What role does God's mercy play in true repentance?

God's mercy is fundamental to the process of true repentance as it fosters a genuine understanding of one's sinfulness and the need for change. When individuals recognize God's mercy, they come to see their failings in light of His love and forgiveness. This awareness encourages them to turn away from sin and seek a transformed life aligned with divine will.

The experience of God's mercy can lead to a deeper conviction of sin as individuals acknowledge the gravity of their actions against the backdrop of God's grace. This realization can propel someone towards sincere repentance, which involves not only feeling remorse for past behavior but also committing to a change in lifestyle and attitudes.

In contrast, the other choices reflect misunderstandings about the nature of God's mercy. Viewing it as irrelevant undermines its foundational role in guiding individuals toward repentance. Suggesting that it allows for the continuation of sinful behavior contradicts the very essence of repentance, which is about turning away from sin. Lastly, the notion that God's mercy can be used as leverage in negotiations implies a transactional relationship, rather than one rooted in grace and love, which ultimately detracts from the transformative power that true repentance requires.