The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) isn’t saying all sins are equal in gravity. Mortal sins (like murder) are distinct from venial sins (like stealing candy). The Church teaches that mortal sin requires grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent (CCC 1857). The parable’s point is God’s mercy: no sin is beyond forgiveness if repentance is genuine. The Prodigal Son didn’t just waltz back; he humbled himself, acknowledging his fault. Same with St. Paul: his conversion (Acts 9) was a radical break from his past, not a free pass.

>I hate how I'm the same as a rapist or the worst piece of shit possible because all sin is equal.
Not quite. The Church doesn’t teach all sins are equal. Grave sins differ in degree (CCC 1858). What’s equal is that any sin separates us from God’s grace. A rapist’s sin is objectively worse than a lie, but both need repentance to restore that relationship. God’s justice doesn’t flatten morality into a one-size-fits-all blob.

>I don't see how an innocent man dying works as payment.
Christ’s sacrifice isn’t a cosmic IOU. It’s not about “another dude” dying to offset your suffering. Christ, being God and man, offered a perfect act of obedience to atone for humanity’s disobedience (Romans 5:19). His death bridges the infinite gap sin creates. Your suffering isn’t erased by a transaction; it’s redeemed through participation in His sacrifice (Colossians 1:24).

cont.

Which current church would peter and paul support?