Revisiting Forgiveness as a Pastoral Theological “Problem”

Abstract

Jesus calls on his followers to forgive, lest they risk the denial of Divine forgiveness. Such forgiveness should not be confused with human forgiving. Human forgiveness is identified as a pastoral-theological “problem,” especially in the context of intimate violence. A working definition of forgiveness is provided and the nature of this “problem” is explored. Reader-response criticism is identified as a way to read Jesus on forgiveness. A compassionate understanding of forgiveness is encouraged.