Choosing Forgiveness Over Revenge: A Divine Call
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. My name is Sam, and I am grateful to see you all here today. Whether you are a regular attendee or someone who has mustered the courage to come back after a long time, thank you for being here. It is a privilege to gather freely and worship together. Sometimes, following God feels more like stumbling than walking, but we are here to learn and grow together. Let's start with a prayer, thanking God for the freedom to gather and asking for His guidance as we turn our attention to His word.
Today, I want to talk about revenge and settling scores. It's a topic that resonates with many of us because we have an innate desire for justice and fairness. However, this desire often toes the line of revenge. J.R.R. Tolkien once said that revenge is useless and heals nothing, yet we still daydream about it when we are hurt. Revenge isn't just physical retribution; it can be small actions, attitudes, or decisions. For example, Andre Dawson, a former Chicago Cubs outfielder, was fined $1,000 for arguing with an umpire. In the memo line of his check, he wrote, "donation for the blind," as a way to settle the score.
The Bible teaches us a different approach. In Exodus 34, God reveals Himself to Moses as compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness. Forgiveness is in the heart of God, and we are never more like Him than when we forgive. The story of the prodigal son illustrates this beautifully. The father, representing God, runs to embrace his returning son without a list of grievances. This act of forgiveness is a powerful example of God's love for us.
Jesus also taught us to turn the other cheek, a concept that is often misunderstood. In Matthew 5, He says that if someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek as well. This teaching goes against the cultural norm of retaliation and revenge. In Roman times, a soldier could demand a civilian to carry his gear for a mile, but Jesus said to carry it for two miles. This act of going the extra mile is a form of non-retaliation and generosity.
Forgiveness is not just a commandment; it is something Jesus demonstrated. He did not retaliate when He was insulted or threatened revenge when He suffered. Instead, He left His case in the hands of God, who judges fairly. This is a powerful lesson for us. We are called to forgive as the Lord forgave us, even when it is hard. Colossians 3 tells us to make allowances for each other's faults and forgive anyone who offends us.
In Leviticus 24, we see the principle of "an eye for an eye" as a guide for legal judgment. However, Jesus took this to a higher level by teaching us not to resist an evil person. Instead of seeking revenge, we are to turn the other cheek. This teaching is about having a non-avenging, non-retaliatory, but humble and gentle spirit. It is a call to live differently from the world, to love our enemies, and to not repay evil for evil.
Forgiveness is a verbal declaration and a promise not to seek retaliation. It is a recognition that we have been wronged but a commitment to not let that wrong define our actions. Jesus showed us this on the cross when He asked God to forgive His torturers. We forgive because Jesus forgave us, and He is worth it. The author of Romans reminds us to leave revenge to the righteous anger of God, who will judge fairly.
Let's take a moment to reflect on those who have hurt us. Imagine sitting across from them and choosing to forgive, just as Christ forgave us. This act of turning the other cheek is not about being a doormat but about embodying the love and forgiveness that Jesus showed us. Let's pray for the strength to forgive and to live out this radical call to love and forgiveness.
### Key Takeaways
1. Forgiveness Reflects God's Heart: Forgiveness is deeply rooted in the nature of God. When God revealed Himself to Moses, He described Himself as compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness. Forgiveness is not just an act but a reflection of God's character. When we forgive, we mirror God's love and grace to the world. [41:33]
2. The Prodigal Son and God's Unconditional Love: The story of the prodigal son illustrates God's unconditional love and readiness to forgive. The father in the story, representing God, runs to embrace his returning son without any questions or lists of grievances. This act of forgiveness shows that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. [42:29]
3. Jesus' Teaching on Non-Retaliation: Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5 about turning the other cheek is a call to a higher standard of living. It goes against the cultural norm of retaliation and revenge. Instead of seeking revenge, Jesus calls us to respond with generosity and non-retaliation, reflecting a humble and gentle spirit. [44:22]
4. Forgiveness as a Verbal Declaration and Promise: Forgiveness is a verbal declaration and a promise not to seek retaliation. It is a recognition that we have been wronged but a commitment to not let that wrong define our actions. This process of forgiveness is a way to break the cycle of revenge and embody the love and grace that Jesus showed us. [41:08]
5. Jesus' Example on the Cross: Jesus' plea for forgiveness for His torturers while on the cross is the ultimate example of turning the other cheek. He chose not to repay evil for evil but instead asked God to forgive those who were hurting Him. This act of forgiveness shows that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes. [46:21]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[23:29] - Opening Prayer
[24:09] - Introduction to Revenge
[24:56] - The Futility of Revenge
[25:37] - Andre Dawson's Story
[26:15] - Desire for Justice and Fairness
[26:53] - Legal System and Revenge
[27:35] - Withholding Retaliation
[28:15] - Resolving Disputes
[29:41] - Standard of Forgiveness
[30:18] - Forgiveness as a Process
[31:24] - Stories of Revenge
[32:23] - Biblical Perspective on Revenge
[33:13] - Leviticus 24: Eye for an Eye
[34:23] - Misapplication of Old Testament Law
[37:18] - Cultural Context of Turning the Other Cheek
[38:14] - Modern Examples of Dishonor
[38:57] - Insult and Retaliation
[39:33] - Non-Retaliatory Spirit
[40:06] - Antithesis of Retaliation
[41:33] - God's Nature of Forgiveness
[42:29] - The Prodigal Son
[43:24] - The Father's Embrace
[43:59] - Jesus' Illustrations of Generosity
[44:22] - Going the Extra Mile
[45:17] - Jesus' Example of Forgiveness
[45:48] - Jesus on the Cross
[46:21] - Our Worth to God
[47:19] - Leaving Revenge to God
[48:01] - Reflecting on Forgiveness
[48:42] - Offering the Other Cheek
[50:22] - Living Peaceably
[51:18] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 34:6-7 - "The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin."
