Biblical explanation
gives a powerful invitation: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him.” The apostle John gives a direct promise: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (). The apostle Paul provides an especially powerful example. Before his conversion, he persecuted Christians and attempted to destroy the church (; ). Yet he received mercy and became a servant of Christ. Jesus also forgave people who had committed serious sins. Peter denied Jesus three times, yet Christ restored him (). David committed adultery and arranged the death of Bathsheba's husband, yet after genuine repentance he received forgiveness (; ). The gospel is therefore not a message that certain ordinary sins are too terrible for God to forgive. The central question is whether a person will turn to Christ in repentance and faith. God's forgiveness is not permission to continue deliberately in sin. Paul asks, “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?” and answers, “God forbid” (). Forgiveness and transformation belong together. God not only pardons the repentant sinner but calls that person into a new life.
In brief
gives a powerful invitation: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him.
Bible references
Go deeper into this topic Saved by Grace: Why Did Jesus Have to Die? Start the studyThis answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.