Forgiveness: How Much?
“Forgiveness”: One of the things in human relationships we sometimes have trouble with. In the Holy Bible, Jesus talked a lot about forgiveness. In the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 18, verses 15-20, Jesus was teaching his disciples (and us) how to deal with strained or broken relationships between fellow believers. He said, (in verse 15),
“If your brother (and I assume we could say “your sister”) sin against you, go and talk it over: tell him or her their fault - just between the two of you.” Now you and I know that this is tough to do, but it is “Jesus” instructions, if you want that relationship restored, and I’m sure Jesus does. Jesus wants forgiveness, love, joy and peace between His followers. Jesus said, “if your brother (or sister) listens to you, you have gained your brother (or sister) back. But, Jesus said, if he (or she) will not listen to you, take one or two fellow Christians along with you, as mediators or witnesses.
If the person refuses to listen to them, ask the church to intervene, and if he or she refuses to listen to the church, then that person is considered a non-Christian, “Gentile or tax collector” were the terms Jesus used, for they were considered “sinners”. He was emphasizing so strongly how important good and loving relationships are between His disciples.
But old Peter wasn’t satisfied with that and wanted to Push the margins: He said to Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus replied to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.” OK! You can get out your “score card” and keep “tally”? NO - that’s not what Jesus meant.
He meant boundless forgiveness. Forgive others as God forgives you. That’s God’s measure of Forgiveness!
Rev. Phillip Erwin, Pastor
First Prebyterian Church
...
