The Gift of Forgiveness Read | Colossians 3:12-17 Webster defines gift as “something given to show friendship, affection, support.” Using this definition, it seems logical to give gifts only to those we love, not to those who hurt or abuse us. Yet scripture clearly commands us to offer one of the greatest possible gifts—forgiveness—to those who mistreat us. To forgive means “to give up all claims to punish or exact a penalty for an offense.” No strings or conditions can be attached, or else it ceases to be a pardon. Ephesians 2:8-9 expands on this concept by contrasting the gift of salvation with works. Neither salvation nor forgiveness can be earned; both must be freely given. Just as God granted us forgiveness, which we did not deserve and could not earn, so we are to release every offender from any form of penalty.
Posted on: Tue, 09 Jul 2013 12:20:54 +0000
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