Can We Forgive When the Offender Doesn’t Repent?

“Some theologians argue it’s wrong to forgive an impenitent offender, while others say it’s wrong not to. Let’s review the arguments for both options and see if we can find a solution.” - TGC

Discussion

This is a truly helpful contribution to the debate: it helps bring the points of disagreement into focus, doesn’t ignore the realities involved, and suggests an interesting third option.

My interest in the topic is mostly this: That all the aspects of the relationship be recognized and dealt with in a Christian and biblical way. So, regardless of what terms we use for the realities of hurt in relationships, there are multiple pieces involved—including unilateral responsibilities we have with our attitudes and interactions when a person is not repentant.

Views expressed are always my own and not my employer's, my church's, my family's, my neighbors', or my pets'. The house plants have authorized me to speak for them, however, and they always agree with me.