What Jesus Commands Us to Forgive Someone?

Forgiveness is one of the most powerful and transformative aspects of Christian faith.

It’s not just a suggestion but a command from Jesus himself.

Understanding what Jesus says about forgiveness can change how you interact with others and how you view your own life.

Let’s delve into this crucial aspect of Christianity and see how it applies to your life.

Why Forgive?

First, it’s essential to understand why forgiveness is so important.

Jesus teaches that forgiveness is fundamental to our relationship with God and others.

The Importance of Forgiveness

Restores Relationships:

Forgiveness heals broken relationships, whether with friends, family, or even yourself.

Relieves Burden:

Holding onto grudges is exhausting.

Forgiveness frees you from the emotional weight of resentment.

Reflects God’s Love:

By forgiving others, you emulate God’s unconditional love and mercy.

What Jesus Says About Forgiveness

Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness are scattered throughout the New Testament.

They’re not just rules but guiding principles that show the heart of God’s love.

Forgive Unlimited Times

One of the most famous teachings on forgiveness comes from a conversation between Jesus and Peter.

Peter asked Jesus,

“Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”

Jesus answered,

“I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:21-22, NIV).

Key Takeaway

Jesus isn’t giving a specific number.

He means forgiveness should be limitless, indicating an attitude of continuous grace.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

In Matthew 18:23-35, Jesus tells the parable of the unforgiving servant.

A king forgives his servant a massive debt, but that servant refuses to forgive a smaller debt owed to him by another.

When the king finds out, he punishes the servant.

This parable teaches that because God has forgiven our immense sins, we must also forgive others.

Key Takeaway

We should forgive others because God has forgiven us more than we could ever imagine.

How to Forgive

Forgiveness isn’t always easy.

It can be a challenging process, especially when the hurt is deep.

However, Jesus’ teachings provide a framework to help you through it.

#1. Pray for Strength

Forgiveness requires strength that sometimes you don’t feel you have.

Jesus often retreated to pray, especially when facing difficult situations.

Follow His example and pray for the strength to forgive.

#2. Let Go of Resentment

Holding onto anger and resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.

Jesus teaches us to let go of these negative emotions.

In Mark 11:25, Jesus says,

“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

Practical Steps:

Acknowledge Your Pain:

Don’t deny your hurt.

Acknowledge it fully to begin the healing process.

Decide to Forgive:

Forgiveness is a choice.

Decide to let go of your anger.

Seek Support:

Talk to friends, family, or a pastor about your struggle to forgive.

Follow Jesus’ Example

Jesus’ ultimate act of forgiveness was on the cross.

As He was being crucified, He prayed,

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34, NIV).

If Jesus can forgive those who were killing Him, you can find it within yourself to forgive those who hurt you.

The Benefits of Forgiving

Forgiveness doesn’t just help the person you’re forgiving.

It benefits you profoundly.

#1. Mental and Emotional Health

Numerous studies show that forgiveness can lead to better mental and emotional health.

Forgiving reduces stress, anxiety, and depression.

It promotes a sense of peace and well-being.

#2. Spiritual Growth

Forgiving others is a step towards spiritual maturity.

It deepens your relationship with God and aligns your heart with His will.

#3. Better Relationships

When you practice forgiveness, you improve your relationships.

Trust and empathy grow, leading to healthier, more fulfilling interactions with others.

Common Misconceptions About Forgiveness

There are several misconceptions about forgiveness that can make it seem harder than it is.

Let’s clear some of those up.

Forgiveness Is Not Forgetting

Forgiving doesn’t mean you have to forget what happened.

It means you choose to let go of the bitterness associated with it.

Forgiveness Is Not Excusing

Forgiving someone doesn’t mean you’re saying what they did was okay.

It means you’re choosing to release the hold their actions have over you.

Forgiveness Doesn’t Require an Apology

You don’t need to wait for someone to apologize to forgive them.

Forgiveness is about freeing yourself, not about their actions.

Conclusion

Jesus commands us to forgive because it’s essential for our well-being and spiritual health.

By forgiving others, you reflect God’s grace and love.

Remember, forgiveness is a process that takes time and effort, but it’s worth every step.

Start today by praying for the strength to forgive, letting go of resentment, and following Jesus’ example.

You’ll find that as you forgive others, you’ll experience more peace, joy, and freedom in your own life.

What Jesus Commands Us to Forgive Someone

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Forgiveness

1. Why does Jesus command us to forgive?

Jesus commands us to forgive because it restores relationships, relieves emotional burdens, and reflects God’s unconditional love.

Forgiveness is essential for spiritual growth and aligns our hearts with God’s will.

2. How many times should I forgive someone?

Jesus taught that we should forgive “seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:22), meaning our forgiveness should be limitless.

We are called to continually extend grace to others.

3. What if the person I need to forgive hasn’t apologized?

Forgiveness doesn’t depend on receiving an apology.

It’s about freeing yourself from the hold their actions have over you.

You can choose to forgive regardless of whether the other person has apologized.

4. Does forgiving someone mean I have to forget what they did?

No, forgiveness doesn’t mean you have to forget the offense.

It means you let go of the bitterness and resentment associated with it, allowing yourself to heal and move forward.

5. How can I find the strength to forgive?

Pray for strength and guidance.

Following Jesus’ example and seeking support from friends, family, or a pastor can help you through the process of forgiveness.

6. What are the benefits of forgiving someone?

Forgiving someone can improve your mental and emotional health, deepen your spiritual growth, and enhance your relationships.

It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting a sense of peace and well-being.

7. Does forgiving someone mean what they did was okay?

No, forgiving someone doesn’t mean you’re excusing their behavior.

It means you’re choosing to release the anger and resentment, which helps you heal and move forward.

8. How do I let go of resentment?

Acknowledge Your Pain: Recognize and accept your hurt feelings.
Decide to Forgive: Make a conscious choice to forgive.
Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a pastor about your struggle.
Pray: Ask God for the strength to forgive and let go of negative emotions.

9. Can forgiveness improve my relationships?

Yes, practicing forgiveness can significantly improve your relationships.

It fosters trust, empathy, and healthier interactions with others, leading to more fulfilling connections.

10. What if I struggle to forgive?

If you find it challenging to forgive, it’s essential to be patient with yourself.

Forgiveness is a process that takes time.

Seek support, pray for strength, and remind yourself of Jesus’ teachings and example.