Forgive: Week 11
The Practical Extension of Forgiveness

This sermon marks the end of our 11-week series on forgiveness. Throughout this series, we have seen how forgiveness is a reflection of the gift God has given to us through Jesus— grace and mercy from the Cross in response to our sinful rebellion. This series ends on a practical note of what it means to extend forgiveness and pursue reconciliation with others, including when we have wronged others and when we are the one who has been wronged. It is important to understand that forgiveness is a commitment that precedes an emotional change—feelings like anger can be righteous and healthy as we understand the cost of wrongdoing against us. However, we are called to confront sin lovingly and work toward restoration with those who wrong us. Jesus calls us to overcome evil by not repaying evil with evil, blessing those who persecute us, forgiving without revenge, maintaining relationship (if possible/safe), meeting needs, and acting humbly. The ability to be humble comes directly from our understanding of the Cross, as we see how we are also sinners in need of forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Vertical

• How can remembering what Christ did for us give us motivation and ability to forgive others?
• How does the Gospel lead to spiritual humility and spiritual wealth?
• In the Luke 17 story of the ten healed lepers, are you more like the one or the nine? How so?

Internal

• How can we forgive people when emotions like anger, hurt, and bitterness are present? What are some practical steps forward?
• How can we discern between righteous anger and sinful anger? What causes our anger to become sinful?
• How has your understanding of forgiveness (from God and/or toward others) grown through this series? What is one thing you want to apply?

Horizontal

• Why is it important that we see forgiveness as a commitment and process rather than a one-time event?
• How does the goal of restoration reshape how we confront others?
• What circumstances in your life right now may require you to practice forgiveness? How can your community support you?
• What are some specific ways God is calling you to overcome evil with good in your life?

Action Steps

• Spend some time in prayer, thanking God for His forgiveness toward you and ongoing restoration in your life.
• Based on the questions above about creating a culture of forgiveness and your own life circumstances, discuss specific next steps with someone else (family member, friend, GC, etc.) and prayerfully commit to moving forward in faith.
• Take some time to share your personal feedback on this series (see second sheet).
• Review and work through this week’s additional resources: "A Therapist’s Guide to Anger."