Originally Posted by Robin
Sometimes. too, the person who does not repent remains unforgiven - not because we can't extend forgiveness, but because he is not in a proper frame of a heart that has been softened to receive it.

Another excellent point!

The prodigal had to "come to himself" (Lk 15:17), before he was able to confess his fault. His father was ready to forgive, but he had to "do his thing" and be forced to eat some pig slop, before he could do some serious soul searching and come to a place of true repentance.

Tom F.