THE IMPORTANCE AND EVIDENCE OF FORGIVENESS

THE IMPORTANCE AND EVIDENCE OF FORGIVENESS

THE IMPORTANCE AND EVIDENCE OF FORGIVENESS

ROMANS 12:17-21, MATTHEW 6:14-15, COL 3:12-14


Last week, we explored the dangers of Unforgiveness and Biblical example of those who forgave. Today, we will delve deeper into why forgiveness is not just a suggestion, but a vital aspect of the Christian life.


THE NECESSITY OF FORGIVENESS

  1. Forgiveness is not optional but a must-do. Matthew 6:12,
  2. It is an express command from God. Matthew 6:14-15

Forgiveness is not a suggestion; it is a direct command from our Lord.

  1. It is the nature of Christ's Kingdom. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20

The Kingdom of God is built on the foundation of forgiveness. As ambassadors of Christ's Kingdom, we are called to extend the same forgiveness that God has shown us through Jesus Christ.

  1. It is the good news of the gospel. Romans 5:8-11

The gospel message is the message of forgiveness. God, in His infinite mercy, sent His Son to take the punishment for our sins, offering us forgiveness and reconciliation with Him.

  1. It is a personal blessing to forgive those who have hurt you. Ephesians 4:31-32

Forgiveness is not only a command; it is a blessing. When we forgive, we release ourselves from the burden of bitterness, anger, and resentment, and we experience the freedom and peace that comes from walking in obedience to God's Word.


EVIDENCE OF FORGIVENESS

True forgiveness goes beyond simply saying the words. Here are some indicators that you've genuinely forgiven someone:

  1. You don't repeat their failures. Prov 10:12

When you have truly forgiven someone, you don't continually bring up their past offenses or use them as ammunition against them.

  1. You restore fellowship and relationship: Matthew 5:23-24

Forgiveness paves the way for reconciliation and the restoration of broken relationships.

  1. You speak love and peace. Col 4:6, Eph 4:29

Your words towards the offender are filled with love, grace, and a desire for peace, rather than harbouring resentment or bitterness.

  1. You build up the confidence in the offender that you have forgiven. Col 3:12-14

Your actions and attitude towards the offender demonstrate that you have genuinely forgiven them, allowing them to move forward without the weight of guilt or shame.

  1. You continue to pray for them. Matthew 5:44

True forgiveness leads to a heart of compassion and a desire to see the offender experience the love and forgiveness of God.


CONCLUSION

Forgiveness requires effort, but the rewards are immense. By choosing to forgive, we honour God's commands, embrace the core values of the kingdom, and ultimately, experience the liberating power of God’s love.