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Topic: Let’s Forgive One Another
[DCLM Daily Manna 8th August 2018 Daily Devotional]
Text: Matthew 18:15-22 (KJV)
Key Verse: “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21,22).
MESSAGE:
Joseph’s brothers had sold him into slavery in Egypt. But by God’s providence, his fortune was turned around and he became a great ruler with great power and authority in the greatest kingdom on earth at that time. Eventually, fate brought the brothers before him, but he forgave and nourished them and their households. That is the path of honour.
Our text deals with offences and forgiveness among brethren. Jesus outlines modalities to follow in settling disputes in the Church. The offended person takes the initiative, approaches the offender to make peace. If he accepts his error, the matter dies there. If not, others can be involved. But if he yet refuses to accept his fault, he should be regarded as a heathen. When all things are amicably settled, believers can command heaven’s attention in prayer with assurance of answers.
The issue of forgiveness, love and peace in the family and in the Church is of paramount importance to God. Offences will surely come, but the decision to forgive and forbear rests with the believer whom God has also given the grace to forgive an enemy. There are devastating consequences of unresolved issues among believers.
Love and forgiveness among brethren should be visible in the Church, because by it men know that they are truly followers of Christ. A believer should also love his enemies. Christ led by example; He prayed for those that crucified Him. Stephen did the same. Every believer must follow the same example because without forgiveness, there will be confusion and endless strifes.
Thought For The Day: Forgive others so that God can forgive you.
Bible Reading In One Year: Jeremiah 4-6
