The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & Forgiveness, Part 2

Scripture References: Matthew 18:21-35; Matthew 6:12, 14-15

Intro: Welcome to this sermon revisiting the vital topic of forgiveness, drawing from Matthew 18's Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. Especially relevant during family-focused holiday seasons, forgiveness is perhaps the greatest gift we can give or receive—releasing others from debt, just as God has released us.

Key Points:

1. Forgiveness is Not Optional (Matt 18:21-35): Jesus' command to forgive "77 times" and the parable's severe consequence for the unforgiving servant demonstrate that forgiveness is mandatory for those who follow Him. Because God forgave our immense debt through Christ, we must extend forgiveness to others. Holding onto unforgiveness traps us in bitterness.
2. Forgiveness is Possible (Dispelling Myths): The path feels difficult, often blocked by misconceptions: 
   • It's NOT always Reconciliation: Forgiveness is a personal act of release you can do alone; reconciliation requires mutual willingness.
   • It's NOT Forgetting: It means choosing not to hold the offense against the person anymore, not erasing the memory.
   • It's NOT Neglecting Justice: Forgiveness releases personal vengeance to God; it doesn't necessarily remove natural consequences or the need for societal justice.
3. What True Forgiveness Involves: Modeled by the merciful king in the parable: 
   • Acknowledge the Hurt: Name the offense truthfully without minimizing it.
   • Identify with the Offender: See their shared humanity and brokenness, moving beyond caricature.
   • Absorb the Cost: Choose to cancel the debt internally, refusing to make them "pay" further.
   • Release: Let go of the offense and the person, entrusting judgment and outcomes to God.
4. The Heart of Forgiveness: Kingdom Desire: Ultimately, forgiving from the heart requires desiring God's will ("Your kingdom come") more than our own desire for retribution. It flows from recognizing our own need for mercy and receiving the grace modeled by Jesus, our Servant King.

Conclusion: Forgiveness is an essential, albeit challenging, aspect of kingdom living, made possible by the immense grace we've received. It's a process rooted in aligning our hearts with God's, choosing release over bitterness, and trusting His justice and restoration.

Call to Action: Recognize the command to forgive. Ask God to expose any myths blocking your path. Pray "Your kingdom come, Your will be done" over specific hurts, asking for the desire and strength to release offenders. Come to communion remembering the cross—God's ultimate act of forgiveness—empowering you to forgive.

radiantvisalia.com
The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & Forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-35)
with Travis Aicklen