Embracing Unfair Grace: The Power of Forgiveness
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound words of Jesus from the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," as recorded in Luke 23. This statement, uttered amidst excruciating pain, highlights the depth of Jesus' love and forgiveness. It fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53, which speaks of the Messiah making intercession for transgressors. Jesus' prayer for forgiveness, even for those who were crucifying Him, underscores His divinity and His commitment to practicing what He preached about forgiveness throughout His ministry.
We examined several passages where Jesus taught about forgiveness, such as in the Sermon on the Mount, where He instructed to love and pray for enemies, and in His response to Peter about forgiving not just seven times, but seventy-seven times. These teachings emphasize that forgiveness is not about keeping count but about embodying a spirit of continual forgiveness. Jesus exemplified this by praying for those who persecuted Him, demonstrating that forgiveness is a divine act that often requires divine assistance.
Forgiveness is not fair, and thank God for that. It is an act of grace that we are called to extend to others, just as God has extended it to us. This unfairness is beautifully captured in the lyrics of a song by Reliant K, "The beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair." While forgiveness is a command, reconciliation is not, and it is important to set healthy boundaries while still offering forgiveness.
We acknowledged the difficulty of forgiveness, especially in situations of deep hurt and betrayal. Forgiveness is a process that begins at the cross, where we find the strength and grace to forgive others. It is a journey that may require daily commitment and reliance on God. We encouraged everyone to lay down their burdens of unforgiveness at the cross, recognizing that while the process may be long and challenging, it is essential for healing and spiritual growth.
Key Takeaways:
- The Depth of Jesus' Forgiveness: Jesus' words from the cross, "Father, forgive them," highlight the profound depth of His forgiveness, even in the face of immense suffering. This act fulfills Old Testament prophecy and underscores His divinity, showing that true forgiveness often requires divine strength. [19:30]
- Forgiveness as a Divine Command: Jesus taught that forgiveness should be limitless, as seen in His response to Peter about forgiving seventy-seven times. This teaching challenges us to embody a spirit of continual forgiveness, recognizing that it is not about keeping count but about reflecting God's grace. [24:32]
- Forgiveness is Not Fair: Forgiveness is an act of grace that defies fairness, as it involves giving others what God has given us. This unfairness is a reflection of God's grace, which we are called to extend to others, even when it feels undeserved. [28:58]
- The Process of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a journey that begins at the cross and may require daily commitment. It is a process that involves laying down burdens of unforgiveness and relying on God's strength to extend grace to others. [32:39]
- Boundaries and Forgiveness: While forgiveness is a command, reconciliation is not. It is important to set healthy boundaries to protect oneself while still offering forgiveness. Boundaries should not become walls that prevent healing and growth. [35:38]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Summer Camp Announcement
- [02:00] - Introduction to Words from the Cross
- [03:45] - The Pain of Jesus' Words
- [05:20] - "Father, Forgive Them"
- [07:00] - Fulfillment of Prophecy
- [09:15] - Jesus Practices What He Preaches
- [12:00] - Teachings on Forgiveness
- [15:30] - Forgiveness is Not Fair
- [18:45] - The Process of Forgiveness
- [21:00] - Boundaries and Forgiveness
- [23:30] - Personal Story on Forgiveness
- [26:00] - Conclusion and Call to Action
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Luke 23:33-34
- Isaiah 53:12
- Matthew 5:43-44
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Observation Questions:
1. In Luke 23:33-34, what were the circumstances surrounding Jesus' statement, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do"? How does this context enhance the understanding of His words? [03:45]
2. How does Isaiah 53:12 describe the role of the Messiah in relation to transgressors, and how is this prophecy fulfilled in Jesus' actions on the cross? [09:15]
3. According to Matthew 5:43-44, what does Jesus teach about how we should treat our enemies, and how does this relate to His actions on the cross? [12:00]
4. What examples from the sermon illustrate Jesus practicing what He preached about forgiveness? [12:00]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Jesus' prayer for forgiveness on the cross demonstrate His divinity and commitment to His teachings on forgiveness? [09:15]
2. What does the sermon suggest about the nature of forgiveness as a divine command, and how does this challenge common human perspectives on fairness? [28:58]
3. How does the concept of forgiveness as a process, beginning at the cross, provide a framework for dealing with personal grievances and hurts? [43:23]
