The Forgiveness From Evil: Can All People Be Saved?
Introduction: The Offense That Shocks the Soul
Evil has been a plague in our world since creation, from the serial killings by Ted Bundy to the murderous acts of Jeffrey Dahmer, the solicitation of minors for prostitution by Jeffrey Epstein, and, most recently, the murder of 4 college students by Bryan Kohberger.
These acts raise a deeply theological question that pierces the heart:
Can these people be forgiven?
Can their souls ever be saved?
The answer, though hard to accept for many, is this: Yes!
Not because of who they are, but because of who Jesus is.
The Testimony of the Criminals:
Throughout history, there have been many examples of individuals who committed violent crimes but later came to faith in Jesus Christ. Here are a few notable cases:
Ted Bundy: One of America’s most notorious serial killers, Bundy claimed to accept Christ while on death row. He repented and reportedly spent his final night praying with a pastor.
Pamela Perillo: Sentenced to death for murder, Pamela thought God could never love someone like her. But behind bars, she encountered Jesus and now speaks of finding eternal life on death row.
Florisvaldo Oliveida: Known as “Brazil’s Worst Murderer,” Oliveida killed over 50 people. While imprisoned, he reportedly became a follower of Jesus.
Martin (Nigeria): After committing a violent crime, locals introduced Martin to the gospel. He later confessed, repented, and placed his faith in Christ—even in the home of the person he hurt.
Former Gang Member (YouTube Testimony): Serving 20 years for murder, this man found faith after crying out to God in despair. Immersed in Scripture, he met Jesus and was transformed from the inside out.
Jeffrey Dahmer: Responsible for the brutal deaths of 17 men and boys, Dahmer’s jailhouse conversion sparked controversy. Multiple reports still confirm that he professed faith in Christ and was baptized in prison.
The Most Recent Act of Evil: Bryan Kohberger
In November 2022, four University of Idaho students were murdered. The suspect? Bryan Kohberger, a Ph.D. student from Washington State University.
On July 23, Kohberger was sentenced to 4 consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Some family members of the victims have extended forgiveness. Others continue to wrestle with pain and outrage. Both reactions are understandable.
But here’s the biblical truth:
Forgiveness isn’t about excusing evil. It’s about understanding the mercy Jesus offered on the cross—even to those guilty of the worst sins.
The Apostle Paul on Forgiveness:
Letter to Philemon: Paul writes to urge Philemon to forgive his runaway slave Onesimus, who turned into a Christian, not to forgive him based on merit but by treating him as a brother in Christ, which is a reflection of God’s forgiveness towards us (Philemon 1:8-16).
Forgiveness Connections: Paul connects forgiveness with repentance and reconciliation. He rejoices when believers are repentant and restored. 2 Corinthians 7:7 says, “and not only by his arrival, but also by the comfort with which he was comforted among you, as he reported to us your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced even more.” Paul emphasizes that repentance leads to salvation and that forgiveness in community involves this reconciliation process.
Forgiving Each Other: Paul does not focus on asking for forgiveness from others but instead emphasizes God’s forgiveness and the believer’s responsibility to forgive, reflecting grace and mercy rooted in Christ. If we are to like Christ, we must do as Paul wrote, “forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
Examples of Jesus’ Forgiveness:
The Repentant Thief: Two criminals were crucified next to Jesus. One mocked. The other repented. Jesus turned to him and said, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43). Even at death’s door, a repentant heart found mercy.
Forgiving His Executioners: Jesus looked upon those who mocked, beat, and crucified Him and said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34). His forgiveness extended even to His murderers.
Final Thoughts: Jesus Died for Them, Too
To say that forgiving someone who has done us wrong is easier said than done would be a complete understatement. But whether it’s Jeffrey Epstein, Bryan Kohberger, or any other criminal, the gospel does not discriminate. Jesus died not just for the sins we’re comfortable forgiving—but for all who repent and believe.
Romans 10:13 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Salvation is available to anyone who admits their sin, believes in Jesus as Lord, and is baptized in His name. It’s not our job to decide who deserves forgiveness. It’s our job to trust the One who gives it.
Reflection Questions:
How do you personally wrestle with the idea of forgiveness for criminals?
Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who deeply hurt you?
What can we learn from Jesus’ example of mercy and justice?