In this episode of The Alabaster Jar, Dr. Lynn Cohick talks with theologian and author Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing about her new book, Forgiveness: Reclaiming Its Power in a Culture of Outrage and Fear. Together they explore why forgiveness is often misunderstood in both secular culture and the church, and how it can uphold, rather than undermine, justice. Dr. Orr-Ewing unpacks different models of forgiveness, the relationship between forgiveness, repentance, and reconciliation, and how trauma survivors can move toward healing without minimizing the evil done to them. They also discuss self-forgiveness, the role of community and church liturgy, and how a robust theology of forgiveness can reshape our lives, our churches, and even our national stories.  

Resources Mentioned:   

Forgiveness: Reclaiming Its Power in a Culture of Outrage and Fear by Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing

Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ by Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing

Amy Orr-Ewing

Bowling Alone: Revised and Updated: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Dr. Robert D. Putnam  

The Visual Museum for Women in Christianity  

The Center for Women in Leadership  

Episode Sponsor:  

The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.