The Need to Forgive
Matthew 5:7 Introduction:
It is a commonly understood precept
among most Christians that we are in dire need of forgiveness. Yet there is another need
that we have concerning forgiveness that is not given quite as much consideration. That is
the need to forgive. I. Our Need for Forgiveness
A. God has expectations for us
"Be ye holy, as I am holy" 1(Peter 1:16)
B. Yet we fail Him
"For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23)
1. Not once but many times
2. Even in our best efforts, we are only human
3. That is not to be used as an excuse, but as an understanding of weakness
C. Therefore, we constantly seek His
forgiveness
D. We seek not justice, but mercy
1. Such was the reason for our baptism (Acts 2:38)
2. Such is the reason for constant prayer
3. Matt. 6:9-15 II. Our Need to Forgive
A. Peace of Mind 1 Peter
3:8-11
B. Peace with others Rom.
12:17-21
C. Peace with God Col. 3:12-15
; Mark 11:25,26 III. Our Duty to Forgive
A. We are commanded to be kind,
tender hearted and forgiving Eph. 4:31,32
B. We are to forgive as often as
needed Matt. 18:21
C. We are to be merciful like God
is merciful Luke 6:36 IV. The Reward of Forgiveness
A. The merciful will receive mercy Matt.
5:7,39
B. The forgiving will receive
forgiveness Matt. 6:9-15 Conclusion:
Each of us has need for forgiveness.
We each as well have the need to forgive, for unless we offer forgiveness we can never
receive it. I urge you to consider your standing on these two items today.
First let each of us examine
ourselves to see our need for forgiveness. Do you need the prayers of the church? Do you
need to pray in private for forgiveness? Do you need to be baptized for the forgiveness of
your sins? (Acts 2:38)
Second, is there hatred in your
heart? Do you bear a grudge? Do you harbor ill feelings toward someone else? Remember Mark
11:25, forgive and you shall be forgiven. Michael E. Grooms
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