Forgiveness may seem like a simple word, but who am I kidding? We know it’s anything but simple. In fact, forgiveness can be a fairly complex concept, carrying with it a profound and powerful significance, especially when we consider what it means to God. Let’s break down why forgiveness is so crucial to God, exploring its definition, the command to forgive others, and the divine rules that guide this transformative act.
What Is God’s Definition of Forgiveness?
In the Christian worldview, forgiveness is about more than just saying “sorry” or letting something slide. It’s a complete pardon, a release from the burden of guilt and shame. Consider the term “complete pardon.” This conjures up an image of a prisoner, having paid his debt to society, finally being released from the chains of incarceration. In this image, the other end of those chains is attached to something inanimate (like a building) or impersonal (like the state).
If what we are actually talking about, however, is one person forgiving another—something personal—then the other end of those chains is attached to another human being. In that case, those chains are being released at both ends, meaning that the person doing the forgiving is being released from those bonds as well. Forgiveness, then, appears to be a two-way street.
The Bible uses powerful language to describe the nature of forgiveness. In Hebrew, “kaphar” means to cover or atone, while in Greek, “aphesis” means to release or send away. These words paint a picture of forgiveness as a profound cleansing. A fresh start. The kind of fresh start that two people have when they have been released from the bonds of transgression. Or, if you will, the kind of fresh start we have with God when He forgives us.
Take the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The father’s forgiveness isn’t half-hearted or reluctant; it’s full-throttle, unconditional Love. This story captures the essence of God’s forgiveness; unlimited and always available for those who seek it with a sincere heart. Psalm 103:12 puts it beautifully: “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
This means that when God forgives us, we aren’t just being released from our transgressions; it’s as if those transgressions have completely disappeared, as if they never existed in the first place. This makes sense. If forgiveness is real, and if a debt is truly being wiped out, this is the only way it could be.
One of the most critical and important elements of forgiveness, then, is the idea that once you forgive, you can no longer hold the other person to account for what they’ve done. Just as God wipes the slate clean with us, we must truly—and intentionally—wipe the slate clean with that other person. We can no longer hold this wrongdoing against them.
What Does God Say About Forgiving Others?
God doesn’t just forgive us; He expects us to pass it on. Consider it a divine mandate. In the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35), Jesus tells of a servant who, after being forgiven a massive debt by his master, refuses to forgive a smaller debt owed to him. The master’s anger at this servant’s hypocrisy is a clear warning: If we want God’s forgiveness, we must be willing to forgive others.
And Jesus doesn’t let us off easy. In Luke 17:3-4, He says, “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Forgiveness isn’t a one-time deal; it’s a lifestyle. Something you should expect to be doing, in some way, shape, or form, practically every day. It’s not easy, but I would argue that that’s part of the point.
What Is God’s Rule on Forgiveness?
Forgiveness isn’t optional for Christians; it’s a commandment straight from God. Ephesians 4:32 urges us to “Be kind and Compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This isn’t just about being nice; it’s about reflecting God’s own Mercy in our lives.
The Lord’s Prayer, recited by millions daily, includes the plea: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). This isn’t a casual request. It’s a commitment to live a life of forgiveness, echoing God’s forgiveness of us.
Forgiveness is also key to healing and reconciliation. Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This isn’t just about letting go of grudges; it’s about fostering unity and peace within our communities, reflecting God’s desire for harmony among His people.
Profound And Demanding
In the grand scheme of things, God’s view on forgiveness is both profound and demanding, as it should be. It’s about a deep, unconditional release of offenses, mirroring the boundless Mercy God extends to us. Forgiving others isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s a divine imperative that ensures our own forgiveness and promotes peace in our communities. God’s rules on forgiveness call for a continual, sincere effort to forgive, reflecting His infinite Mercy.
It also perfectly exemplifies the purposeful and intentional spirit of Compassion. By embracing forgiveness, we align ourselves with God’s heart, becoming vessels of His Grace and Love. In a world often marked by division and resentment, forgiveness is a powerful testament to God’s transforming power.
Now What?
Forgiveness And Healing
Whether you’re seeking forgiveness, offering it, or simply trying to understand what it really means, this book meets you exactly where you are. And walks with you from there.
Drawing from biblical truths, real-life stories, and a little irreverent humor (because let’s be honest, healing is hard enough), this book offers practical steps and heartfelt insights for anyone trying to let go of past hurts.
Currently available on Kindle, Paperback, Hardcover or Signed.
If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t forgive them,” or “I can’t forgive myself,”, this book is for you.