Forgiveness By Brummer Analysis

Brummer begins the chapter by offering advice on how to overcome resentfulness after being hurt. The writer recommends taking an unresentful attitude and be willing to forgive. Next, clear explanation is made of the words forgiveness and condonation. To condone an action is to believe that there was nothing done that caused harm and therefore, forgiveness is not required. Forgiveness is required when something does occur that causes damage or harm. Moreover, forgiveness gives up the vindictive attitude or behavior of giving another their dues. However, there is a cost to both words. Forgiveness identifies the person that was hurt and condonation denies that there was any cost involved at all. Next, the writer explains that effectual …show more content…
A major point here is the fact that justice is the price a wrong doer seeks for his or her deeds and has no need of forgiveness from the offended. Retribution does not restore a broken relationship. In essence, we are hesitant to pardon and to ask forgiveness. Yet, it is only through these means that true restorative justice and reconciliation is made. Next, Brummer addresses divine forgiveness. It is atonement and mercy that is necessary for reconciliation with God and nothing else. Brummer then discusses the four important respects that make the difference between forgiveness from others and that from God. First, Forgiveness is a decision one must freely make. God is love and will never fail to forgive and be reunited with those that truly are repentant because, divine forgiveness is freely given. Not so amongst people. Secondly, God already knows the wrongs people have committed. Therefore, the confession is for the offender to admit their all their wrong doings and become the person that God can have fellowship with. With people, it becomes a matter of one confession per offense. Thirdly, God can and does forgive all sin. The operative word being all. With people, it is one confession per