4. In what ways does the sermon highlight the importance of setting boundaries while still offering forgiveness, and how can this be practically applied in relationships? [35:38]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you found it difficult to forgive someone. How might Jesus' example on the cross inspire you to approach forgiveness differently in that situation? [09:15]
2. Consider the idea that forgiveness is not about keeping count but embodying a spirit of continual forgiveness. How can you cultivate this mindset in your daily interactions? [24:32]
3. The sermon mentions that forgiveness is not fair and is an act of grace. How can you extend grace to someone in your life who may not "deserve" it, and what steps can you take to begin this process? [28:58]
4. Identify a relationship in your life where setting healthy boundaries is necessary. How can you balance forgiveness with maintaining these boundaries to protect yourself? [35:38]
5. The sermon suggests that forgiveness is a journey that may require daily commitment. What practical steps can you take to make forgiveness a regular part of your spiritual practice? [32:39]
6. Reflect on the statement, "Forgiveness is giving others what God gave us." How can this perspective change the way you view forgiveness in your own life? [28:58]
7. Think of a person or situation where you are holding onto unforgiveness. What is one action you can take this week to begin the process of letting go and finding healing? [43:23]
Devotional
Day 1: The Depth of Divine Forgiveness
Jesus' words from the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," reveal the profound depth of His forgiveness, even amidst immense suffering. This act fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53, which speaks of the Messiah making intercession for transgressors. Jesus' prayer for forgiveness, even for those who were crucifying Him, underscores His divinity and His commitment to practicing what He preached about forgiveness throughout His ministry. His example challenges us to seek divine strength to forgive others, recognizing that true forgiveness often requires a power beyond our own. [19:30]
Isaiah 53:12 (ESV): "Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you have been deeply hurt. How can you seek God's strength to begin the process of forgiveness today?
Day 2: Limitless Forgiveness as a Divine Command
Jesus taught that forgiveness should be limitless, as seen in His response to Peter about forgiving seventy-seven times. This teaching challenges us to embody a spirit of continual forgiveness, recognizing that it is not about keeping count but about reflecting God's grace. By forgiving others repeatedly, we mirror the boundless grace that God extends to us. This divine command calls us to rise above our natural inclinations and embrace a lifestyle of forgiveness that reflects the heart of God. [24:32]
Matthew 18:21-22 (ESV): "Then Peter came up and said to him, 'Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?' Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"
Reflection: Is there someone you have been keeping count of their wrongs? How can you begin to let go of this tally and embrace a spirit of continual forgiveness?
Day 3: The Unfairness of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is an act of grace that defies fairness, as it involves giving others what God has given us. This unfairness is a reflection of God's grace, which we are called to extend to others, even when it feels undeserved. The beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair, allowing us to experience and share the transformative power of forgiveness. Embracing this perspective helps us to see forgiveness not as a burden, but as a liberating act that aligns us with God's heart. [28:58]
Psalm 103:10-12 (ESV): "He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you received undeserved grace. How can you extend that same grace to someone else today?
Day 4: The Journey of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a journey that begins at the cross and may require daily commitment. It is a process that involves laying down burdens of unforgiveness and relying on God's strength to extend grace to others. This journey is often challenging, requiring us to confront our pain and choose forgiveness repeatedly. However, it is through this process that we find healing and spiritual growth, as we align ourselves with the forgiving nature of Christ. [32:39]
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: What is one step you can take today to move forward in your journey of forgiveness, even if it feels difficult?
Day 5: Boundaries and Forgiveness
While forgiveness is a command, reconciliation is not. It is important to set healthy boundaries to protect oneself while still offering forgiveness. Boundaries should not become walls that prevent healing and growth, but rather serve as guidelines that allow us to forgive without compromising our well-being. By establishing these boundaries, we can offer forgiveness freely, while also ensuring that we maintain healthy relationships and personal integrity. [35:38]
Proverbs 4:23 (ESV): "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."
Reflection: Are there boundaries you need to establish in a relationship where forgiveness is needed? How can these boundaries help you to forgive while maintaining your well-being?
