Assessment of Religious Knowledge (ARK) 4th Grade Practice Test 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Forgiveness is shown when someone who has gone astray is welcomed back with mercy. In the Prodigal Son, a young man takes his inheritance, leaves home, and spends it all, but when he decides to return, his father runs to him, forgives him, and even throws a celebration. This story emphasizes mercy, reconciliation, and giving a fresh start to someone who admits a mistake. The other parables teach important lessons as well—loving your neighbor and helping others regardless of differences (The Good Samaritan), God’s care for every person who is lost (The Lost Sheep), and how God’s word grows in people’s hearts (The Sower)—but the Prodigal Son centers on the theme of forgiveness and restoring relationship.