Read this passage, paying close attention to how the author uses the word dismiss. There’s absolutely no excuse for Ralph’s behavior in church—mocking the minister, making light of the sermon and seizing every opportunity to turn a scripture into a joke. It was clearly inappropriate. In fact, I don’t blame the assistant pastor for demanding that he leave the service. However, when you judge his behavior in church against his compassion for the beggar, his kindness toward a cashier who was unkind to him, and his willingness to help a disabled woman, it becomes much more difficult to dismiss him as a bad seed.

What does the author’s use of the word dismiss suggest about the theme of the story where this paragraph appeared?

It suggests that the theme will involve taking a closer look before judging Ralph’s behavior.

It suggests that the theme will be about punishing people for their mistakes.

It suggests that the theme will focus on Ralph being kicked out of church.

It suggests that the theme will be about the importance of first impressions.