AM Scripture Reading: Psalm 103.8-13

This Morning’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

“JUST AS GOD FORGAVE YOU”

Ephesians 4.32

Introduction:

1. We have been quoting Ephesians 4.32 for several weeks now: “And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

2. Not only does this emphasize that Christians are to forgive each other, but it also sets a precise guide for this forgiving spirit – “just as God in Christ forgave you” [kaqw\$ – kathōs: “according to” (Strong); “even as” (Vine)].

3. What does God’s perfect standard of forgiveness include?

I. GOD IS WILLING TO FORGIVE

1. No one could force God to grant forgiveness. Nothing demanded that He forgive, except He willed to forgive.
2. God is eager to forgive! (2 Pet. 3.9; 1 John 1.9)
3. The standard is set in the phrase, “just as God forgave” – so we must be willing to forgive others!

II. GOD FORGIVES ABSOLUTELY

1. There are no hidden clauses, no residue of fault, because God’s forgiveness is absolute! (Psa. 103.8-13)
2. Our forgiveness must absolutely absolve our brother; completely erase all charges against him! (1 Cor. 13.5 -niv)
3. “Just as God forgave” sets a high bar! (Col. 3.12-14)

III. GOD FORGIVES PERMANENTLY

1. Made possible Christ’s blood. (Heb. 9.11-14; 10.1-4)
2. It had been prophesied! (Jer. 31.33-34; Heb. 8.8-12; 10.16-17)
3. “Just as God forgave” demands we forever dismiss the charges made against a brother. (Matt. 6.141-5)

IV. GOD FORGIVES CONDITIONALLY

1. But even God’s expansive mercy does not argue against the conditions of forgiveness. [E.g., Noah, Israel, Nineveh, etc.]
2. Repentance comes before forgiveness.(2 Pet. 3.9; Acts 26.20)
3. “Just as God forgave” is never to be a model for ignoring sinful conduct and then calling it forgiveness. (Rom. 6.1-2)

Conclusion: Have you truly experienced God’s complete forgiveness?