Murder. Is it justifiable?

As I continue my research on my topic an issue that keeps approaching is; the issue of faith and religious beliefs of the victims family and whether the death penalty is justifiable. A particular article that caught my eye was an article in a newspaper, “Death Penalty Arguments.” Written by an aunt and uncle who's precious nephew was helplessly murdered. The article argues the pros and cons of the death penalty. It also argues that it is justifiable due to the history of the death penalty (playing into faith and religion). Evidence from the article states, “Capital punishment was used in ancient times to punish a variety of offenses. Even the bible advocates death for murder and other crimes...”(more from www.prodeathpenalty.com)This leaves the issue of whether faith and religious beliefs should be considered. Next, was the issue of whether it is changing people or not. An article that was written and published by the New York Times, “Does the Death Penalty Save Lives?” viewed both sides of the opinion(more from www.nytimes.com). This article shows research studies that suggest that the death penalty has stricken fear in the hearts of citizens. Evidence shows that for each inmate put to death, 3 to 18 murders were prevented. However; certain states such as Texas are fast to jump to execution and execute inmates relativity quickly. Leaving the question, is the death penalty being taken advantage of? Personally, I am for the death penalty. My opinion has not really changed much changed, accept for under certain circumstances. I believe that if someone were to murder someone and show remorse that the murderer should get the chance to prove he/she is a changed person. If he/she shows no remorse and murders countless people then I don't feel they should have a right to live. If it was not self defense and they murdered just for a sick thrill and the evidence against them is obvious then they have no right to live.  At some point I think the family should choose. Which leaves us with these questions, Should the death penalty be influenced by faith and religious beliefs? Should the defendant’s life lie in the hands of the victims family? Is murder justifiable?