Main Idea
This week, Pastor Zak continued our “Family Still Matters” series with a message based on this powerful truth: Our relationship with God is inseparable from our relationships with others. We can’t have a great relationship with God if our relationships with others are unhealthy – and vice versa! In a divided culture that’s constantly pushing us to pick sides, as Christians, we are called to forgive those who offend us and love those we might consider our “enemies.” If we find ourselves struggling to forgive, it may be for one of three reasons: 1) We have a wrong understanding of what forgiveness is, 2) we don’t think it’s fair, or 3) we don’t think we can do it. What we must remember is that God has forgiven us completely and given us His power to extend forgiveness as well. Let’s take a counter-cultural approach towards those who have offended us and those with whom we disagree. In doing so, we will have the ability to lead others to the truth of God’s Word in an effective, loving, life-changing way.

Am I going to base my life on what I think or what God thinks?

My relationship with God is inseparable to my relationship with the people God has put in my life.

Why don't we forgive?

1. We don't understand forgiveness.

2. We don't think forgiveness is fair.

3. We don't feel that we can forgive.

Steps to Forgive:

1. Pray for them.

2. Bless them.

3. Do good to them.

Start Sharing
Choose a question to create openness.
• Pastor Zak taught that forgiveness isn’t minimizing an offense or even reconciling with the person who offended us. Forgiveness is choosing to release the offense and the offender to God. How did this message challenge the way you think about forgiveness?
• Is there a person or group of people who came to mind as Pastor Zak taught this message? In what ways might you be holding on to offense caused by this person or group? What would it mean for you to forgive them?
• What does it look like to do good to a person or a group of people who have offended you or tend to do things that offend you on an ongoing basis? Talk about practical ways to do good to people you might view as your “enemies.”

Start Praying
Be bold and pray with power.
• Father God, help us to remember that we can choose to love and forgive others because You first chose to love and forgive us. Heal our hearts from offense, and help us to pray for, bless, and do good to others, no matter how they have treated us. We love You, Lord, and we choose to value and love all people, just as You do. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen!

Group Leader Tips
• Be prepared to encourage your group members who may be struggling with forgiveness this week, and let your group know you are available to connect individually if needed. If you have personally struggled to forgive someone in the past, please share a part of your story. Others will feel more comfortable to speak freely when you lead with openness.

Start Doing
Commit to take a bold step of faith this week and make it practical!
• Pray for them. - “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” - Matthew 5:43-44
• Bless them. - “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” - Romans 12:14
• Do good to them. - “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Romans 12:21