2. Matthew 5:38-42 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you."
3. Colossians 3:13 - "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Exodus 34:6-7, how does God describe Himself to Moses? What attributes are highlighted?
2. In Matthew 5:38-42, what specific actions does Jesus instruct His followers to take in response to being wronged?
3. What does Colossians 3:13 instruct believers to do when they have grievances against one another?
4. How did Jesus demonstrate forgiveness on the cross, according to the sermon? ([45:48])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is forgiveness described as a reflection of God's character in Exodus 34:6-7? How does this shape our understanding of forgiveness?
2. How does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:38-42 challenge the cultural norms of His time regarding retaliation and revenge? ([37:18])
3. What does it mean to "bear with each other" and "forgive as the Lord forgave you" in Colossians 3:13? How might this look in practical terms within a church community?
4. How does the story of the prodigal son illustrate God's unconditional love and readiness to forgive? ([42:29])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt wronged. How did you respond? How might you respond differently in light of Jesus' teaching to turn the other cheek? ([39:33])
2. Think of someone who has hurt you. What steps can you take to forgive them, following the example of Jesus on the cross? ([45:48])
3. How can you cultivate a non-retaliatory, humble, and gentle spirit in your daily interactions, especially when faced with insults or unfair treatment? ([40:06])
4. In what ways can you go the extra mile in showing generosity and kindness to those who may not deserve it, as Jesus instructed in Matthew 5:41? ([44:50])
5. How does understanding forgiveness as a verbal declaration and a promise not to seek retaliation change your perspective on dealing with conflicts? ([41:08])
6. Identify a specific relationship in your life where forgiveness and reconciliation are needed. What practical steps can you take this week to move towards healing in that relationship? ([28:15])
7. How can you remind yourself of God's forgiveness towards you when you find it difficult to forgive others? What practices or habits can help reinforce this mindset? ([41:33])
Devotional
Day 1: Forgiveness Reflects God's Heart
Forgiveness is deeply rooted in the nature of God. When God revealed Himself to Moses, He described Himself as compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness. This means that forgiveness is not just an act but a reflection of God's character. When we forgive, we mirror God's love and grace to the world. This is a powerful reminder that our actions can reflect the divine nature of God, showing others the depth of His love and mercy.
Forgiveness is a way to break the cycle of revenge and embody the love and grace that Jesus showed us. It is a verbal declaration and a promise not to seek retaliation. It is a recognition that we have been wronged but a commitment to not let that wrong define our actions. This process of forgiveness is a way to break the cycle of revenge and embody the love and grace that Jesus showed us. [41:33]
Exodus 34:6-7 (ESV): "The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, 'The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.'"
Reflection: Think of a time when you were wronged. How can you reflect God's heart by choosing to forgive that person today?
Day 2: The Prodigal Son and God's Unconditional Love
The story of the prodigal son illustrates God's unconditional love and readiness to forgive. The father in the story, representing God, runs to embrace his returning son without any questions or lists of grievances. This act of forgiveness shows that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. This is a powerful reminder of God's love for us and His willingness to forgive us, no matter what we have done.
This story is a beautiful illustration of God's love and forgiveness. It shows that God is always ready to forgive us and welcome us back into His arms. No matter how far we have strayed, God is always ready to forgive us and welcome us back into His arms. This is a powerful reminder of God's love for us and His willingness to forgive us, no matter what we have done. [42:29]
Luke 15:20-24 (ESV): "And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt far from God. How did you experience His unconditional love and forgiveness?
Day 3: Jesus' Teaching on Non-Retaliation
Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5 about turning the other cheek is a call to a higher standard of living. It goes against the cultural norm of retaliation and revenge. Instead of seeking revenge, Jesus calls us to respond with generosity and non-retaliation, reflecting a humble and gentle spirit. This teaching is about having a non-avenging, non-retaliatory, but humble and gentle spirit. It is a call to live differently from the world, to love our enemies, and to not repay evil for evil.
This teaching is about having a non-avenging, non-retaliatory, but humble and gentle spirit. It is a call to live differently from the world, to love our enemies, and to not repay evil for evil. This is a powerful reminder that we are called to live differently from the world, to love our enemies, and to not repay evil for evil. [44:22]
Matthew 5:38-42 (ESV): "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you were tempted to retaliate. How can you respond with generosity and a humble spirit instead?
