Deserved and undeserved forgiveness
Good morning brethren, I would like to write on a topic I have titled “Deserved and undeserved forgiveness.” In line with this topic, I would like us to understand forgiveness as the releasing of a debt - to let go, to cancel, and to send away. Scripture in Colossians 3:13 says, “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
The purpose of this teaching is to reassure many believers who may be wondering why they are being judged wrongly. We live in a world that often listens to noise and loudness. Unfortunately, those who are in the wrong are often the loudest and tend to draw attention to themselves. As believers, we must never be tempted to contend on the same ground with such people, because forgiveness is not the denial of wrongdoing; rather, it is a decision to release the offender from personal vengeance. By deserved forgiveness, I mean forgiveness that takes place when the offender acknowledges sin, repents, and seeks reconciliation. Scripture in Luke 17:3–4 says, “If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.” A biblical example is Zacchaeus in Luke 19:8–9. Zacchaeus confessed his wrongdoing and made restitution; therefore, Jesus declared that salvation had come to his house. However, there are occasions where a sinner is forgiven, yet the consequences remain. An example is King David. In 2 Samuel 12:13, after Prophet Nathan confronted him, David confessed, “I have sinned against the Lord.” God forgave David, but the consequences of his actions remained (v.14). It is therefore right to say that while forgiveness may help restore relationship and trust, it may not eliminate consequences. By undeserved forgiveness, I mean forgiveness that is given even when the offender does not repent—when no apology is offered, no remorse is shown, and injustice remains. Scripture in Romans 5:8 says, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” A powerful example is our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross in Luke 23:34, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” The crucifiers did not confess or repent, yet forgiveness was offered. This kind of forgiveness reflects God’s grace, not human fairness. Another example is Stephen in Acts 7:60, who, while being stoned unjustly, prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” For clarity, forgiveness is not excusing sin, not forgetting harm, not immediately restoring trust, and not avoiding justice.
Forgiveness releases revenge, not responsibility. Forgiveness is one-sided, but reconciliation is two-sided. Therefore, it is important to guard your heart (Proverbs 4:23) and to be wise as serpents (Matthew 10:16). God calls us to forgive personally while allowing Him to execute justice. In conclusion, some practical steps to forgiveness include: acknowledging the pain but choosing obedience over emotion, releasing the debt to God, and setting godly boundaries. Remember, deserved forgiveness restores relationships, while undeserved forgiveness reflects the cross. Service is by 10:30am, and worker’s meeting is by 10:00am. God’s blessings - Mike