Luke 23:33-34

Introduction:

1. Here we have one of Jesus’ most difficult characteristics to emulate.

2. Forgiveness is something all want to receive but most struggle to give.

3. Being a “little Christ” demands we strive to grant forgiveness, despite the difficulty.

Discussion:

I. Forgiveness Delivered

A. The arc of the OT foreshadowed God granting forgiveness to fallen humanity (Genesis 3:15; 12:3; 22:17-18; Isaiah 1:18; 52:13-53:12; 55:6-7; Jeremiah 31:31-34; 33:8).

B. Jesus suffered all He did in the flesh to deliver this promise to humanity (Matthew 20:28; 26:26-28; Luke 19:10; 24:45-47; Acts 5:31; 13:38-39; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Jn. 1:9).

II. Forgiveness Demanded

A. Again, to whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48), and having been forgiven much, we are expected to be forgiving people.

B. The NT repeatedly demands we forgive as we were forgiven:

1. It is given as a command (Matthew 18:15-17; Luke 17:3-4).

2. It is to be done in imitation of the Lord (Ephesians 4:32-5:2: Colossians 3:12-13).

3. If we refuse to forgive the sins of others when they repent, we cannot be forgiven our sins (Matthew 6:12-15; 18:21-35; cf. Matthew 5:23-24).

III. Forgiveness Exemplified

A. Once again, Jesus demands nothing of us He has not demonstrated.

B. Consider some humbling examples in the Scriptures:

1. He forgave those society refused (Luke 7:36-50; 23:39-43; John 7:53-8:12).

2. He forgave the disciples who formerly forsook Him (John 21:15-19).

3. He forgave His enemies who repented (Luke 23:34; Acts 2:37-38; Romans 5:6-11).

4. His followers also forgave in profound ways (Acts 7:54-8:3; 9:26-30; 21:8).

Conclusion:

1. Once again, we see the radical changes inherent to being “little Christs” in practice.

2. Once again, our Master only demands of us what He has given and shown us.

3. As hard as it will be at times, we must strive to share His posture of forgiveness.

Further Food for Thought

1. Have you struggled or are you struggling to forgive one who has asked forgiveness?

2. What steps do you think we can take to become more forgiving of the penitent?

3. Remember, “Anger is like an acid that does more harm to the container in which it is stored than the object on which it is poured.” –Mark Twain