Reconciling Forgiveness, Mercy, and Justice

Consider the following scenario: A death row inmate who is less than 24 hours away from execution has called you to his cell. He chooses to make his final appeal to you because he knows that you are a Christian. He states the following: “I have been convicted of a heinous crime, and I have been sentenced to death. But I have seen the error of my ways. I thought God was merciful and forgiving. Why am I not receiving forgiveness? I’m very sorry for what I did, and I’m not the same person that I was 14 years ago.” Based on the above scenario, respond to the following questions: How can you explain the difference between forgiveness in Christ and being accountable to the State to this inmate? Assuming capital punishment is the appropriate sentence for this inmate, how is justice being served? If you do not believe that justice is being served, present an argument with Biblical application.  Why is this scenario an example of retributive justice rather than restorative justice?  Requirements: In your essay, support your views with the required readings and study materials for this week, or other scholarly sources to support your statements. Four in-text citations are required for this assignment. Your paper must be formatted using 12 pt. Times New Roman font, with a 400-word minimum/425-word maximum double-spaced.  (Do not include a Title page or Reference page).