What Paul Taught Us about Forgiveness

Paul had quite the task, sorting out the affairs of the church and working his tail off to help them understand what was expected of them. He also, invariably, had to solve some of their disputes, and direct them towards a higher way of behaving, towards Christ's ideals for living as opposed to the structure and deadness of the Mosaic law. 

What were the people of Corinth commanded to do if any “have caused grief”?

They were told that if anyone has caused them grief that they need to forgive them.  They were also told to comfort them and give them encouragement lest their sins weigh them down and they “be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.” He also reminded them that holding grudges was a tool that Satan used to get an advantage over them. 

What blessings do we see if we forgive? What is the danger of failing to forgive?

If we forgive others, according to Matthew 6, God will forgive us also. There’s a reason we are supposed to forgive everyone and let God sort it out. He knows the intricacies of all our situations, which affords him the unique outlook necessary to truly judge us fairly. I’m so glad that my Heavenly Father, who is merciful and aware of my immaturity and inexperience, is the one who will do the judging. If I repent and change my behavior, or are working on it, I will be forgiven, as long as I forgive others and allow them the same mercy that I am hoping to receive myself. But I can’t expect to receive this mercy if I turn around and judge others. 

Matthew 6:15 says, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

 As long as we’re judgmental of others and fail to forgive them of their shortcomings, God will treat us the same. It’s really only fair, although it does make me think that it must be the one commandment we are expected to keep perfectly. If we have to always forgive others, then what happens if we fail to do so? None of our sins are forgiven? What if we repent of our lack of compassion? Then are we forgiven? Interesting thoughts. One thing is positive though. It’s pretty dang important to develop a forgiving attitude in our relationships with others.