Feature sermon: Should we not forgive even without repentance?

TakeUptheCross Jul 2, 2017

The preacher is saying we are not expected to forgive if people do not repent. But is this true?

Later on he explains that the Lord does not forgive our sins, if we do not repent (that is true). And he quotes also: "Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother." (Matthew 18:15)

But then he explains how unforgiving spirit can kill you (and cause physical ailments). I agree with that. But I think we have to forgive even when people don't ask for forgiveness.

One thing that happened today: I spoke somewhat harsh with a little girl after church (because of the sake of discipline) but I did not do it the right way (and spirit), so I called her with the intention to apologize and even before I was able somehow to find my words, she said: "It's ok! I've forgiven you!" And that just struck me! Honestly! I think forgiveness is one of the greatest things on earth... when your sins, mistakes and falls are forgiven, forgotten - not because you deserve it - but because of grace, love. And our sins before God being forgiven because of Christ!

That's amazing!

TakeUptheCross Jul 2, 2017

And as an addition:

Is the verse in Matthew connected with what follows:

"Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 18:18)

And is that connected to : "Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." (John 20:23)

Are these verses at all connected?

sermonindex Jul 2, 2017

The preacher is saying we are not expected to forgive if people do not repent. But is this true?
Later on he explains that the Lord does not forgive our sins, if we do not repent (that is true). And he quotes also: "Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother." (Matthew 18:15)
But then he explains how unforgiving spirit can kill you (and cause physical ailments). I agree with that. But I think we have to forgive even when people don't ask for forgiveness.

Brother,

I agree with you full-heartily that we should always forgive all no matter if someone repents to us or not.

Secondly I do believe in the sermon he was trying to express that you do not need to reconcile or do restitution towards someone who has offended or hurt you. You can forgive someone but that does not mean you can have "fellowship" with them.

It does mean you do not seek revenge of any type. I believe this is what Chuck Smith was referring to.