Group Notes | April 10
Agents of Grace: Forgiving Grace
April 10, 2016
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Open:
First impressions often are the basis for forming—or running from—a relationship. Can you share what you hope people think you are like, after they have first met you?
This week we continue to uncover ways in which we can demonstrate God’s amazing Grace to our world. We who have been saved have received grace that we did not deserve; now it is our turn to bestow that same grace on others, by forgiving an offense against us.
Discuss:
A Characteristic of Christ
- Read Psalm 103:8. How does this one verse describe your Lord?
- Read Eph. 1:7 and 2:8. How are your sins forgiven?
A Characteristic of a Christian
- Read Eph. 4:32. What does God expect of believers?
- Read Matt. 18:21. Why is it important that forgiveness be a constant part of your Christian walk?
Mercy Granted
- Read Matt. 18:23-27. Someone paraphrase these verses.
- How are these verses analogous to a sinner being saved?
Mercy Denied
- Read verses 28-33. Why is the debtor’s behavior shocking?
- Read Matt. 6:14, 15. What did Christ command us to do?
- Why would your Christian testimony rest on how you forgive those who have sinned against you?
Close:
Forgiveness is at the very root of Jesus’ love: “He paid a debt He did not owe, because you owed a debt you could not pay.” As you break into small groups, think about the opening. Ask yourself if others see you as joyful, bitter or just like the world. Share with the group, if possible, any hurts that need to be forgiven so they can pray for you. Pray before you leave, that God would fill you with such joy and compassion for others that people who are with you a short time want to know what it is that makes you different. Ask Him to give you opportunities to share His forgiveness for your sins, and let them know He is waiting to forgive theirs as well!
Focal Passages: Matthew 18:21-35; Hosea Chapters 1-3, Heb. 12:14, 15.
Memory Verse: Rev. 22:21: “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.”
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