WE ARE TO FORGIVE OTHERS

PROCLAMATION

“But if any have caused grief … Sufficient to such a man is the punishment, which was inflicted of many … ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.”  2 Corinthians 2:5-7 (KJV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  In this second chapter Paul addresses the forgiveness of an offender.  He begins by telling them that stating that he would not come to them while he himself is sorrowful, so that he would not make anyone else sorrowful. (2 Corinthians 2:1-3)  He states that his previous letter was written when he was distressed and grieved, which he vented to them so that they would know how much he loved them. (2 Corinthians 2:4)  Then Paul told them that if a brother offends them, they should forgive him and comfort him.  They should also reaffirm their love for him. (2 Corinthians 2:5-8)  Rejecting him could cause him to be overwhelmed with sorrow.  They should show him love and restore him to the fellowship.  Then he says that anyone which they forgive, he would forgive also. (2 Corinthians 2:7-10)

 

APPLICATION

Forgiveness is very important in the life of a believer.  We are encouraged to forgive a brother who has caused us grief. (2 Corinthians 2:5-8)  We should also forgive a brother who has messed up in other ways. (Galatians 6:1)  Remember, we all have sinned in the past and were in need of forgiveness. (Romans 3:23)  Our Lord and Savior, Jesus The Christ, said that we are to forgive those who have done us wrong.  In fact, He said that we should not just forgive our brother once, but “seventy times seven” times. (Matthew 18:21-22)  He also said that if we do not forgive others, then our Heavenly Father will not forgive us of our sins. (Mark 11:26)  Having an unforgiving spirit is not Christ-like and we are to strive to be like Christ.