Forgiveness

35. FORGIVENESS ()

The Old Testament was, “an eye for an eye.” Jesus taught that we should be forgiving. The Lord’s prayer teaches us to be forgiving. Unless we are forgiving, He will not forgive us

I. THE MEANING OF FORGIVENESS

A. The Old Testament law was to get even—v. 38

(We are not under the law, but under grace)

B. Turning the cheek—v.

(This is the acid test of Christianity)

C. Do more than what is expected—vv.

(Give more than what is asked of you. Go the second mile)

If you follow Christ closely, you will be forgiving

II. THE METHOD OF FORGIVENESS

A. Giving—v.

(Give more than you receive)

B. The Old Testament was get even and hatred

The New Testament is love

1. Love your enemies

2. Bless them that curse you

3. Do good to them that curse you

4. Pray for them that despitefully use and persecute you

The real test of Christianity—being good to those that are against you

III. THE MEEKNESS OF FORGIVENESS

A. Children of the Father—v.

(God our father. Brothers and sisters in the Lord)

B. Easy to love the lovely—v.

(Need God’s help to love the unlovely)

C. Easy to salute

(respect) your brethren, but what does this prove? (Real meekness is when you love your enemies)

D. The secret of forgiveness—v.

(If you are striving to be perfect, you will be forgiving)

Christ is the best example of forgiveness. Upon the cross He forgave those who were killing Him. No bitterness or grudge in his heart

Pentz, C. M. (1968). 52 Simple Sermon Outlines (p. 57). Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House.