also pointing to the hope of salvation.

The New Testament also addresses the role of earthly authorities in administering justice. Romans 13:4 describes governing authorities as "God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This passage underscores the legitimacy of civil justice systems in maintaining order and executing due punishment.

Eternal Punishment
The Bible speaks of eternal punishment as the ultimate consequence for those who reject God. In Matthew 25:46, Jesus speaks of the final judgment, stating, "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." This eternal separation from God is depicted as the due punishment for unrepentant sin.

Divine Mercy and Justice
While due punishment is a significant biblical theme, it is always balanced with the message of divine mercy. God’s desire is for repentance and restoration rather than punishment. Ezekiel 33:11 expresses this heart of God: "As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked should turn from their ways and live."

Conclusion
The biblical concept of due punishment reflects the character of God as just and righteous. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for accountability, while also pointing to the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.