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Forgiveness is one of the most quoted, most preached, and yet most difficult teachings of Jesus Christ. We know what He said about it. We read it. We quote it. But when it is our turn to forgive, we often hesitate, wrestle, or refuse. Why? Because forgiveness is hard.
In Matthew 6:14, Jesus states plainly: “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” A few verses earlier, as He teaches His disciples how to pray, He includes the well-known words: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12, ESV).
The message is clear: God ties our forgiveness to our willingness to forgive others.
This theme appears throughout the Scriptures. Yet, as fallen creatures, it remains one of the most difficult lessons to embrace. The questions we ask are not new: Whom must I forgive? How can I forgive someone who hurt me so deeply?
The Bible answers clearly. Romans 3:10–11 says, “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.” And yet, the hope of the Gospel is that forgiveness is offered to anyone who repents and trusts in Christ. This principle must shape how we live. If we have been forgiven much—and we have—then we are called to show that same grace to others.
Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, nor does it mean ignoring wisdom or putting ourselves in harm’s way. Christians have both the right and the obligation to protect themselves and their families. But we are never called to harbor hate. Jesus made that clear when He warned that hatred is no different than murder in the heart.
Scripture offers powerful examples of forgiveness. King David, guilty of both adultery and murder, found forgiveness through repentance. The Apostle Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, experienced radical transformation through God’s mercy. However, perhaps one of the most moving accounts is that of Joseph. Betrayed and sold into slavery by his own brothers, Joseph suffered years of injustice. But when given the chance for revenge, he instead forgave. His words in Genesis 50:20 remind us that God can use even evil for good.
Forgiveness is more than a virtue—it is a test of genuine Christianity. To forgive is to lay down pride, bitterness, and vengeance. It is to pick up the cross and follow Christ (Luke 9:23-24). Forgiveness showcases humility, peace, kindness, and love. It breaks the chains of anger and frees the soul from within.
Jesus never said forgiveness was optional. He commanded it. In doing so, He offered the path to healing—both for the one forgiven and for the one who forgives.
Ask yourself: Is there someone I need to forgive? Have I truly embraced Christ’s forgiveness? May we, as followers of Jesus, lead lives marked by mercy. The chains are broken; we have been set free.
