In Luke 5:31-32 Jesus said, "They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Repentance is open to EVERYONE. Christ atoned for ALL of our sins, and we can be forgiven if we are willing to repent.
We are all in need of the forgiving power of the Atonement.
My understanding is that Christ is the only one who has the power to forgive sins because He already paid the price for them - justice was paid in full, and Christ can now show mercy to those who repent and their debt has already been paid.
Yet we are commanded "to forgive all men." (D&C 64:8-11)
It isn't even a requirement for the offender to have repented in order for us to forgive him/her. We don't make the sin go away when we forgive - only Christ can do that. When we forgive we aren't saying that we condone the sin. I don't completely understand it, but I do know that because my vision is extremely limited I cannot honestly judge another - "Let God judge" (D&C 64:11) I think this is part of why we need to forgive. I also know that the greater sin lies with the person who does not forgive. (D&C 64:9)
When the woman was taken in the act of adlutery and brought before Christ, He said, "He that is without sin among you, Let him first cast a stone at her." (John 8:7) He didn't say, "He who has never committed adultery cast the first stone." This tells me that we do not have the right to condemn others for their sins - even if we are free from the sin ourselves.
"Succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees." (D&C 81:5)
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Somketimes it just takes a while for the forgiver to forgive. it can't and usually won't happen overnight. Some things are developed over time. And, as we age, perhaps for some, developement of the thr trait of forgivness comes a bit faster. Of course, it could go the other way too.
ReplyDeleteI also agree in "succoring the weak..." as long as the weak aren't flailing a knife at you where they can damage you. what good are you if you are hurt.
I say "place the mask over your own face first and then that of the person next to you." You're useless until you are secured first.