Forgiving and Forgiven

Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:11-14

Introduction

A. The word most often translated “forgive” in the New Testament means to let something go or to leave it alone (cf. Mark 1:18).

B. Without a doubt, forgiving those who offend us is one of the most difficult things that God has required us to do.

C. Jesus teaches us very plainly, however, that we must be willing to forgive others if we wish to be forgiven ourselves.

Discussion

I. How does Jesus forgive?

A. Jesus has the power to forgive (Matthew 9:1-8).

B. Jesus is faithful to forgive (1 John 1:7-9).

C. Jesus forgives no matter how sinful the offender may be (Luke 7:40-47).

II. What does Jesus teach us about forgiveness?

A. He teaches us that we should forgive because we need forgiveness ourselves (Luke 6:37-38; Mark 6:25-26; Matthew 18:35).

B. He teaches that we should be willing to forgive regardless of what someone has done (Luke 7:39).

C. He teaches that we should forgive regardless of how many times one has offended us (Matthew 18:22; Luke 17:3-4).

D. He teaches that we should be eager to forgive (Luke 15).

Conclusion

A. If there is something that is keeping you from forgiving someone who has wronged you, you need to turn loose of it, because it will keep you from being forgiven, and it will cost you your soul.

B. As much as Christ loves us and wants to save us, we must repent and come to Him in order to receive the forgiveness that He so freely offers (Mark 4:12; Luke 13:3).