Luke 17:3-4 (TNIV)
3 So watch yourselves.“If a brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and IF they repent, forgive them. 4 Even IF they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.

In this Scripture, in context, Jesus is speaking about how we deal directly with others around us.  The focus is on the relationship we share, not just the condition of our heart.  In other words, Jesus is speaking here to the apostles about what they should do…not just how they should be.

QUESTION:  Is forgiving somone primarily for you or for them?

In that context, a few things struck me as “tough” concerning this Scripture: When I first read this Scripture – these words of Jesus – I wondered why the “if”? Because to bring reconciliation, forgiveness must be received as well as extended. If another person is unwilling to acknowledge his fault, they will not receive our forgiveness. Read More | Comments