The Two Non-Negotiable Tenets Of True Christianity – Forgiveness And Reconciliation! Series

Forgiveness

1. Biblical Foundation:

Jesus emphasized forgiveness repeatedly. In the Lord’s Prayer, He taught, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). He also said, “If you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins” (Matthew 6:15).

This shows that forgiveness is not optional but a requirement for receiving God’s forgiveness.

2. Example of Christ:

Despite being unjustly crucified on the cross, Jesus exemplified forgiveness by praying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). This act sets the ultimate standard for Christians.

This moment illustrates that forgiveness is possible even in the most painful circumstances.

3. Freedom from Bitterness:

Holding onto unforgiveness can lead to bitterness and spiritual bondage. Hebrews 12:15 warns, "See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."

Forgiveness releases the forgiver from the burden of anger and resentment, allowing for spiritual and emotional healing and experience God’s peace.

Illustration:

Imagine carrying a heavy backpack filled with rocks. Each rock represents a grudge or unforgiven offense. The longer you carry it, the heavier it becomes, weighing you down. Forgiveness is like setting down the backpack and walking free. It doesn’t mean the offense didn’t happen, but it releases you from its burden.

4. Command to Love:

Jesus' command to love is central to His teachings, emphasizing love for God, others, and even enemies.

Jesus summarizes the essence of His teachings in Matthew 22:37-39:"Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

In John 13:34-35, Jesus gives a new commandment to His disciples, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Jesus commanded His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). Forgiveness is a practical expression of this love.

Illustration:

Picture a candle lighting another candle in a dark room. Even if the second candle was used to burn the first, the light continues to shine. Love, like light, overcomes darkness and transforms hostility.

Reconciliation

1. Restoration of Relationships: Reconciliation involves repairing broken relationships and restoring peace. Paul writes, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18).

Jesus taught that reconciliation is a priority. In Matthew 5:23-24, He said, "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift."

This shows that reconciliation is more important than even religious rituals.

2. Ministry of Reconciliation: Christians are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, reflecting God’s work in reconciling humanity to Himself through Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, Paul explains that God has given believers the ministry of reconciliation, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation."

As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, both with God and with one another.

3. Unity in the Body of Christ: Reconciliation is essential for maintaining unity within the Church. Ephesians 4:3 urges, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Jesus prayed for His followers to be one, just as He and the Father are one (John 17:21).

When conflicts arise, reconciliation helps restore harmony and reflects the love of Christ.

Illustration:

Think of a broken mirror. The cracks represent broken relationships. Reconciliation is like carefully piecing the mirror back together. It may not look exactly the same as before, but it can still reflect light. Similarly, reconciliation may not erase the past, but it can restore trust and unity.

4. Healing and Wholeness: Reconciliation brings healing to communities and individuals, fostering a spirit of understanding and cooperation.

Reconciliation is a sure path to healing and wholeness as 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 states, "All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation."

Hosea also urges in Chapter 6:1-2 "Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us. 2 "He will revive us after two days; He will raise us up on the third day, that we may live before Him.