Forgiveness

Sermon Date:  May 22, 2016

Sermon Topic: Forgiveness

Sermon Notes:

Colossians 3:12 – 13 – Even as Christ forgave you so are we to do. When Jesus was being crucified and they whipped him all night long, he forgave.

Jesus wants us to mature spiritually where you can say no matter what they say or do you can ask for forgiveness for them. Forgiveness is an act of love. Every Christian in the world is my brother or sister.

Spiritual lives require diligent attention. Do you have the right to be offended? If you are easily offended, you will be offended often.

The foundation for us is to love. We are to love each other as Christ loved us. Justice demanded that we get what we deserve but mercy says, no. Mercy is new each day.

We think, say and do those things which align with God’s word.

Stay in your lane.

That’s where the blessings are. God wants to bless you right here. You’re in a place where God wans you to be but you must watch out for temptation. Don’t move out of your lines. He gave all of us gifts. Operate in your gift. Isaiah 26:3 – I’ll keep you in perfect peace. It’s impossible to become offended. Let the peace of God rule.

When you’re offended don’t broadcast it, don’t retaliate. Forgive them right there. Turn the other cheek.

Forgiveness – don’t keep a record of offenses.

We must face our thoughts and our own faults. When we are wrong we are to forgive. When it’s hard to forgive, remember who forgave you.

We can never get to the point where we say that’s enough we have to forgive those even if they commit the same sins.

The power to forgive comes from the power of love.

The love of Christ constrains us to forgive. Begin without judging motives.