The apostle Peter denied Christ three times.
{Mark 14:66-72}

While an unbeliever, the apostle Paul persecuted Christ's followers.
When certain ones of theses were to be executed,
Paul voted against them.
He even approved of the murder of one of them.
{Acts 8:1,3;9:1,2,11;26:10,11 Galatians 1:13}

Before becomeing Christians, certain members of the congregation
in Corinth had been drunkards, extortioners, and thieves.
{1 Corinthians 6:9-11}

Yet, all these came to enjoy divine favor.
Why did God forgive them?