Cartoonology. There is great theology in cartoons and comics.
Forgiveness is God's specialty. Jesus prayed forgiveness from the cross,.
Luke 23:34 (NKJV)
34 Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." And they divided His garments and cast lots.
God promises forgiveness.
1 John 1:9 (NKJV)
9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
God also warns us about an unforgiving attitude. Do you remember that part of the Lord's Prayer?
Matthew 6:12-15 (NKJV)
12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
14 "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
The Lord's Prayer can be a dangerous one to pray, especially the part about asking God to forgive us the same way we forgive each other. What would happen to you if God forgave you the same way you forgive others? I am afraid some of us would be in big trouble. I suppose there are times when it is good God doesn't answer prayer.
Did you notice that Jesus asked His Father in heaven to forgive those who were crucifying Him even as he was dying? Of course, that included you and me since it was our sin that nailed Him to the cross. Does that mean everyone is already forgiven? No, but it does mean that forgiveness is offered to all who will receive it through faith, repentance and confession of sin.
You can forgive anyone at any time whether or not they are sorry for their sin or whether or not they ask for forgiveness. It will release and liberate you even if it does them no good. Forgiveness is one of those things a person has to appropriate in order for it to accomplish its intended purpose. One certain thing our texts teach me today is that there can be no forgiveness for me unless I forgive others. 02-03-09
www.nlcbchurch.com
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Posted By Larry Ross to Larry's Notes at 2/03/2009 08:35:00 AM
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