Beyond the Moment

Embrace the Disciple’s Responsibility

Philippians 2:12–13 ESV

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Which activity best represents a personal spiritual discipline aligned with Philippians 2:12-13?

A. Attending a weekly social club

B. Participating in occasional charity events

C. Engaging daily is Scripture reading and prayer

D. Watching religious films

2 Peter 1:2–3 (ESV)

May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,

Why is it important to cultivate personal spiritual discipline? How does this impact your life?

Reflect God's Forgiveness in Interpersonal Relationships

Colossians 3:13 ESV

bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

Ephesians 4:32 ESV

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Which scenario exemplifies the act of reflecting God's forgiveness in interpersonal relationships as taught in these 2 scriptures?

A. Choosing hold a grudge against a co-worker after a disagreement

B. Ignoring a family member’s apology for a past wrong

C. Reconciling with a friend and offering forgiveness following a mistake

D. Keeping distance from someone who has wronged you

How does practicing forgiveness in interpersonal relationships contribute to spiritual maturity and embody the truth about salvation?

Wrong Belief:

“It’s natural for me to resent those who have wronged me. If I forgive them, they will get away with it. My offenders need to pay for the wrongs committed against me.”

Result:

This belief reflects an attitude of pride that sets you up as a judge higher than God, who is willing to forgive and chooses to forget.

Isaiah 43:25 ESV

“I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.

Right Belief:

“Because God has totally forgiven me, I can release my resentment and choose to forgive others. I will rely on Christ, who lives in me, to enable me to forgive.”

Result:

This belief reflects a heart of humility that results in a desire to forgive others in the same way God forgives you.

Ephesians 4:32 ESV

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

What is the Difference Between Forgiveness and Reconciliation?

Forgiveness can take place with only one person.

— Reconciliation requires at least two people.

Forgiveness is directed one-way.

— Reconciliation is reciprocal, occurring two ways.

Forgiveness is a decision to release the offender.

— Reconciliation is the effort to rejoin the offender.

Forgiveness involves a change in thinking about the offender.

— Reconciliation involves a change in behavior by the offender.

Forgiveness is a free gift to the one who has broken trust.

— Reconciliation is a restored relationship based on restored trust.

Forgiveness is extended even if it is never, ever earned.

— Reconciliation is offered to the offender because it has been earned.

Forgiveness is unconditional, regardless of a lack of repentance.

— Reconciliation is conditional, based on repentance.