Chad Orton: We must forgive those who actually repent

Re “No, I Can’t Forgive the S.C. Shooter,” (Opinions, June 26): I suggest writer Alex Beam is right that Dylann Roof should not be forgiven, but wrong about his reasons. It is not the heinousness of Roof’s actions that precludes forgiveness, but the fact he does not repent of his sin.

Jesus’ teachings make it clear that God offers forgiveness to all, but forgives only those who are sincerely repentant and willing to enter into a changed life. Jesus’ admonition to Peter to forgive his brother seven times seven has an interesting context. Jesus has just told his disciples that unless the people in Capernaum repent they will not be forgiven but will experience eternal punishment. He then teaches that if you offer forgiveness to an offending brother, and he disdains your offer, you are to no longer treat him as a brother. Peter’s question has in mind those who repent but then mess up again. He wouldn’t ask how many times he was to forgive the one whom Jesus had just told him not to forgive.

The forgiveness Christians are offering to Roof becomes valid only if he sincerely repents. The evidence would be if he is willing to embrace and be embraced by those he attacked, and offers to do all he can to make amends.

This story was originally published June 29, 2015 at 12:20 PM with the headline "Chad Orton: We must forgive those who actually repent."