0
0
It is recommended that these questions be read in-conjunction with the blog “The Power of Forgiveness”
Question 1.
This concept of forgiveness can be applied to many areas of our lives. To the sins, hurt and pain we have caused aswell as been subjected to. Have a look at the filters you view the world through. Do they show a distrust for authority, disrespect towards parents/parental figures. Do they show a need for constant striving for acceptance and self worth. Irrespective of how long your list is, what you do about these filters is your choice!
Question 2.
The nature of forgiveness is such that it is not a sweet tonic that is widely dispersed around the world like air-freshener sprayed from a can.
Have you ever had a ‘discussion’ with someone regarding all the times they have forgiven you? How does it make you feel when considering the dishonest, disrespectful or even despicable things that you may or may not have done?
Question 3.
The Bible says that we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14). It also assures us that once we have received the Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, we enjoy freedom from sin’s eternal condemnation. (Romans 8:1)
Have you ever wanted to go into hiding when you have done something wrong, fearful of the reaction or condemnation to follow? Is it to avoid confronting the person you have wronged, or is it because you know God will forgive and forget your sins quicker than another.
Question 4.
The Bible is full of accounts of people being forgiven for their sins, foolish mistakes and repeated offences. In the book of Genesis alone there are accounts of jealousy, anger, violence and deception, all leaving a trail of damaged relationships. Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob displayed flawed characters yet are applauded as heroes of the faith (Hebrews 11). Do you keep account of the things you have done that need to be forgiven, wondering how much more God will tolerate?
If God demonstrated forgiveness throughout the Bible and history, why wouldn’t He forgive you?
Question 5.
In Luke 23, Jesus prayed a prayer of forgiveness for those who were punishing and crucifying Him. He asked God to forgive those putting Him to death because they did not know what they were doing.
We don’t always consider the impact of our sins on others. If you are following the crowd, intentionally acting from a place of rage or intoxication, selfishness or foolishness, how do you think God is going to feel about your intentional sins, compared with the mistakes you make in error?
