Jesus revealed an incredible key to freedom with a simple statement: “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained” (John 20:23). What was He communicating?
He said two huge things here. Firstly, if you forgive others it releases or extends God’s grace of forgiveness; to the other party and to you as well. Both, you and the other person are blessed. It releases God’s double blessing! In the same manner by retaining or holding back forgiveness has the effect of holding onto sin. In effect you hold back the hand of God from releasing the grace of forgiveness—from the other person and yourself as well! You release a double curse: upon the other person and yourself.
RELEVANCE
Peter brought up the issue of forgiveness to Jesus. He asked how many times he should forgive one who sinned against him—seven? Jesus answered with a profound statement: “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22). In other words, don’t even bother counting—just keep forgiving!
Why? Forgiveness is a heart issue. Continuing to forgive softens your own heart, allowing God to be the healer; your healer. Unforgiveness keeps a grudge. It harbors or retains vengeance in the heart. Vengeance retains a murderous spirit deep within the heart that in reality holds you in bondage.
God offers us freedom from such bondage. That’s why He says “Vengeance is Mine” (Deuteronomy 32:35). Forgiveness takes our hands off the matter, sets us free from bitterness and guilt, and releases the burden onto Christ’s shoulders. Out of love He freely accepted the responsibility. In turn He is the only One who can truly execute righteous judgment. It’s His job. He handles it best.
Think it hard to forgive? Look to Jesus. He has forgiven you for more sins than you can ever count! “And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross” (Colossians 2:13-14).
REFLECT AND RELATE
Can you receive Christ’s TOTAL forgiveness? Can you allow Him to represent your case before the one who has offended you or sinned against you? Ask Him if the burden is too difficult for Him. It certainly is for you.
REFERENCES
Psalm 94:1-19; Isaiah 35:3-4; 59:14-20; Romans 12:17-21