How can a rapist possibly be forgiven? Is granting forgiveness necessary?

Matthew 5:44“But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”

Matthew 18:21-22Then Peter came to him [Jesus] and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”

Mark 11:25“When you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”

Romans 12:21Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Jesus forgave those who crucified him. There is nothing more difficult—or more healing—than forgiving those who have greatly wronged us. They should still have to face the consequences and punishment for their actions, but forgiveness frees us to move on with our lives.