Word@Work from BeaconLight Monday, September 1, 2014 FORGIVING THE SINNER Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times? Jesus answered, I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. (NIVUK) You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages Peters question probably came in response to Jesus teaching about restoring repentant sinners to fellowship with God and others (Matthew 18:15-19). Jesus had advocated honest but loving confrontation of sinful behaviour, encouraging repentance and leading to reconciliation. Peter got the message but asked what should be done with persistent offenders. The rabbis of his day taught that forgiveness should be offered on three occasions. Peter sensed that Jesus might be more generous and asked if the limit of three offences might be extended to seven times (seven was considered to be the number of perfection or completeness). The Lord multiplied that number by itself. He was saying that there is no limit to forgiveness in Gods economy: no limit to the times that repentance must be met with love and reconciliation. Peters question seems to presume that he would always be right and it would always be the fault of others which would be the problem! He would soon learn that Jesus was willing to forgive his denial. Gods love is very generous indeed. Without that, there would be no gospel of grace. Yet it is surprising how many people cower in their sins and try to hide from God, even though He longs for them to rejoice in His forgiveness. God is not vengeful towards people who are repentant. He keeps on loving them, drawing them back into relationship with Himself. The church needs to learn to do the same. Repentance must always be met by forgiveness and reconciliation. Of course there would be plenty of sinners who do not believe they are in the wrong: they cannot enjoy the grace of forgiveness. But those who are truly sorry for their sins need to know that Father God wants to restore them; and the church must also. Prayer: Gracious God. Thank You for the wideness of Your mercy and the fullness of Your love towards sinful people like me. I am sorry when I have cowered under the weight of my own sin, not seeking or receiving Your forgiveness. And I am sorry when I have not forgiven those who have sinned against me, or been willing to restore those who are repentant. Help me to be quick in repentance over my own sins, and quick to forgive others as You forgive me. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Posted on: Mon, 01 Sep 2014 07:24:52 +0000
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