Mercy is an integral and essential part of the Fruit of the Spirit. In the beginning, man sinned against God with an offense worthy of death. However, in a demonstration of love, He instituted a plan of forgiveness, mercy, and salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. With our acceptance of Jesus, we understand the tender mercies of God and, through that mercy, live in His righteousness outlined and established in the Word, and commanded to extend the mercy afforded us, to others.