Key Verse: "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
- Ephesians 4:32 KJV
Forgiveness is one of the clearest marks of a heart transformed by grace. It does not come naturally to the flesh, which desires justice, vindication, and repayment. Yet Scripture teaches that forgiveness flows from remembering how much we ourselves have been forgiven by God.
Forgiveness Begins with God
Our ability to forgive others rests entirely on God’s mercy toward us. Before we could ever seek Him, God extended forgiveness through the sacrifice of His Son.
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” — Ephesians 1:7 (KJV)
Forgiveness is not earned, it is given. Christ paid the full debt of sin, and because our account is cleared, we are called to clear the accounts of others.
Forgiveness Is a Command, Not a Suggestion
Jesus made forgiveness a requirement for those who follow Him. This command reaches beyond words into the heart.
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” — Matthew 6:14–15 (KJV)
This does not mean forgiveness earns salvation, but it reveals whether we truly understand grace. A forgiven heart becomes a forgiving heart.
Forgiveness Reflects Christ
When Peter asked Jesus how often he should forgive, Jesus answered with a number that points to limitless mercy.
“Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” — Matthew 18:22 (KJV)
Christ forgave us while we were yet sinners. Forgiveness is not dependent on an apology, repentance, or restitution from the offender—it is an act of obedience and faith.
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8 (KJV)
Forgiveness Frees the Believer
Unforgiveness binds the heart with bitterness, but forgiveness releases us into peace and spiritual freedom.
“Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” — Hebrews 12:15 (KJV)
Forgiveness does not deny the hurt—it hands the hurt to God. It trusts Him as the righteous Judge.
“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves… for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” — Romans 12:19 (KJV)
Today would be a great day to forgive that one person who has been unforgivable to you.
