Thematic Bible: To backsliders
Thematic Bible
Mercy » Should be shown » To backsliders
Arising, I will go to my father, and will say to him, Father, I sinned against Heaven, and before you; I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants.' And, arising, he came to his father. But, while he was yet afar off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion; and, running, he fell on his neck, and kissed him much.
Sufficient for such a one was the punishment inflicted by the many; so that, on the contrary, ye ought rather to forgive and console him, lest by any means such a one should be swallowed up with his excessive sorrow. Wherefore, I beseech you to confirm your love toward him.