Forgiveness

This powerful exploration of forgiveness challenges us to examine what might be the single greatest barrier to our spiritual growth: unforgiveness. Drawing from Matthew 6:14-15 and Mark 11:25, we're confronted with an uncomfortable truth—our ability to receive God's forgiveness is directly connected to our willingness to forgive others. The message dismantles common misconceptions about what forgiveness actually means, clarifying that it's not about forgetting harm, excusing behavior, or removing consequences. Instead, forgiveness is defined as an act of grace where we release offenders from their moral debt, entrusting justice to God while choosing mercy because God first extended mercy to us. The sermon brings this home through the lens of Colossians 3:13, reminding us to forgive as the Lord forgave us—while we were still sinners. What makes this message particularly compelling is its honest acknowledgment that forgiveness is incredibly difficult to practice, even though it's easy to preach. The statistics are sobering: nearly a quarter of professing Christians admit there's someone they simply cannot forgive. This unforgiveness doesn't just affect our relationship with that person—it poisons our entire spiritual life, blocking our growth, stealing our peace, and affecting everyone around us. The good news? The moment we choose life and choose forgiveness, we set in motion a trajectory of healing that begins immediately.