Repentance had the ability to show the community that even if convicted criminals, the worst sinners in the world, could find forgiveness in Christ, then a member of the public is reminded that they could do it anyway. Asking for forgiveness was not only addressed to the community, but a criminal must show sorrow for his actions, only then can the power of clemency be put into action. Along with executive powers using religion in the justice system, it has the ability to show the true extent of their power. Unlike today's society, where appeals are overseen by an entire group of people, the executive branch can grant or deny pardons for any reason or no reason at all. If repentance did not occur for a criminal, he had a chance to save his life as clemency was often present until the end. The power of executive clemency could intervene at any time and this is what made executions such an important event for community life. Society would either see a man condemned for his actions, or his life would be saved on a whim. Although leniency was one way for the community to do so