If you have been around church at all, you have probably heard the terms “Grace” and “Forgiveness”. Grace and forgiveness are at the very heart of what Christians believe. Christians believe these two are gifts from God that reveal His character and His love for us. Understanding grace and why we are called to forgive can transform our lives and our relationships with others.
Grace: A Divine Gift
The definition of grace is simply an unmerited favor. It is God’s love in action toward people who don’t deserve it. The Bible teaches us that grace is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” This passage reminds us that our salvation is not something we can earn or deserve. It is given freely out of God’s love. We cannot do anything to earn it or lose it.
One of the most powerful examples of grace in the Bible is the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). In this parable, a young man demands his inheritance early, squanders it all, and returns home in shame. Expecting punishment, he instead finds his father running to him, embracing him, and celebrating his return with a feast. This story beautifully illustrates God’s grace. Even when we stray and don’t use the gifts He’s given us, He is ready to forgive and welcomes us back with open arms. We don’t deserve this love in any way; it is truly a gift.
Forgiveness: A Command to Love
Forgiveness is one of the core beliefs of the Christian life, taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ Himself. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him, suggesting seven times might be enough. Jesus responds, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Jesus didn’t mean a literal number but instead shows that forgiveness should be limitless, just as God’s forgiveness toward us is limitless.
On the Cross, Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of forgiveness. Despite the agony of crucifixion and the betrayal by His own people, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). This prayer, spoken in the midst of unimaginable suffering, shows the depth of Jesus’ love and His commitment to forgiveness. Those who believe in Him receive this forgiveness.
Living Out Grace and Forgiveness
So what does this actually look like in real life? As followers of Christ, we are called to extend the same grace and forgiveness to others that we have received from God. This can be challenging, especially when we have been deeply hurt by someone or a group. However, forgiveness is not just about freeing others from guilt but also about freeing ourselves from the chains of bitterness and resentment. Colossians 3:13 encourages us, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Practicing grace and forgiveness in our daily lives allows us to live in the freedom that God intended. It also reminds us of the intense grace and mercy that God has given to us, completely undeserved. In addition, it reflects God’s love and character to the world around us and helps us to build deeper, more meaningful relationships.
By embracing these principles, we not only experience God’s love more fully but also become conduits of His love in the world. Want to know more about sharing what you believe or sharing His forgiveness? Check out our “Go” page, or check out some of the training videos from RightNow Media.