True Comfort When Forgiveness Isn't Biblical: The Tragic Cost of Ignoring Repentance with Chris Brauns & Matt Ferguson.
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Jan 2, 2026 In this enlightening conversation, Chris Brauns, a seasoned pastor and author of Unpacking Forgiveness, and Matt Ferguson, lead pastor and forgiveness theologian, challenge the notion of unconditional forgiveness. They clarify the stark contrast between 'Therapeutic Forgiveness' and true 'Biblical Forgiveness,' emphasizing the need for repentance. With profound insights, they highlight how demanding accountability can be a loving act, and explore how Jesus’ teachings align with this perspective. This discussion is a must-listen for anyone grappling with forgiveness.
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Two Competing Definitions of Forgiveness
- The dominant cultural view treats forgiveness as a private strategy to stop feeling bitter.
- The biblical/gospel-shaped view makes forgiveness a two-party action tied to repentance and restoration.
Forgive As God Forgives
- We forgive others as God forgives us, and God's forgiveness follows repentance.
- If God forgave the unrepentant yet they still faced judgment, forgiveness would be emptied of its meaning.
What Jesus Modeled On The Cross
- Jesus' prayer on the cross wasn't an unconditional declaration that all present were forgiven.
- He pleaded for their repentance, modeling intercession rather than automatic pardon.
