If anyone in world history has changed the view of forgiveness, it is Jesus. The Bible is full of quotes from Jesus about forgiveness. He offers a very different perspective. The focus is not on ourselves but on the other and above all on God.
The statements of Jesus are often radical and take time to ponder over. They go deep and challenge you. What does Jesus say about forgiveness?
Quotes of Jesus about forgiveness:
- “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Matthew 6:14-15
2. “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus says, “but seventy times seven!
Matthew 18:21-22
3. “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Jesus at the cross
Luke 23:34
4. Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.
Part of the the Lord’s Prayer.
Matthew 6:12
5. “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.
Luke 6:37
6. “If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”
Luke 17:3-4
7. I will never again remember their sins and lawless deeds.” And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices.
Hebrews 10:17-18
8. When you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”
Mark 11:25
9. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God.
Romans 12:18-19
10. The Parable of the Two Debtors
Forgiveness
In addition to these quotes, Jesus also regularly tells stories to emphasize the importance of forgiveness. Also called parables. The stories are not based on true events but show the core of what Jesus stands for. Think of the story of the Prodigal Son who squandered his inheritance and came back crawling to his father. The ultimate example of forgiveness but also his brother’s struggle to accept that forgiveness.
Have you heard of this parable? Jesus tells a story about a man with a large debt of money. He is in danger of being sold into slavery, along with his family. He can’t possibly afford the money. The man begs the king for more time. The king takes pity and even forgives him the entire debt. But instead of being grateful, he makes sure that another man who owes him a little bit of money is thrown in jail. The king is furious! If your guilt is forgiven, then you must also forgive the other with all your heart. Matthew 18:23-35
Read the full story in the Bible here!
What do you think of Jesus’ sayings about forgiveness? Which one speaks to you and which one doesn’t? Let us know through the contact form and receive answer from our e-coaches!