Quotes
"Good morning. I'm excited to be here as we continue on in this series of words from the cross. We're looking at exactly that. The words of Jesus from the cross as we're leading up to this time of Easter. And I want to repeat something that John said last week that I think is so important as we look at these different statements from Jesus. It's the fact that he is in excruciating pain. And it takes even more pain in order to take a breath. It takes even more pain in order to say anything. And so, every single thing that Jesus says has to be worth that extra pain in order for him to say it. And so, I think that's a beautiful setup that we understand that, man, it took extra pain in order to say these things. As we look at the words we're looking at this morning, which is this. Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. It was worth it. It was worth that extra pain to say, Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. And so, I want to look at this in the context of the verse. So, we're going to be looking in Luke 23 this morning. And in verse 33, it says this. And when they came to the place that is called the skull, there they crucified him. And the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. And they cast lots to divide his garments. Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. So, I want to, real quick, this morning, he's kind of set the scene as to what's kind of going on right as he's saying this." [00:13:40] (101 seconds)
"And in the midst of all of that, he decides to say, Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. And so I think that is such a beautiful thing for us to focus on this morning. And I want to see really some cool things from this passage. One is that this moment of Jesus praying for these people is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. This is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. So I want to look at this prophecy real quick. It's found in Isaiah 53. And Isaiah 53 is known as the suffering servant. It is a prophecy about the coming Messiah who would have to suffer for the sake of our sins. So looking in Isaiah 53, 12, it says this. Therefore, I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong. Because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors. He was numbered with the transgressors. He is put with the criminals as though he has died." [00:17:06] (60 seconds)
"And so the people who are in front of him are saying, hey, if you are actually who you say you are, you'll come down from this cross. You'll show us that you actually are who you say you are. And he said, no, no, no, I'm going to pray for you. And that's how you're going to know I am who I say I am, that I truly am the son of God as I am fulfilling the things that were written about him hundreds of years prior to this event." [00:17:55] (27 seconds)
"And so I think it's so cool that we look at this passage and yes, we were going to talk about forgiveness this morning, but another huge thing is that this points to the divinity of Christ. This shows that Jesus is who he said he is." [00:18:10] (14 seconds)
"But the next point that I want us to pull from this is that Jesus practices what he preaches. Like he really practices what he preaches. And so all throughout his ministry, Jesus is constantly preaching about forgiveness. And so we're not going to be able to look at every single instance where Jesus talks about forgiveness, but I do want to highlight a couple of them. So the first one we're going to look at is Matthew 5 .43." [00:18:30] (24 seconds)
"And this is taking place, Matthew 5 through 7 is taking place in the Sermon on the Mount. So this is part of the Sermon on the Mount. 5 .43, it says this, you have heard that it was said, you shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." [00:18:54] (19 seconds)
"He is living out what he is preaching right here. Like he's preaching this and then he really lives this out. He is praying for people who are actively persecuting him. And this is the epitome of persecution that we could possibly get to is that he is being actively crucified. And yet in the midst of that, he says, I'm going to pray for them. Father, forgive them. They know not what they do." [00:19:17] (25 seconds)
"And so what we understand is that it's really just meant to convey a really large number that you're not supposed to keep track of. It's not something that you're supposed to be like, okay, well, I'll forgive you twice. You got five more and then you're out. I can't, I'm not going to deal with it anymore. He said, hey, no, no, no, it's 77, 70 times seven. It's a lot. I remember the very first time I ever heard a pastor preach on this. And I was probably like seven. All right. So this, this stuck with me and you'll find out why." [00:20:07] (32 seconds)
"The pastor who was preaching this day, he used the translation that said seven times 70. And so he was like, you know, that's 490 times that you're called to forgive someone. And he probably from that moment on went on to explain that that's not really supposed to be an actual number, but I didn't hear any of that. All right. I was so fixated on 490 times that I can hit my brother and he has to forgive me. Like I was seven. I'm not walking away with deep." [00:20:40] (32 seconds)
"So Jesus said, hey, you need to have a spirit of forgiveness. We need to be constantly forgiving people. It's not the one or two times. This is the forgiveness that you're supposed to be giving. And Jesus lived that out. He continued. I mean, people were actively crucifying him when he's praying on their behalf." [00:23:09] (21 seconds)
"And I think that's something we have to understand is that forgiveness, we are going to need God. We are going to need God in order to be able to walk through forgiveness of others. Because it's a hard thing. It's a very difficult thing. But it's a good thing. And it's a beautiful thing. And so I want to take a moment. I want to go back to that scene that we set at the very beginning of this message of what all was happening to Jesus. And so we see that two criminals mocked Jesus. And then Jesus prayed, Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. And then one of the criminals was in paradise with Jesus." [00:25:10] (38 seconds)
"The next thing that we're going to see is the soldiers beat Jesus and gambled for his clothes. And he prayed, Father, forgive them. They know not what they do. And then what we see is that one of the Roman centurions came to proclaim that he was truly the son of God that very day." [00:25:48] (16 seconds)
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