Which is the Greater Loss?

So, which is the greater loss, which change or decay do you fear more, worry about more?

The decline of moral virtue or the decline of mercy?

I think much of the theological discussions and back and forth we see can be settled by answering that question - which do you fear the loss of more - virtue or mercy.

This, of course, isn't saying one is good and the other is bad - but rather this... which one must take priority, which one is more important.

The answer you give says much to your theology.