This study was taught at our Sunday evening service by Sim Forder, one of our pastors, on the 17th January 2021. You can listen to the audio on this web page or save it for later listening.

In this study we considered what God’s Word, the Bible, says as to our need not simply for forgiveness, but to show forgiveness.

There are some things that we should be known for as Christians. Whether that be our belief in God, our practical love toward others, or our moral convictions. And of course, we should show the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

But are we known for these things? If we asked our non-Christian friends to describe what they would expect a Christian to be like, or what a Christian would be known for, what would they say? And would forgiveness be on their list? 

Deeper still, what are you known for? Are you someone who can forgive, or someone who is known for their long list of grudges? “Well, I’m not like that person” you might say. Good, but that other person should not be the standard you’re to be aiming to beat. Rather, it is Christ’s example that you should be aiming to meet.

When we think of how God has forgiven you and I; we are reminded how central forgiveness is to what we believe.

To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.

CS Lewis