WE ARE TO FORGIVE AND COMFORT OTHERS

PROCLAMATION

“If anyone has caused grief … not to put it too severely … you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.”  2 Corinthians 2:5-7 (NIV)

 

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 chapter Paul addresses the forgiveness of an offender.  He 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 2:8)  Rejecting him could cause him to be overwhelmed.  They should show him love and restore him to the fellowship.

 

APPLICATION

Forgiveness is very important in the life of a believer.  We are encouraged to forgive a brother who has caused us grief.  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 forgive our brother “seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)  He also said that if we do not forgive others, then we will not be forgiven of our sins. (Mark 11:26)  Having an unforgiving spirit is not Christ-like.