The Session: Forgiveness versus Unforgiveness

The Session: Forgiveness versus Unforgiveness, from Dr. Paul Tripp(Ephesians 4:31-5:2)   Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.  Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.  Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.First, an introduction.  Dr. Paul David Tripp was born in Toledo.  He is a pastor, international event speaker, and author of more than 30 books and video series.  He defines forgiveness in a single, simple sentence: Forgiveness is a vertical commitment followed by a horizontal transaction.  What we are going to share is a summary of several articles and videos Dr. Tripp has done on forgiveness.  His website is Paul Tripp dot com.The Beautiful Power of Relational DebtHolding on to someone else’s wrongs gives us the upper handHolding a record of a person’s wrongs gives us the upper hand in that relationshipThe Dark Unhealthy Benefits of UnforgivenessDebt is power. It protects us in an unhealthy way.Debt is identity. It helps us feel more righteous and mature than the person we’re angry at.Debt is entitlement holding another person. Send against them makes us feel entitled.We can weaponize unforgiveness and use it for our advantageUnforgiveness makes us equal with GodIt is not our job to dispense consequences to those who have hurt usThe Ugly Selfishness of Relational Unforgiveness It has nothing to do with God and loving othersThe Beauty of ForgivenessThe beauty of leading a life of forgiveness shows us how much we have embraced our forgiveness of our sins.The Parable of the Unforgiving ServantAfter pleading with his his master for forgiveness and being granted forgiveness, he goes out and demands repayment from people who owed him. Matthew 18:21-35  A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!To reach Tom Russell, please call 419-709-8447, email Tom at [email protected], or visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com