The Ashland St. Pulpit
Must we Forgive?
por Ashland St. Baptist Church
"Must We Forgive?" - Matthew 18:21-35 Outline: The Necessity of Forgiveness:Universal Experience of Hurt Human Nature to Cause Pain Consequences of Hurt God’s Solution: Forgiveness:Learning to Forgive Peter’s Question (Matthew 18:21-22) God’s Infinite Mercy The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant:Astounding Debt:The Accounting (23) The Amount (24-25) The Acknowledgment (26-27)Ephesians 4:32, reinforces the need to forgive as God forgives. The Awful Decision:Bitterness Consequences Interaction with the Fellow Servant (28):Begs for Mercy (29): The fellow servant’s plea and the lack of compassion shown. Brutality in Response (30): the servant showed no forgiveness with his harsh treatment of the one who owed him. Reflection on God’s Patience: If God were as patient with us as we are with others, would we be forgiven? Forgiven to Forgive: Emphasize that as recipients of God’s forgiveness, we are obligated to extend that grace to others. Awareness of Deliverance:Understanding Forgiveness in Practice Testimony to the Lost Preached from the Pulpit of Ashland Street Baptist Church https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/
Key Themes: The Value of Salvation:Salvation is a free gift from God, contrasting with world religions that require payment. Emphasizes that choosing Jesus is not a sacrifice; it’s a gain—freedom from sin, shame, and death. Christian Life's Balance:Life as a Christian may have struggles but ultimately offers more than worldly living. References Proverbs 12:15 and Romans 3:26a to illustrate the hardships of sin versus the rewards of faith. Eternal Rewards: Ephesians 3:8-9 and Philippians 4:19 to emphasize God’s provision and the promise of eternal riches. Willingness to Work:The need for active participation in God’s work; righteousness is free, but rewards require effort. John 4:36 illustrates the joy in both sowing and reaping. Opportunities in the Vineyard:The vineyard owner continually seeks laborers, illustrating that it's never too late to join God’s work. Encourages us that God is always ready to offer second chances. Dealing with Injustice:The temptation to complain about perceived unfairness in God’s rewards Reminders of the goodness of God and the importance of His blessings. Conclusion: The message that God is fair and generous, offering us opportunities to serve and rewarding our efforts, should leave us with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. Preached from the Pulpit of Ashland Street Baptist Church https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/