Forgiveness

[428 words] “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” (Eph. 4:32). The character of the Christian includes “bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you” (Col. 3:13). What has God said about this beautiful gift that we can (and must) extend to each other? Specifically, what roles do repentance and restitution play in the interchange between the offender and the offended? Must repentance happen before forgiveness can be granted? These will be the questions we will explore more deeply at the worship hour. But by way of summary, let me offer you the following thoughts. If we harbor an unforgiving attitude toward others, God will not forgive us (Matt. 6:14-15; 18:35). Each of us should emulate our Father by consistently maintaining an intense…