Understanding 'FORGIVENESS'

Mark Twain once said, "Forgiveness is the  fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it."

Many in our world today do not understand the subject of forgiveness properly, since they fail to see what God says in His Word about it.

Some have the idea that if we only pray to God concerning sin, no matter what the circumstances, God automatically and immediately forgives.

Some have the understanding that we should forgive others even if they refuse to admit guilt, show remorse or any signs of repentance. What are we to make of this confusing subject?

Let's first define this word in the way the Bible  defines it, which it does in the use of five different terms:

1)It uses a financial term called "remission" (Matthew 26:28). Concerning sin, man is indebted to God (Matthew 6:12).

But when it comes to forgiveness, the blood of Jesus Christ remits the guilt of past sins and forwards a zero balance.

I like the very thought of that, don't you?

2) It uses a judicial term called "justification" (Romans 3:24-26). When it comes to sin, man simply stands  guilty (James 2:10).

But when it comes to forgiveness, the blood of Jesus removes our guilt and releases us from the penalty of sin.

3) It uses a ceremonial term called "purification"  (Titus 2:14). Concerning sin, our souls are defiled (Jeremiah 2:23).

But when it comes to forgiveness, the blood of Jesus cleanses us from the filth of iniquity.
(1 John 1:7; Isaiah 1:18).

4) It uses a geographic term called "sanctification" (Hebrews 10:29). Concerning sin, we stand in the realm of the world and all who are friends to it (James 4:4).

But when it comes to forgiveness, the blood of Jesus cuts us loose and 'sets us apart' for holy service in His church (Romans 12:1-2).

5) It uses a social term called "reconciliation" (Romans 5:10). Concerning sin, we are separated  from God (Isaiah 59:1-2).

But when it comes to forgiveness, the  blood of Jesus satisfies the justice of God and allows us to draw near to Him in sweet fellowship (Hebrews 8:10; James 4:8).

Now, there is actually a great deal of difference in demonstrating a forgiving spirit and in gaining forgiveness, because forgiveness is a two-way street.

Let's distinguish the two. The Bible tells us that we must be people who are willing to forgive at the deepest level. Look these passages up for yourself and see; (Matthew 5:44-45; 6:14-15; Mark 11:25; Ephesians 4:32; Matthew 18:21-35).

This was the demonstration by example of Christ Himself on Calvary in Luke 23:34:
"Father, forgive  them; for they know not what they do."

Even with this in mind, unless the perpetrator recognizes fault and expresses proper remorse, he cannot gain forgiveness from God.

Since  we have offended God by our sins, we must somehow obtain His forgiveness based only on His terms.

The Bible is filled with passages that inform us of the need of developing a broken and contrite spirit (Psalms 34:18; 51:17).
This is 'KEY'.

The New Testament states this clearly for the child of God:

"If  we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9).

Peter told those who crucified the Lord, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in  the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins." (Acts 2:38) for this reason, while Jesus demonstrated a forgiving spirit, they still needed to take proper steps of recognition of sin and remorse for what they did.

With both of these, they were then able to obtain forgiveness from God, and this serves as a wonderful pattern for us in forgiving others as well.

"Forgive, and you will be forgiven." Forgive only in part, and complete forgiveness from God is not available. I want, I need, complete forgiveness in order to make it to Glory to be with HIM! God Bless...