Day 4: Forgiveness as a Verbal Declaration and Promise
Forgiveness is a verbal declaration and a promise not to seek retaliation. It is a recognition that we have been wronged but a commitment to not let that wrong define our actions. This process of forgiveness is a way to break the cycle of revenge and embody the love and grace that Jesus showed us. Forgiveness is not just a commandment; it is something Jesus demonstrated. He did not retaliate when He was insulted or threatened revenge when He suffered. Instead, He left His case in the hands of God, who judges fairly.
This is a powerful lesson for us. We are called to forgive as the Lord forgave us, even when it is hard. Colossians 3 tells us to make allowances for each other's faults and forgive anyone who offends us. This is a powerful reminder that we are called to forgive as the Lord forgave us, even when it is hard. [41:08]
Colossians 3:12-13 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life you need to forgive. Can you ask God to help you begin to extend His love and forgiveness to them today?
Day 5: Jesus' Example on the Cross
Jesus' plea for forgiveness for His torturers while on the cross is the ultimate example of turning the other cheek. He chose not to repay evil for evil but instead asked God to forgive those who were hurting Him. This act of forgiveness shows that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes. This is a powerful reminder that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes.
This act of forgiveness shows that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes. This is a powerful reminder that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes. This is a powerful reminder that we are worth it to God and that our value is immense in His eyes. [46:21]
Luke 23:34 (ESV): "And Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.' And they cast lots to divide his garments."
Reflection: Reflect on Jesus' example of forgiveness on the cross. How can you embody this same spirit of forgiveness in your own life today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "There's this deep-rooted desire, not just to see justice done in our hearts, which is a noble thing, not just to see fairness distributed, but to settle scores. And I know this because of the never-ending radio ads and TV ads that we see. You guys seen this? If you've used Roundup on your lawn, you'd be entitled to financial compensation. Or maybe it's Facebook sharing too much of your information. You have a deep-rooted desire to settle scores." [26:15]
2. "Forgiveness is actually, the way that we love our brothers and sisters in Christ. It's the one of the ways that we show the world that we're different. Jesus said that people will know that we're his followers because of the way that we treat others and how we love others. And what better way to love others than forgive others?" [28:15]
3. "The beauty of offering the other cheek. Like I said. Isn't that we would just take it. The beauty is that we have a God who showed us what it actually looks like. I think about even the times where Jesus got angry. He reacted in a physical way. He said live peaceably when possible. Meaning sometimes living peaceably isn't possible. But that God created a way and commanded us to forgive and love in a way that's different than the rest of the world." [50:22]
4. "Forgiveness is in the nature of God. When God. Reveals himself to Moses. In Exodus chapter 34. Of all the things that he could have said about himself. Here's what God said to Moses. The Lord. The compassionate and gracious God. Slow to anger. Abounding in love and faithfulness. Maintaining love and devotion. To a thousand generations. Forgiving wickedness. Rebellion. And sin. It's in the heart of God. Forgiveness is." [41:33]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Forgiveness is actually, the way that we love our brothers and sisters in Christ. It's the one of the ways that we show the world that we're different. Jesus said that people will know that we're his followers because of the way that we treat others and how we love others. And what better way to love others than forgive others? You see, Paul said this in Colossians chapter three, he said, make allowances for each other's faults and forgive." [28:15]
2. "Out to the son. And when he gets there. He doesn't come with a list. He doesn't come with questions. He just embraces him. You see the father in this story represents God. Forgiveness is in the heart of God. And we're never more like God. Than when we forgive. Never in our life are we more like God. Than when we forgive people. The antithesis is to not repay evil for evil. But then Jesus gives examples. Of what that could look like. He gives three short illustrations." [43:59]
3. "Maybe you're saying okay. I'm still confused about what it means to turn the other cheek. Give me a straight answer. Give me a straight answer. Here's the answer that I would give. Is that Jesus hanging on the cross dying. While the crowd bears down on him. Spitting screaming at the king. And in those moments he could have chosen to do many things. Instead he chose to plead. For the forgiveness of his torturers. Father forgive them. They don't know what they're doing. Jesus in doing so. Turned his cheek. Not repaying evil for evil. Choosing to turn the cheek. Why? Because you're worth it to God. Your value and worth is so high to God." [45:48]
4. "Forgiveness though. We have to pause and talk about it. It's a verbal declaration. And it's a promise. That you recognize that you've been hurt and wronged. But that you're not going. To seek retaliation. I have students ask me this all the time. How do I forgive? What is forgiveness? It's a process. It's a verbal declaration. It's a promise. A recognition that we've been wronged. And a promise not to seek retaliation. That get back attitude." [41:08]
5. "Forgiveness is in the nature of God. When God. Reveals himself to Moses. In Exodus chapter 34. Of all the things that he could have said about himself. Here's what God said to Moses. The Lord. The compassionate and gracious God. Slow to anger. Abounding in love and faithfulness. Maintaining love and devotion. To a thousand generations. Forgiving wickedness. Rebellion. And sin. It's in the heart of God. Forgiveness is." [41:33]
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