How does God’s forgiveness transform our relationship with Him and others? Pastor Jeremy Treat preaches from Matthew 6:12 on the forgiveness Jesus Christ offers, which gives us confidence before God and the power to forgive those who have wronged us.
Discussion Questions
- How is Christian forgiveness different from how you or others in our city typically understand forgiveness?
- Are there any areas in your life or past where you struggle to believe that God has truly forgiven you? If so, why?
- Why does Jesus make such a bold connection between receiving God’s forgiveness and extending it to others? (If helpful for discussion, consider Matthew 18:32-35.)
- Are you struggling to forgive anyone in your life? Share with one another and ask for prayer.
How Does God’s Forgiveness Help Us to Forgive Others?
Pastoral Resident Devin Deuell shares how God’s grace heals our brokenness and empowers us to forgive those who have wronged us.
“The spirit of prayer is more precious than treasures of gold and silver.”
John Bunyan
Kourtney’s Story
Kourtney shares how God redeemed her from a destructive lifestyle and empowered her to forgive all those who had hurt her.
Prayer Points
When we pray this petition, we are reminded that we are all equally in need of God’s forgiveness and grace. Pray for the power to forgive those who have sinned against you, as Christ has forgiven your sins against Him and others.
Is there anyone you have an especially hard time forgiving? Ask the Lord to grant you grace and wisdom not just to forgive people, but to pray for them as well. Perhaps forgiveness for certain individuals may seem impossible to us, but ask God for eyes to see how great His grace is for others as well as for you.
Martin Luther said that “in the presence of God everyone must duck his head and come into the joy of forgiveness only through the low door of humility.” Ask God for humility and gratitude when it comes to all He has forgiven you.
If you struggle to forgive yourself for certain sins or to believe that God really has cleansed you, ask God for a greater confidence in the gospel and in His great love for you.
Is there anyone in your life who may hold a grudge against you? Pray for wisdom, grace, and healing in that relationship. Ask God if there are any ways you can reach out in love to seek restoration.
Outside of Christ, there is no true foundation for the ultimate forgiveness of sins. Pray for people you know who haven’t experienced the reality of Christ’s saving grace and forgiving love. Ask God for opportunities and boldness to share the good news of Jesus with those individuals.