Why should i forgive?

October 15, 2017

PASSAGE: Matthew 18:21-35

BIG IDEA:

When we are hurt by others we often hoard that hurt in the hallways of our heart. And as time goes on that hurt manifests into bitterness, resentment, and anger. Jesus tells us over and over in the Bible to forgive others. But why? Why do we have to forgive those that hurt us?

SERMON POINTS:

If you don’t forgive those who hurt you:

  1. Your ______will not be ______.
  1. Your ______will not______.

NEXT STEPS:

  1. Come to the Baptism Class today from 3-5pm and learn about baptism. You can also sign up to be a part of our next Baptism Celebration service!
  2. Sign up for Discover GCC and learn about this church, our denomination, and how you can become a member.
  3. Sign up for Parent’s Night Out, Nov. 10 from 6pm-9pm!

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

  1. Sometimes we want people to sympathize with us in our hurts. The truth is, sympathy can provide temporary relief, but nothing short of forgiveness can procure lasting release. Why do you think people are content to wallow in self-pity when the release of forgiveness is available?
  2. Is your reaction to hurt or offense in your life an attempt to seek revenge? To wound the person who has wounded you? If so, explain how you feel that getting revenge or wounding your offender would resolve your problem. Would that resolution bring lasting peace, or only add to your pain as a victim? Are you seeking relief or release?
  3. What is your initial reaction to the concept of forgiveness? Do you react in denial, anger, self-righteousness, or judgment? Do you perhaps feel hostile toward the whole idea of forgiveness as a necessity?
  4. What characteristics in your life might indicate that you haven’t fully forgiven past hurts, even if you know in your head what you need to do?
  5. Why does “debt collecting” lead to resentment and bitterness? What are some end results of living as a debt collector? Do you see yourself as a debt collector? Carefully read throughMatthew 18:21-35, and prayerfully ask the Lord to speak to you through this passage about any debts that you may be holding over the offender’s head.
  6. ReadEphesians 1:7and2:14. According to these verses, how did God forgive you, and what was the cost? Did you deserve His forgiveness? With that in mind, is it right for you to withhold forgiveness from anyone? Are you placing your offender’s debt against you at a higher level of value than the debt that Christ paid for all of your offenses against Him?