Forgiveness is central to Jesus' mission, emphasizing that it is not just an act of receiving or giving but a way of life. The Lord's Prayer encapsulates this idea, asking for forgiveness in the same breath as offering it to others. This concept highlights that forgiveness involves processing feelings towards those who have wronged us, maintaining a heart posture of forgiveness regardless of any potential reconciliation. It does not require forgetting or condoning the wrongdoing but rather acknowledges the hurt while choosing to adopt a forgiving attitude. This understanding positions forgiveness as a vital practice in daily life and spiritual discipline.
Sermon on the Mount E23 – The second half of the Lord’s prayer contains four requests on behalf of the person praying. The second personal request is for God to forgive us. But forgiveness is not just a transaction between individuals or between God and humans. Forgiveness plays a central role in the arrival of God’s Kingdom. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle explore what forgiveness is, what it isn't, and what it looks like to set each other free.
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Timestamps
- Chapter 1: A Conversation on Release, Repair, and Delivery from Sin (00:00-28:19)
- Chapter 2: Forgiveness in the Life and Teachings of Jesus (28:19-36:54)
- Chapter 3: Is There a Limit on Forgiveness? (36:54-01:05:38)
Referenced Resources
- New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology in Exegesis, Moisés Silva
- Check out Tim’s library here.
- You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS.
Show Music
- Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen
- BibleProject theme song by TENTS
Show Credits
Jon Collins is the creative producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject Scholar Team.
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