Week 4 - The Importance of Forgiveness

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DECLARATION:

Ephesians 2:20–22 (ESV)

20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

SVCC is built by God, upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, and with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone.

We are joined together by union with Christ, we are growing, and we are a dwelling place of God by his Spirit.

Prayer for...

Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church

INTRODUCTION:

Review:

WHY?…

TODAY: Forgiveness

Opening Scripture:

2 Corinthians 2:11 ESV

11 so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.

The Reason for Paul’s Concern with Forgiveness

2 Corinthians 2:1–4 “1 For I made up my mind not to make another painful visit to you. 2 For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained? 3 And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all. 4 For I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you.”

This references previous “severe” letter

Background: 1 Corinthians 5:1 “1 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not tolerated even among pagans, for a man has his father’s wife.”

Paul’s desire was not to cause pain to but show “abundant love”

6 Points on The Crucial Importance of Forgiveness (2:5–11):

1. Recognizing the reality of the hurt (v. 5)

Example: Imagine a scenario where someone has been betrayed by a close friend. Recognizing the reality of the hurt means acknowledging the depth of the emotional pain caused by this betrayal, such as feelings of betrayal, anger, and sadness.

2. Discipline is sometimes necessary (v. 6)

Example: In a classroom setting, a disruptive student continually interrupts the teacher, making it difficult for others to learn. In this case, discipline, such as a time-out or a conversation with the student, may be necessary to maintain order and ensure a productive learning environment.

3. Discipline is remedial—restoration follows repentance (vv. 7–8)

Example: If a person has a history of substance abuse and wants to change their ways, discipline can involve seeking experienced helpers and attending rehabilitation programs. Once they genuinely repent and commit to their recovery, restoration can follow, leading to a healthier and true freedom.

4. The call for discipline—a test of obedience (v. 9)

Example: A parent instructs their child not to touch a hot stove. When the child disobeys and reaches for it, the parent disciplines the child by firmly saying no and removing their hand. The call for discipline here tests the child's obedience and willingness to follow instructions.

5. The one hurt makes the first step in showing forgiveness (v. 10)

Example: In a family dispute, one sibling takes the initiative to approach the other sibling who hurt them and offers a sincere apology. This act of reconciliation and willingness to forgive starts the process of healing and rebuilding trust.

6. Refusing to forgive makes people vulnerable in the face of Satan’s schemes (v. 11)

Example: In a conflict between coworkers, one individual refuses to forgive a colleague's mistake, holding onto resentment and anger. This refusal to forgive makes them vulnerable to further workplace conflicts, misunderstandings, and potentially harmful actions that can harm their professional life and well-being.

Relationship took priority even over doors for the Gospel that God had opened

2 Corinthians 2:12–13 “12 When I came to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ, even though a door was opened for me in the Lord, 13 my spirit was not at rest because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I took leave of them and went on to Macedonia.”

vv. 2:12-13 illustrate the importance of personal relationships and responsibilities in the context of spreading the message of Christ. Paul's concern for his fellow missionary and the need to address certain matters with him take precedence over the immediate opportunity to preach in Troas, showing the significance of human relationships and responsibilities even in the service of God's work.

Conclusion/Reflection:

2 Corinthians 10:4 ESV

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.

Forgiveness is a weapon for destroying strong holds!

Restoration follows Repentance!

Talk It Over

2 Corinthians 2:1-13 emphasizes the idea of "restoration follows repentance" (vv. 7-8). Can you think of real-life examples where this principle has been applied or should be applied?

If some of the Corinthians persist in doubting Paul’s care for them, how might his telling about his anxiety over Titus help change their minds? (2:13)?

How can we balance our spiritual callings and responsibilities with our personal relationships and obligations in our lives?