Theme: Jesus offered forgiveness from the heart to all, but only those who repent and believe are reconciled and obtain complete forgiveness. In vv. 32-38, Jesus offers forgiveness, but in vv. 39-43, we see that Jesus grants forgiveness. There is a difference between attitudinal and transactional forgiveness (from David Powlison). As we meditate on the forgiveness that Jesus offers, we see the necessity to have an inward attitude of forgiveness from our hearts to all, this is forgiveness. From Jesus's example of actually granting forgiveness, we see that we should seek to have outward transactional forgiveness toward all, this is reconciliation. We need to recognize how essential repentance is for reconciliation, and beware of peace at all costs. It is important to understand that forgiveness can be given even when reconciliation is not possible. We are called to be like Jesus - to forgive as we have been forgiven. But it is also important to see forgiveness not as the end but as a part of the end, which is reconciliation. Let us be people who humbly seek the Lord's grace and forgiveness and seek to forgive others from the heart. Not only in attitude but also in restoring relationships with full reconciliation. Remember, if possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
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Michael Shafran is our Senior Pastor. He graduated with his Master of Divinity from Capital Bible Seminary and earned his Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before coming to Mount Moriah, he served as a pastor in Baltimore,...
