What are the consequences of unforgiveness according to Matthew 6:15? The foundational verse Matthew 6:15: “But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours.” Immediate consequence: God withholds His forgiveness - Our sins stay on the ledger until we release others. - Fellowship with the Father stalls; the joy of salvation is muted (cf. Psalm 32:3-4). Spiritual ripple effects - Blocked prayers (Mark 11:25-26; Psalm 66:18). - Discipline from a loving Father (Hebrews 12:6-8). - Bitterness that “defiles many” (Hebrews 12:15). - A foothold for the enemy (Ephesians 4:26-27). - Worship short-circuited (Matthew 5:23-24). Relational fallout - Walls instead of bridges (Proverbs 18:19). - Erosion of unity in homes and churches (Colossians 3:13). Jesus’ reinforcing illustrations - Parable of the unforgiving servant—“So also My heavenly Father will do to each of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart” (Matthew 18:35). Pathway back to freedom - Recall the vast debt God forgave you (Ephesians 4:32). - Release offenders into God’s just hands (Romans 12:19). - Walk in the Spirit, not in old grudges (Galatians 5:16). Summary Refusing to forgive others means God withholds forgiveness from us, disrupting prayer, peace, and relationships. Mercy received must become mercy given to keep fellowship with the Father vibrant and unhindered. |
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