Forgiveness, part 2: How Does God Forgive?

Sermon podcast from January 27, 2019

We've all experienced times when we've apologized to someone and they expressed forgiveness, only to realize that the person is holding on to a long-term grudge. That's not real forgiveness.

It's hard to let go once we've been hurt; the memory sticks. God knows everything. How can he forgive? God defines forgiveness, so to understand how we must forgive, we must understand how God forgives.

So what are we talking about when we talk about the forgiveness of God?

There are two important biblical images to examine: the altar and the cross.

God's forgiveness is by grace.

Forgiveness, part 1: Forgiven for what?

(listen to the podcast version from January 20, 2019)

Simon the Pharisee was a poor host. He invited Jesus to dinner, but he showed no care for him. To make matters worse, a woman invaded the meal and poured out her tears and expensive oil on Jesus' feet, expressing her love intimately to Jesus. Simon was appalled, and Jesus answered with a parable: