The Power of Forgiveness

Introduction Without the forgiveness of our sins through Jesus’ death we would be hopeless and godless in this world and would not have any desire to forgive others who sinned against us (Ephesians 2:12) God’s forgiveness is the basis by which we can and should forgive others. (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-13) If we aren’t willing to forgive others for their iniquity, God won’t forgive us (Mt. 6:14-15).

Let us study the healing power of forgiveness. Introduction It doesn’t mean that we ignore sin committed against us, neglect our responsibility to the offender, or decide to limit how many times I forgive someone. (Luke 17:3-4; Matt. 5:43ff; 18:21-22) When God forgives: He blots it out (Acts 3:19); He forgets about it (Heb. 8:12); and He rejoices with the penitent (Luke 15:7,20-24). Let us study the healing power of forgiveness.

The Power to Forgive… …comes from our own forgiveness. The Lord has shown us mercy in forgiving us of a debt we could never repay (Matt. 18:23ff). This gives us motivation to be merciful towards others (Luke 6:36). But how many are like the servant who refused to forgive his brother or like Simon the Pharisee who did not see his need for forgiveness (Matt. 18:28ff; Luke 7:36ff)?

The Power to Forgive… …comes from the power of love. His love requires us to forgive (1 John 4:7ff). Love suffers long and is kind (1 Cor. 13:4ff). Love is not selfish and does not seek revenge. Love rejoices in the truth, not iniquity. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. Love never fails!

The Healing Power in Forgiveness We know that we have sinned and separated ourselves from our God (Isa. 59:1-2, 12-13). But the soul can be restored from sin and death through the precious blood of Christ. (Isa. 53:5; 1 Pet. 2:24; 3:18; James 1:21) When we are buried with Christ in baptism, our sins are washed away (Ax 22:16). As Christians, we can repent and confess our sins to God (Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9).

The Healing Power in Forgiveness The guilt of sin causes pain in the mind, body, and soul on a daily basis (Psalms 32:3-4). But we can be restored from the guilt and pain of sin. David was (Ps. 32:1-2, 5; 51:8ff). Paul agonized over his sin but through God’s grace in Christ he had joy (1 Ti. 1:12ff). A penitent brother will be helped by brethren comforting and forgiving him so that he won’t be overwhelmed by sorrow (2 Co 2:7).

The Power to Restore Relationships First of all with God (Luke 15:18ff). Between the offended party and the offender. (Matthew 18:15-18; Luke 17:3-4) Forgiving others will help us to be kind and tender- hearted instead of being bitter and angry (Ephesians 4:31-32). Where forgiveness is practiced, you have reconciliation instead of divorce, unity instead of division, and joy instead of grief.

Conclusion When God forgives, He forgets (Luke 23:34; Acts 2:38; Ps. 103:3, 11-12), and in the same way we must forgive others (Ephesians 4:32). But how many times? Do you want the Lord to forgive you? Then forgive others as often as they ask for forgiveness (Luke 17:4).

Conclusion Your soul can be restored from sin and death, from the guilt and pain of sin, and restore your relationships as much as lies within you. But judgment will be without mercy from God if you are unwilling to show mercy to others. (James 2:13) Decide today to make your soul right with God by obeying the gospel or restoring your relationship with brethren if it is possible!