Forgiving Others

Forgiving someone who has wronged us is often one of the most difficult things for us to do. Yet, in scripture, Jesus emphasizes that as his followers, we are called to forgive:

"Then Peter came to him and asked, 'Sir, how often should I forgive a brother who sins against me? Seven times?'  'No!' Jesus replied, 'seventy times seven!'" (Matthew 18:21-22 The Living Bible)

"Your heavenly Father will forgive you if you forgive those who sin against you; but if you refuse to forgive them, he will not forgive you." (Matthew 6:14-15 The Living Bible)

Forgiving someone does not excuse the wrong they have done but rather relieves us of the pain caused by what has been done to us. This exploration of forgiving others is intended to help you understand this better and equip you to forgive others.

NOTICE: If you have been the victim of a traumatic event or abuse, please consult with a trained professional who can help you process your trauma and help you determine if you are ready to proceed with these forgiveness activities.
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How do I consider forgiveness if I have been or am in an abusive situation? Click here to read this first.
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Read Matthew 18:21-35. Click here.
Answer the following questions:
  1. Do you tend to be quick or slow to forgive?
  2. Offenders in Jesus' day were forgiven up to three times; a fourth offense need not be forgiven. What does Jesus' answer (verse 22) say about forgiveness in the kingdom?
  3. How does the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant extend Jesus' teaching on forgiveness (verses 23-35)? In refusing to be merciful to others, what do we deny ourselves (verses 31-34)?
  4. What is the comparison between the two servants' debts (verses 24, 28)? Their pleas (verses 26, 29)? The decision about their case (verses 27, 30)? 
  5. If you were the master, how would you have felt when the servants refused to forgive a fellow servant's debt--right after you had forgiven his huge debt?
  6. Which character in this parable can you most relate to and why?
  7. How has God's forgiveness affected your life and your willingness to forgive?
  8. What is the connection between forgiveness, health and wholeness?
(Taken from Serendipity Group Bible for Leaders, New Testament​, copyright 1999 by Serendipity House, Littleton, CO, pp. 112, 114.)
A Prayer for Forgiving Those Who Hurt You
​Sometimes, we don't know where to begin in the forgiveness process. This prayer provides a framework for forgiving another.  (Click here.)
Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation 
Note: If you have been or are in an abusive situation, click here to read this first before considering forgiveness vs. reconciliation.
​Forgiveness and reconciliation are two different actions. It is important to understand the difference.  (Click here) 
Allow this video to speak to you about forgiving others. Click here.
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