Forgiveness Part 1 – Lesson Notes

Introduction:

• Welcome everyone and brief recap of our series on forgiveness.

• Remind everyone of the importance of forgiveness in our spiritual journey.

• Begin with a prayer asking God to open hearts and guide the message.

Main Scripture:

• Matthew 6:14-15 – “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

• Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

I. What Forgiveness Is (And What It Isn’t)

• Forgiveness is releasing the right to hold onto anger, resentment, or the desire for revenge.

• It is not forgetting the hurt, condoning the wrong, or allowing continued abuse.

II. The Weight of Unforgiveness

• Share the story of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35).

• Emphasize that holding onto bitterness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.

III. Why We Must Forgive

• We forgive because God first forgave us (Colossians 3:13).

• Unforgiveness is a barrier between us and God’s grace.

• Share a brief, personal story about the struggle of forgiveness.

IV. Steps to Begin Forgiving

• Acknowledge the hurt – be honest with yourself and with God.

• Pray for strength – forgiveness is not always easy, but God provides the strength.

• Release the offense – this doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt, but it means you are choosing not to let it control you.

V. Reflection and Altar Call

• Invite everyone to reflect on anyone they may need to forgive.

• Give a moment of silent prayer for personal forgiveness.

• Offer a brief altar call for anyone who needs to surrender their heart and ask for God's help to forgive.

Closing Prayer:

• Lead the congregation in a closing prayer of forgiveness, asking God to help them let go of pain, bitterness, and anger.

• Remind them of God’s promise to forgive as we forgive others.")