Sermon Recap
This week in Kingdom Culture Part two, the character of our King, focused on the forgiveness of our King. We dove into the parable of the unmerciful servant, where Jesus explains that if anyone is forgiven an insurmountable debt, they have no right to hold forgiveness to anyone that owes them a debt. In other words, since we have been forgiven all of our sins, we must forgive anyone who sins against us as well. In fact, this is commanded, going so far as to say if we don’t forgive others, then Jesus will not forgive us. Even so, extending the same forgiveness to others that Jesus has given to us can be very difficult. If we try to act as the judge and determine who deserves to be forgiven, we will fall short. Everyone deserves to be forgiven, not because of what they do to us, but because of what God has done for us. What many people don’t realize is that forgiveness is not mainly an issue between those who wrong you and yourself. It is an issue between you and the Lord.
Jesus demonstrates this forgiveness as he publicly declares to the soldiers responsible for his execution that they should be forgiven. This model is a powerful example for us to follow. It is the purest form of unconditional love. This is the way things are done in God’s kingdom. One of the easiest ways to bring God’s kingdom to Earth is to demonstrate this kind of radical forgiveness to those in our lives who have wronged us.
Key Scripture
Discussion Questions
What makes it so hard to forgive others?
Do you find it easier to forgive a family member or a stranger? Discuss.
How do you usually respond when someone hurts you? Retaliate, withdraw, get offended, accuse, or forgive. How long does it take you to forgive?
There are many myths involved with forgiveness. It is not fixing the situation. It is not forgetting about the past. It is not saying what happened is ok If it’s not any of these things, then what is it? Describe what happens when you forgive in your own words.
Is there anyone you need to forgive that you are struggling to?
Is there anything you need to allow God to forgive you for that you don’t feel worthy of?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for setting the example of forgiving your enemies, and also me. I recognize that it wasn’t any more costly to forgive the soldiers who crucified you as it was to forgive me. My sin created an insurmountable debt, but because of your great love for me, you paid it all. May I never withhold that kind of love from others, even when I have been hurt beyond what I can bear. Holy Spirit give me the supernatural power to love my enemies as Christ has loved me. Amen.
Life Application
Nothing you have done can separate you from God’s Love. Accept God’s forgiveness for the things you have done, and be reminded that you are His delight.
Don’t harbor unforgiveness. Break free from the chains of bitterness and allow God to heal your heart, letting go of what you were never meant to hold onto.
On a daily basis, develop the habit of being slow to judge and quick to forgive
Don’t Forget!
OCC packing Sunday- Nov 2nd after services
Additional Resources
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