Forgiveness – What is it and Why is it Important?

This is a homework sheet used in nouthetic counseling sessions. Because many spiritual problems have unforgiveness at their root, it helps to consider what the whole of Scripture has to say on the subject of forgiveness. Used with permission of the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC).

INTRODUCTION AND EXPLANATION:

Many interpersonal relationships are greatly affected by unbiblical, ungodly responses to offenses, hurts, resentments and accumulated grudges. An attitude of and a willingness to forgive is essential to maintaining proper relationships. Study the following verses carefully and list what they say about the meaning and importance of forgiveness; note also what certain verses indicate happens when you are not ready to forgive. Make this study personal by specifically stating how the truths in these verses apply to you in the way you deal with other people. Some of the passages may not include the word forgiveness, but they do deal with issues that are relevant to the subject.

Exodus 25:21, 22 Proverbs 16:32

Matthew 5:7 Matthew 5:23,24

Matthew 5:44, 45a, 48 Matthew 6:12

Matthew 6:14, 15 Matthew 18:21, 22

Matthew 18:34, 35 Mark 11:25, 26

Luke 6:37 John 13:34, 35

Romans 12:9, 10 Romans 13:10

Romans 14:10, 13 Galatians 5:15

Ephesians 4:1-3 Ephesians 4:32

Philippians 2:3 Colossians 3:12, 13

1 Thessalonians 5:15 Hebrews 12:14

James 4:11, 12 James 5:9

1 John 3:10, 11 1 John 3:14, 15

1 John 4:7, 8 1 John 4:20, 21