It is difficult to cover all aspects of forgiveness in 20 minutes. So below are some aspects that are not covered in today’s talk:
Forgiveness and Repentance
Since forgiveness is a gift, it can only be effective if it is received. A person will only receive forgiveness if they repent. Just like God does not forgive people unless they repent, so too can we not forgive people without repentance. If they are unwilling to repent, or perhaps they have passed away, making repentance impossible, we can OFFER them forgiveness. This avoids bitterness growing.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
If a person repents of their wrong, and we forgive them, sometimes the hurt is so deep that we cannot go back to the way it was. Only in heaven will such relationships be fully reconciled. Yet sometimes the process of reconciliation leads to an even better relationship than before.
Forgiveness and Justice
Forgiveness does not overthrow justice. There are consequences for sin; and just because you forgive someone doesn’t mean those consequences are removed. You can forgive someone while you’re ringing the police to come and get them.
Forgiveness and Trust
Forgiveness does not require trust. Trust is lost in a second but takes years to restore. We can forgive someone without putting our trust back in them. For example, you can forgive someone for embezzling money; but you don’t then make them church treasurer.
