1.1 Grace Defined: Unmerited Favor Grace is God's unmerited favor towards us, His love and mercy given to us not because we deserve it, but because He is a loving and merciful God. Ephesians 2:8-9
1.2 Grace Demonstrated: The Cross The ultimate demonstration of God's grace is the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, on the cross for our sins. Romans 5:8
2.1 God's Forgiveness: The Model God's forgiveness of our sins is the model for our forgiveness of others. We are called to forgive as we have been forgiven. Colossians 3:13
2.2 The Command to Forgive: Jesus commands us to forgive others, not seven times, but seventy-seven times, illustrating the limitless nature of God's forgiveness and the grace we should extend to others. Matthew 18:21-22
3.1 Forgiveness Breaks Chains: Forgiveness has the power to break chains of bitterness, resentment, and anger. It sets us free to experience God's love and peace. Ephesians 4:31-32
3.2 Forgiveness Reflects Christ: When we forgive others, we reflect the love and grace of Christ, demonstrating that we are His disciples. John 13:35
4.1 The Challenge of Forgiveness: Forgiveness can be challenging, especially when the hurt is deep. But with God's grace, we can forgive even the most painful offenses. Luke 17:4
4.2 The Freedom in Forgiveness: There is freedom in forgiveness. When we forgive, we release ourselves from the burden of bitterness and open ourselves to God's healing and restoration. Psalm 147:3
5.1 Daily Choosing Forgiveness: Living in the grace to forgive means daily choosing to forgive, just as God daily forgives us. Lamentations 3:22-23
5.2 The Grace to Forgive: A Gift The grace to forgive is a gift from God. As we receive His grace, we are empowered to extend grace to others. 2 Corinthians 12:9