Forgiveness

The theology of forgiveness has been around since the Garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve sinned, they repented to God (after some blame gaming), and He forgave them. He made clothes for them with His own hands to cover them, a symbol of the covering of sin. Although they had consequences for their sin, which effected everyone else to come in the world, they were forgiven.

God's plan of redemption was not a reaction to our sins, it was planned all along. How would we know how gracious and forgiving He is if we never sinned? How would we know how sinful we were if we didn't repent and receive His grace and mercy?

Throughout human history there has been a struggle amongst all men and women with forgiveness, whether it be they don't want to forgive or they think they are unforgivable. With all the pride amongst our flesh it is no wonder this is such a huge problem. We make up stupid levels of things people could do that are forgivable or unforgivable. As if we are the judge of what is the line, or where is should be drawn. God said to forgive, He didn't add some line of well if they do this then you don't have to forgive, He said forgive. He did not say that you have to stay in a relationship to the person that has offended, but we are to pray for them and we are to forgive them whether they think they need forgiveness or not. Reconciliation of the relationship takes two people, but we are to forgive no matter what the offense. We are to forgive as God forgives us, He didn't say He would forgive this sin or that sin, He said He forgives ALL your sin and remembers it no more.

In the next few weeks we will explore more on forgiveness and how to have short memories when is comes to offense. You can not walk in the Spirit and be unforgiving. You can not have joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, forbearance, or love if you are unforgiving. And you certainly can not shine the Light of Christ into this dark world if you are acting like the world.