Forgiveness as the Foundation of Faith: How Yeshua Teaches Us to Forgive
Dear Brothers and Sisters, today we will discuss an important and profound topic—Yeshua’s teaching on forgiveness. Forgiveness is not merely an act of mercy; it is the foundation of our faith and our relationship with God and one another. Let us turn to the Holy Scriptures to better understand what Yeshua tells us about forgiveness.
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 6, verses 14-15, Yeshua says: “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” These words underscore the importance of forgiveness in our lives. Forgiveness is not simply a virtue; it is a commandment given to us by God Himself.
In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 6, verses 37-38, Yeshua teaches us: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you.” Here we see that forgiveness is closely linked with mercy and generosity. By forgiving others, we ourselves receive forgiveness and blessing from God.
One of the most vivid examples of Yeshua’s teaching on forgiveness is the parable of the prodigal son, described in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 15, verses 11-32. In this parable, a father forgives his son, who has squandered his inheritance and returned home in poverty. The father not only forgives him but rejoices at his return, hosting a feast. This parable shows us that God is always ready to forgive us, regardless of our sins, if we sincerely repent and return to Him.
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 21-35, Yeshua tells the parable of the unforgiving debtor. In this story, a king forgives a massive debt owed by his servant, but that servant refuses to forgive a small debt owed to him by a fellow servant. Upon learning of this, the king becomes angry and hands the servant over to be imprisoned. This parable teaches us that we must forgive others just as God forgives us. Forgiveness is not only an act of mercy; it is also an act of justice and righteousness.
Forgiveness is not merely words; it is an action that requires humility and love. In the Gospel of John, chapter 13, verses 34-35, Yeshua says: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Love and forgiveness are the two wings on which we can ascend to God.
Dear brothers and sisters, let us remember that forgiveness is not only a gift we receive from God; it is also a gift we must give to others. By forgiving others, we free ourselves from resentment and anger; we open our hearts to love and mercy. Let us follow Yeshua’s teaching and forgive as He forgives us.