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Word & Deed: We are Witnesses: Forgiveness, Part I
with Travis Aicklen

Scripture: Matthew 6:9-15, Colossians 3:12-13, Romans 12, 2 Corinthians 5:19, Isaiah, Ephesians 4:31-32, Mark 11:25-26, Ephesians 4:26-27
Intro: Jesus, in teaching the Lord's Prayer, emphasizes one key action: forgiveness. This sermon explores the misconceptions and realities of forgiveness, highlighting its importance in our lives and witness.
Key Points:

• One Job: In the Lord's Prayer, forgiveness is the primary action Jesus calls us to. We are to pardon and release those who don't deserve it.
• Misconceptions of Forgiveness:
  • It's not approving of the offense.
  • It's not excusing the offense.
  • It's not automatic reconciliation.
  • It's not denying the offense.
  • It's not forgetting the offense.
  • It's not neglecting justice.
• Realities of Forgiveness:
  • It's a release.
  • It's stopping keeping score.
  • It's refusing to punish.
  • It's being merciful.
  • It's from the heart.
  • It's an absence of bitterness.
  • It's an ongoing process.
• The Spite House: Holding onto unforgiveness traps us in a small, confined space, hindering our freedom and witness.
• The Cross: Jesus' sacrifice demonstrates the ultimate act of forgiveness, tearing down dividing walls.

Conclusion:

• Forgiveness is a mandate, not an option, for Christians.
• Bitterness is the alternative to forgiveness.
• Forgiveness is a release, not a recoding.
• We must rehearse forgiveness as much as we rehearse the story of the hurt.

Call to Action:

• Reflect on areas of unforgiveness in your life.
• Practice releasing those who have hurt you.
• Choose to stop keeping score.
• Rehearse forgiveness.
• Receive communion as a reminder of Christ’s forgiveness.
• Participate in the forgiveness prayer offered.

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