Scripture References: Matthew 6:9-15; Mark 11:25; Ephesians 4:30-32; 2 Corinthians 5:19; Psalm 130:4; Isaiah 53:6

Intro: Welcome to this sermon. Let's be honest: our actions and lives often contradict what we say about forgiveness. For the next few weeks, let’s be teachable and willing to face the truth about where we stand. Understanding and practicing forgiveness is crucial for our future impact and relationships. It's not just a good idea; it's essential.

Key Points:

1. Forgiveness Isn't Optional, It's Mandatory: Scripture, especially Matthew 6:14-15, reveals forgiveness isn't a choice for followers of Christ, but a command, a sacred duty. We often think we can hold onto unforgiveness, but God's word indicates otherwise. We need forgiveness because we hurt others, we get hurt, and life itself wounds us.
2. Centrality in Prayer (The Lord's Prayer): In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches us to pray. While we ask God for provision, guidance, and deliverance, the only action commanded of us in that prayer is to forgive others as we ask for forgiveness. Expect God to engage you on this topic when you approach Him in prayer.
3. Understanding What Forgiveness is NOT: Misconceptions keep us stuck. Forgiveness is NOT:
   • Approval: God forgives sin but never approves of it (John 8:11).
   • Excusing: We don't minimize the wrong or make excuses (Numbers 14).
   • Reconciliation: Forgiveness is one-sided; reconciliation requires both parties (2 Cor 5:19). You can forgive without an apology or restored relationship.
   • Denying: True forgiveness acknowledges the seriousness of the hurt.
   • Forgetting: God "remembers no more" by not holding sin against us, not by erasing memory. Forgetting isn't usually possible for us, but forgiveness is.
   • Neglecting Justice: Forgiveness doesn't remove all consequences. You can forgive and still pursue justice or protection.
4. Understanding What Forgiveness IS:
   • A Release: The core meaning is letting go of something tightly held (Mark 11:25).
   • Keeping No Record of Wrongs: Not filing hurts away to use them against someone later. Stop keeping score (Matt 18:22).
   • Refusing to Punish: Giving up the desire for vengeance and trusting God's justice.
   • Being Merciful: Reflecting God's character (Luke 6:36).
   • A Heart Issue: Must be genuine, not just lip service (Matt 18:35).
   • Absence of Bitterness: The only alternative to forgiveness is bitterness, which often relates to the proximity of the offense, not just its size. Bitterness grieves the Spirit (Eph 4:30-32).
   • An Ongoing Process: Often not a one-time event. Keep forgiving when memories or hurt resurface.

Conclusion: Forgiveness is a difficult, heart-level process of releasing bitterness and the desire to punish. It requires acknowledging the hurt without letting it define our response. We ultimately cannot do this without relying on Jesus, who perfectly modeled forgiveness by dying for sins He didn't commit to forgive those who didn't deserve it.

Call to Action: Honestly assess your heart. Is there unforgiveness, bitterness, or infection? If you aren't ready to fully forgive, start with a prayer of permission: "God, I give you permission to change my heart. Make me willing to forgive this person/situation." As we approach communion, remember Jesus. Reflect on His undeserved forgiveness extended to us. Look to Him for the grace and power to walk this path of forgiveness.

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