Introduction

Good morning, Church family. I’m thrilled to see all of you here today as we delve into the lesser-known book of Obadiah. As we explore the only chapter of this small but mighty book, Obadiah 1, we’ll be focusing on three important themes that are as relevant today as they were back then: The Need for Forgiveness, The Benefits of Forgiveness, and The Call to Forgive.

In the words of the great Christian author, Corrie Ten Boom, "Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart." This powerful quote is a stirring reminder that forgiveness isn't dependent on our feelings but is inherently about our decision to let go of bitterness and embrace grace.

Let's read the full Scripture passage together. [Read text.]

Let's bow our heads in prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this opportunity to come together as a community and study your Word. As we explore the book of Obadiah, guide our hearts and minds to better understand and embrace the power and beauty of forgiveness. Help us reflect on our own lives, recognizing where we need to seek forgiveness and where we need to extend it. In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen.

I. The Need for Forgiveness

The Need for Forgiveness is a fundamental principle that underscores our relationship with God and with one another. The book of Obadiah, despite its brevity, offers a profound exploration of this theme.

Obadiah, a prophet of God, was tasked with delivering a message to the Edomites, a nation that had wronged the Israelites, God's chosen people. The Edomites' transgressions were severe, marked by pride, arrogance, and a lack of remorse for their actions. They were in dire need of forgiveness, not only from those they had wronged but also from God. This need for forgiveness is not unique to the Edomites. It is a universal human condition. We all, at various points in our lives, find ourselves in situations where we have wronged others and stand in need of their forgiveness.

A. The need for forgiveness is not merely a social requirement for harmonious coexistence. It is a spiritual necessity. Sin, which can be defined as any action, thought, or attitude that is contrary to God's character, creates a barrier between us and God. It disrupts the relationship that God desires to have with us. This is where the need for forgiveness comes in. Forgiveness, in this context, is the act of God removing the barrier of sin and restoring the broken relationship.

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23 that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse underscores the universal need for forgiveness. No one is exempt. We all have sinned. We all have fallen short. We all need forgiveness.

B. But why do we need forgiveness? One might argue that we can simply strive to do better, to correct our wrongs, to make amends. While these are commendable actions, they do not address the root of the problem. Our sins are not just mistakes that can be corrected or erased by good deeds. They are offenses against a holy and righteous God. They are a violation of His perfect standard. And because God is just, there must be a penalty for sin. The Bible tells us in Romans 6:23 that "the wages of sin is death." This is a spiritual death, a separation from God.

C. Forgiveness, therefore, is not just about making things right with those we have wronged. It is about making things right with God. It is about acknowledging our sins, repenting, and seeking God's forgiveness. It is about accepting the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on the cross, where He paid the penalty for our sins so that we could be forgiven and reconciled to God.

D. The need for forgiveness is also a call to humility. It requires us to acknowledge our shortcomings, our failures, our sins. It requires us to admit that we are not perfect, that we are in need of God's grace. This is not always easy. Pride, like that of the Edomites, can often stand in the way. But as we humble ourselves and seek forgiveness, we find that it is a transformative experience, one that brings healing, restoration, and peace.

II. The Benefits of Forgiveness

The benefits of forgiveness are manifold, and they are not just spiritual but also emotional and physical ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO