Are You Forgiven - Think Again

It is sin that separates man from God; and contrary to popular belief, Jesus Himself tells us His sacrifice does not cover all our sins.

But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

(Matthew 6:15)

We are told we will be forgiven only if and as we forgive others. The “Lord’s Prayer” even includes us asking God to do exactly that:

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

(Matthew 6:12)

And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

(Luke 11:4)

This means more than loving and forgiving slights from friends and loved ones. Jesus says:

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have you? do not even the publicans the same?

(Matthew 5:44-46)

 

For if you love them which love you, what thank have you? for sinners also love those that love them. And if you do good to them which do good to you, what thank have you? for sinners also do even the same. And if you lend of whom you hope to receive, what thank have you? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love you your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and the evil. Be you therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

(Luke 6:32-36)

          We know that as children of God we are hated by this world; and, that we are to return that hate with love and forgiveness. Even though this love is not a “touchy feely” love it is still not easy! How would you react to a bumper sticker that said, “Have you hugged a terrorist today?” We must have the help of the Spirit to exercise love for our enemies. This is one reason why:

For many are called, but few chosen.

(Matthew 22:14)