The Art of Forgiveness [Hardcover]

Forgiveness is at the heart of the Christian Gospel. It goes hand in hand with love, mercy, and grace, the fundamental theological virtues. However, forgiveness is easier to define than it is to embody. This unique collection of essays brings together theologians, ethicists, and ministry practitioners into a constructive dialog which explores the complex and crucial concept of forgiveness: what it is, where it is to be found, and how it might be practiced. These essays reflect the perspectives of those from various traditions who nonetheless take the Christian Scriptures seriously, believe that forgiveness is central to living out the Gospel, and are creative in the ways in which forgiveness can be practiced. Forgiveness is an art and not simply a science; as such it requires trust, skill, and hope alongside love, mercy, and grace if it is to be embodied. This volume offers a unique window into the art of forgiveness and the faithful and innovative ways in which it is to be understood, embodied, and cultivated.

Philip Halstead lectures in applied theology with a specialty in pastoral care and counseling at Carey Baptist College.

Myk Habets is dean of faculty, lecturer in systematic theology, and head of Carey Graduate School, Carey Baptist College.

Forgiveness is not one thing. It is a rich, multifaceted, multilayered concept that represents many things to different people. As a psychologist, I find it refreshing to read theologians' many different understandings of the varieties of forgiving and of ways to practice its art. And nothing brings home this freshness like reading essays by bright people in different disciplines (generally theology) from different countries (generally New Zealand). This was a stimulating and broadening read--great for theologians but enlightening regardless of one's background. Everett L. Worthington, Virginia Commonwealth University

If we do not learn to practice the art of forgiveness, our future will forever lƒ}