FORGIVE LIKE YOU ARE FORGIVEN

If God really forgave us just like we forgive others, what would happen? If we forgave others just like God forgives us, what would happen?

Notes And Next Steps

Ephesians 4:32  + Part 6 of the series “Dear God..."

“Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.” Two truths: horizontal and central

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient … Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up … Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger. (Ephesians 4:2,29,31)

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 5:32)

… bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts. (James 3:14)

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14,15)

“In the presence of God everyone must duck their head and come into the joy of forgiveness only through the low door of humility.” (Martin Luther)

Jesus appealed to God the Father. (John 5:43)

“God works in me what I could not work in myself.” (Philip Yancey)

FOR DISCUSSION: Four Myths about Forgiveness

    1. “Forgive and forget.” The God who knows everything doesn’t forget, but he chooses to not actively remember. See Isaiah 43:25. Recall the story of Joseph as an example.
    2. “Forgiveness says that the sin is okay.” What is the difference between forgiveness and justice or discipline? Recall the consequences of sin in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:14-19).
    3. “Forgiveness must ignore the pain.” Forgiveness is not ignoring the pain, but delegating it to Jesus. Explain. See 1 Peter 2:24.
    4. “Just do it. Forgive and be done with it.” When it comes to forgiving, why is there a huge difference between “I can’t” and “I won’t”? Recall the story of Joseph.