FORGIVENESS AND RECONCILIATION IN LUKE 15:11–32 AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR CHRISTIANS IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIAN SOCIETY

Abstract

This study explores forgiveness and reconciliation in Luke 15:11–32 and their implications for Christians in contemporary Nigerian society. Forgiveness and reconciliation remain vital topics in Christian theology; yet their lack has contributed to conflicts within families, churches, and Christian denominations in Nigeria. The study employs the historical-critical method to analyse the parable, and implications are inferred using an African cultural hermeneutical approach. Findings show that forgiveness comes with intentionality since it begins with receptivity and repentance. Reconciliation, on the other hand, initiates the restoration process of broken relationships. In Luke 15:11-32, the younger son’s willingness to confess his sin and the father’s empathy demonstrate the powerful role of forgiveness. Meanwhile, the elder brother’s attitude reveals the outcome of reconciliation. The study also demonstrates that reconciliation cannot be fully realized without forgiveness, as both are important for peacekeeping within the Christian community. In conclusion, the parable serves as a principle of forgiveness and reconciliation that can be used to address interpersonal and communal conflicts in Nigerian society. It recommends that Christians adopt these principles to foster peace, unity, and social cohesion.