Matthew 18:21-35

1. I HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN BY GOD
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God...” Romans 3:23 (NIV)

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...” Romans 8:1 (NIV)

Whatever God has done for me, He expects me to do for other people.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

The first key to learning how to forgive people on a continual basis is just to realize how much God forgives me every day.

2. BECAUSE RESENTMENT MAKES ME MISERABLE
“Some people die in the prime of life, with everything going for them—fat and sassy. Others die bitter and bereft, never getting a taste of happiness.” Job 21:23-25 (The Message)

“To worry yourself to death with resentment would be a foolish, senseless thing to do.” Job 5:2 (Good News)

When we fail to forgive other people, God doesn’t have to lock us up in a jail. We do it to ourselves. How do I break out of that prison? There’s one key. It is the key of the forgiveness of Jesus Christ. I accept God’s forgiveness and I offer it to others.

3. FOR THE FUTURE I NEED MORE…FORGIVENESS
We cannot expect to receive what we are unwilling to give.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Matthew 5:7 (NIV)

“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” Matthew 18:35 (NIV)

• Forgiveness is to be continual and ongoing
• Enjoy it and I am to employ it
• Forgive and be freed