Topical Encyclopedia Forgiveness is a central tenet of Christian doctrine, deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the broader biblical narrative. It involves the pardoning of offenses and the relinquishing of resentment or vengeance towards those who have caused harm. However, forgiveness is not merely an isolated act; it is intricately linked with the virtue of forbearance, which involves patience, self-control, and restraint in the face of provocation.Biblical Foundation The Bible provides numerous exhortations to forgive others, reflecting the forgiveness that God extends to humanity. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). This reciprocal nature of forgiveness underscores the expectation that believers will extend the same grace to others that they have received from God. Forbearance in Scripture Forbearance is the quality of exercising patience and restraint, particularly when wronged. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this virtue in his epistles. In Colossians 3:13, he writes, "Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" . Here, forbearance is presented as a precursor to forgiveness, suggesting that enduring patience is necessary to truly forgive. Similarly, in Ephesians 4:2, Paul urges believers to live "with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" . This passage highlights the interconnectedness of humility, gentleness, and patience, all of which are essential components of forbearance. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ exemplifies the perfect model of forgiveness and forbearance. Despite being subjected to mockery, torture, and crucifixion, He demonstrated unparalleled restraint and compassion. On the cross, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). This profound act of forgiveness was accompanied by a remarkable forbearance, as He chose not to retaliate or condemn His persecutors. Practical Application In practical terms, forgiveness accompanied by forbearance requires believers to exercise patience and self-control, even when wronged. It involves a conscious decision to let go of bitterness and to respond with love and understanding. This is not a passive acceptance of injustice but an active choice to reflect Christ's love and mercy. The Apostle Peter advises, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing" (1 Peter 3:9). This instruction encapsulates the essence of forbearance, urging believers to respond to offenses with grace and blessing rather than retaliation. Challenges and Rewards Forgiving injuries and practicing forbearance can be challenging, especially when faced with deep hurt or repeated offenses. However, the Bible assures believers of the spiritual rewards of such obedience. In Matthew 5:7, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" . This beatitude promises divine favor to those who extend mercy and forgiveness to others. Moreover, the practice of forgiveness and forbearance fosters personal peace and reconciliation within the community of believers. It reflects the transformative power of the Gospel and serves as a testimony to the world of God's redemptive love. Torrey's Topical Textbook Colossians 3:13Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do you. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library 1 Timothy ii. 4-Jan Index of Subjects. Elucidations. To those who had not Attended the Assembly. The Morality of the Gospel. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility The First Epistle of St. Peter Light for them that Sit in Darkness; Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Resources Since God withholds forgiveness, can we? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about forgiveness? What does it mean to forgive? | GotQuestions.org What is forgiveness? | GotQuestions.org Forgiveness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Forgiveness of Injuries: A Characteristic of Saints Forgiveness of Injuries: A Glory to Saints Forgiveness of Injuries: Christ Set an Example of Forgiveness of Injuries: Commanded Forgiveness of Injuries: David Forgiveness of Injuries: Illustrated Forgiveness of Injuries: Joseph Forgiveness of Injuries: Motives to Christ's Forgiveness of Us Forgiveness of Injuries: Motives to God's Forgiveness of Us Forgiveness of Injuries: Motives to Our Need of Forgiveness Forgiveness of Injuries: Motives to The Mercy of God Forgiveness of Injuries: No Forgiveness Without Forgiveness of Injuries: Promises To Forgiveness of Injuries: should be Accompanied by Blessing and Prayer Forgiveness of Injuries: should be Accompanied by Forbearance Forgiveness of Injuries: should be Accompanied by Kindness Forgiveness of Injuries: Solomon Forgiveness of Injuries: Stephen Forgiveness of Injuries: To be Unlimited Forgiveness: David Forgives Saul Forgiveness: David Forgives Shimei Forgiveness: Esau Forgives Jacob Forgiveness: Jesus Forgives his Enemies Forgiveness: Joseph Forgives his Brothers Forgiveness: Moses Forgives the Israelites Forgiveness: Solomon Forgives Adonijah Forgiveness: The Prophet of Judah Forgives Jeroboam Related Terms |
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