Forgiveness

Some people might think that because Christians believe in forgiveness, they don’t believe in punishment. However, as teaching about forgiveness, Jesus also spoke about justice. He spoke about God’s punishment for wrongdoers in the next life. On Judgement Day, God will judge all humans according to how they have behaved. Christians believe it is up to God to judge people and he will forgive those who are truly sorry for what they have done and want to change. Most Christians believe that punishment and forgiveness can go together. Many Christians see the main role of punishment as being able to help the person involved reform. Christians also need to look at the motives and reasons for the crime and should be actively involved in trying to create a better and fairer society where people don’t feel the need to turn to crime.

The Unforgiving Servant:

‘How many times shall i forgive my brother who sins against me? I tell you not  times but 77 ×7’

Mathew 18:21-22

Jesus made it clear there was no limit to forgiveness. The sister of Anthony Walker used this quote when she was asked if she could forgive the person who killed her brother.

The Lord’s Prayer:

‘Forgive their sins, as they forgive those who have sinned against them’

Christians are not open to God’s mercy if they are not forgiving towards others.

‘For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive other’s sin, your father will not forgive your sins’

Mather 6:14-15

If you forgive those who sin against you, God will forgive you when you sin against him.

The women caught in adultery:

‘Go and sin no more’

John 8:1-11

Everyone has sinned and God is the judge. When forgiven, Christians should not repeat the sins. They should REFORM.

The parable of the Prodigal Son:

God forgives and welcomes us back even though we have done wrong. God forgives if we REPENT.

Jesus on the cross: 

‘Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing’

Luke 23:34

Jesus showed forgiveness in the last moments of his life as he was put to death. This is an example for all Christians and one we must follow.