'Who Can Forgive Sins but God Alone?' Third-Party Forgiveness and Christian Practice.

The article examines the concept of third-party forgiveness—where forgiveness is extended by someone other than the direct victim—and its significance for Christian theology, particularly regarding salvation and clerical authority. It addresses common objections that third-party forgiveness is either incoherent or morally impermissible, arguing instead that it is a coherent and morally justifiable practice when properly understood. Drawing on P.F. Strawson’s distinction between victim’s resentment and third-party indignation, the article proposes that third-party forgiveness involves a third party forswearing indignation rather than resentment, making it a distinct but valid form of forgiveness. Additionally, it distinguishes a more complex form called proxy forgiveness, where a third party forgives on behalf of a victim, which requires legitimate representational authority and is exemplified in Christian practices of priestly absolution. The article concludes that third-party forgiveness is diverse, common, and essential to Christian faith, though it must be exercised with sensitivity to victims’ unique experiences and rights.