ABSTRACT
Having set up the value-driven and exegetically engaged nature of the project, this chapter opens by considering (and subsequently setting aside) a potential objection to the methodological adequacy of reflective equilibrium in a theological context. Once that objection has been dealt with, we turn to biblical constraints on the nature and place of forgiveness. This takes us through all of the Gospels and Apostolic Writings, along with several important passages from the Hebrew scriptures. Our investigation delivers several points of contact from scripture with issues surrounding the concept of forgiveness. These points of contact foundationally inform and shape the discussion of forgiveness and atonement in the following chapters.
