Avoiding the Tormentors

Forgiveness is unfathomable because it is not normal or natural or easy. Forgiveness is divine. 

The King’s Willingness to Forgive

• God
  • Holy and Righteous
  • Willing to forgive
  • Makes forgiveness possible
  • Pays the price of forgiveness
  • Forgives those who accept the payment
• Us
  • We fall short
  • We are sinners
  • We are indebted
  • Penalty is death
• How big is this debt?
  • Annual taxed revenue by the Roman government of Idumea, Judea, Samaria, and Galilee – 900 talents
  • Talent – the largest unit of weight measurement used by the Hebrews
  • Ten thousand – the highest rounded number
• But…
  • Romans 6:23
  • 1 Timothy 1:15-16
• Two Kinds of Forgiveness
  • Eternal forgiveness
  • Daily cleansing
• Principle
  • Ephesians 4:32
  • Colossians 3:13

The Servant’s Unwillingness to Forgive

• “Forgiveness reflects the highest human virtue, because it so clearly reflects the character of God.” – John MacArthur
• God
  • Forgiving
  • Willing
  • Available
• Us
  • Huge debt
  • Jesus paid our debt
  • Must accept payment
  • Once forgiven – be willing to forgive
• Goal of Christlikeness
  • Forgiveness emulates the Father
  • Forgiving exercises God’s love and forgiveness
  • Forgiveness is God-like

Forgiveness

• Breaks down barriers
• Promotes unity
• Restores relationships
• Provides peace
• Releases hurt, anxiety, and bitterness

The Tormentors