FORGIVE

Promoting the Christian concept of forgiveness to an unforgiving world.

Pastor and theologian Keller, author of The Reason for God, The Meaning of Marriage, Hope in Times of Fear, and many other bestselling Christian-focused books, introduces forgiveness through the biblical parable of the unforgiving servant. Using this story, the author concludes that forgiveness, as understood in Christianity, has three dimensions: “First there is the vertical— God’s forgiveness to us. Second there is the internal—our granting forgiveness to anyone who has wronged us. Third there is the horizontal—our offer to reconcile. The horizontal is based on the internal and the internal is based on the vertical.” Keller contrasts these teachings with modern culture, which is a “reverse honor culture—also called ‘cancel culture’—that ends up valuing not strength but fragility and creates a society of constant good-versus-evil conflict.” Such a culture “sweeps away the very concept of forgiveness and reconciliation,” leaving us with a view of forgiveness as being anti-justice and anti-victim. Under such an ethos, forgiveness must be earned. After these introductory concepts, Keller goes on to explain how Christian ideas of forgiveness do indeed provide for justice, allow healing for victims, and promote a healthier society. He notes that God’s offer of forgiveness for us, a motif found throughout the Hebrew Bible and Christian New Testament, is the basis on which we can forgive others. In other words, one’s ability to forgive begins with an acknowledgement that all people need forgiveness. Keller also explains that forgiveness is at its best in the context of reconciliation with another. If that is not possible, then it can still be a meaningful tool in finding peace and controlling anger. The author presents a solid defense of Christian forgiveness theology within a modern, relevant context, quoting sources as varied as Augustine, Adele, Kafka, and Clint Eastwood.

Refreshing, accessible work on the basics of forgiveness from a Christian perspective.