Principles of Biblical Forgiveness

#1 The only alternative to forgiveness is retaliation.

#2 We are obligated to forgive.

#3 We must usher each other toward forgiveness.

#4 We forgive because we are forgiven.

#5 We must strive to forgive immediately.

#6 It is easier to forgive if we believe in God’s sovereignty.

#7 We must forgive from the heart.

#8 As we forgive, we agree to bear the cost of the offence.

#9 Forgiveness before God in the heart must be immediate and at all times, while forgiveness/restoration of the relationship is conditioned by repentance.

#10 Forgiveness is a decision, proclamation, and promise!

• “I will not think about it.”
• “I will not bring it up and use it against you.”
• “I will not talk to others about it.”
• “I will not allow it to stand between us or hinder our personal relationship.”