Forgive Them

Skit

Testimony -

Luke 23:34-43 Father forgive them for they know not what they do.

Acts 7:55-60 Stephen said, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them”

Forgiveness doesn’t hold anything against a person

FORGIVENESS

recognizing our sin is against God.

is not weakness. To err is human. To forgive is divine.

is not enabling. You can forgive and allow a person to deal with consequences for their actions

does not mean you trust them. Trust is earned. Love will believe for the best but does rejoice in the truth.

IF YOU ARE THE OFFENDED

Forgiveness is a command not an option. It has nothing to do with an apology or them suffering enough.

It doesn’t mean you trust them.

Ask God to give you a love for the offender.

Pray for them until you sense a sincere desire for them to be blessed.

Your offense can affect others. It caused unmerciful servant to lost the respect of his friends, they were deeply grieved (vs 31)

IF YOU ARE THE OFFENDER

Confess your sin to God and those affected by your sin.

Make things right as an act of obedience to God.

Don’t apologize. Ask for forgiveness

Make restitution (pay for the offense) when possible.

Don’t ask for forgiveness if asking is going to cause more discomfort.