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Forgiving Others


There are sins in the Bible that required the death penalty. The death penalty was based on the civil law. The sacrificial law provided forgiveness for sins.

The civil law was transferred to the civil government (Romans 13, 1 Peter 2, Titus 3). The sacrificial system was fulfilled in the death of Jesus Christ. Forgiveness for sins is provided.

Vengeance was prohibited in the Old Testament and is prohibited in the New Testament.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21).

Something seems to be neglected in the church today. That is the willingness to forgive others whom God has forgiven. “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32).

We have reasons to keep from forgiving:

“I do not think he is repentant.”

“I do not think God has forgiven him.”

“I have forgiven him, but I cannot forget.”

“I have forgiven him, but I do not trust him.”

These reasons show that forgiveness has not been from the heart. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart” (Matthew 18:35).


This post coordinates with today's reading in the To the Word! Bible Reading Challenge. If you are not in a daily reading plan, please join us at TotheWord.com. We would love to have you reading with us.

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