GOSPEL FORGIVENESS

Matthew 18:21-35

FORGIVEN people forgive people.

OBSERVATIONS ABOUT FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness is

Forgiveness is not

there was an offense.

Forgiveness is grounded in the

.
  The

to forgiveness is to remember you’re

STEPS TO FORGIVE:

Recognize the offense. (24)

Remember the gospel. (26)

Release the offender. (27)

Repeat.

Discussion Guide

Open Up
Do you find it easy or difficult to forgive? Why is this?

Do you agree that our culture devalues forgiveness? Why or why not?

Can you think of other instances in the early church where believers needed to forgive?

Dig In
Read Ephesians 4:32 and Colossians 3:13. How do these passages support the idea that forgiveness is grounded in the gospel?

Which of the observations about forgiveness is most meaningful to you and why?

Are there any steps you would add to the Steps to Forgive?

How might studying theology and the Bible help us be able to forgive more easily? (Hint: see the third observation)

Live Out
What can you practically do this week to help yourself remember you’re forgiven that you might be more ready to forgive?

Is there an issue for which you need prayer so you might forgive?