Jesus embodies forgiveness. Before he spoke it, he lived it. He taught it. He demonstrated it. It was more than words. And we are to live out that reality in our lives as well. As shocking as these words of Jesus may be at the very start of his crucifixion - his forgiveness quotient and forgiveness expectation - is always shocking. The teaching from Matthew 18 left the disciples with gapping mouths. Peter attempts a reasonable clarification of the forgiveness expectation. I can almost hear him, "say what???!!!" The kind of forgiveness that we need and the kind of forgiveness that Jesus calls us to - is beyond anything reasonable - it is rooted in Grace. When you fully realize that the debt was paid that you could never pay, in order to secure your forgiveness - then you too will show grace and forgive.

Preach Jesus

HIS FINAL WORDS FROM THE CROSS

"The Power Of Forgiveness"

Luke 23:32-34 (Matthew18:15-35)

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”  

Ephesians 4:32

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”  Colossians 3:13

“Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”

Three Questions about Forgiveness:

 #1—Why Should I?

•  Because I need it
•  Because I do not forget
•  Because without forgiveness, we hate and become bitter

#2—How Can I?

•  Begin by seeing the brokenness
• Rewrite the memory
• Patiently allow the required time
• Remember, forgiveness is a team sport

The most important question about forgiveness—

#3—How Can I, Not?

• When the one set free in forgiveness—is me

“I—yes, I alone—will blot out your sins for my own sake

and will never think of them again.”

Isaiah 43:25