For New Followers of Jesus - 30 Bible StudiesSample

Bible Study 26/30

Jesus Commanded: Forgive

No.8/12

Key principle

Forgiveness is one of the most essential concepts in Christianity. Jesus came to earth so that we could be forgiven. Therefore, God also expects us to forgive. There is no gospel without forgiveness. That is why Jesus is so clear and radical about forgiveness.

Key Scripture passages

Matthew 6:12, 14-15 (BSB) - And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors... For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours.

Take enough time to study Matthew 18:21-35.

Use the following questions to discover more about what the Holy Spirit wants to teach you about these passages

1. What do we learn about God from these passages? (How is God revealing Himself to us in this passage: His character, works, commands, and promises?)

2. What do I learn about myself or people from these passages? (What is God expecting from me? What needs to change in my life? What are my responsibilities?)

Obedience

Because God is speaking here, we must respond: What must I do to obey what He says in these Scripture passages? What do I sense the Holy Spirit is saying and asking me to do? Be practical and specific.

Notes

Forgiveness is a vast subject and often a big problem in people's lives. It is essential to bring every form of unforgiveness to the Lord in prayer. If you do not succeed in getting free from the sin of unforgiveness, it is recommended that you go to a mature believer and pray with that person about it. Sometimes, professional help is necessary.

It is common for people to confess their bitterness and to forgive, and then, after a few days, the bitterness comes back. Go back again and again and confess it. After some time, you will gain victory. If you find that you are not willing to forgive, ask the Lord to make you willing.

If you have offended someone, you have to ask for forgiveness. Many people want to argue about it and say they will forgive only if the other person acknowledges what they have done wrong. Your responsibility is to confess what you have done wrong. Leave the rest to the Lord. He will deal with the other person in His way and in His own time.