WALKING IN FORGIVENESS

WALKING IN FORGIVENESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 18:21-35

Supporting Texts: Ephesians 4:31-32, Colossians 3:12-14, Mark 11:25, Luke 6:37, Romans 12:17-21

INTRODUCTION:
Forgiveness is at the heart of the Christian faith. God’s forgiveness toward us is the foundation of our salvation, and He expects us to extend the same mercy to others. Yet, many believers struggle with forgiveness—especially when deeply hurt or wronged. Walking in forgiveness is not optional for Christians; it is a command that brings freedom to the offended and honour to God.

To forgive is to release someone from the prison of offence and, in doing so, free yourself. Unforgiveness breeds bitterness, hinders prayers, and opens the door to spiritual bondage. Jesus made it clear in the parable of the unforgiving servant that receiving God's forgiveness demands that we forgive others in return.

In this sermon, we will uncover what it means to walk in forgiveness, why it is essential, and how we can make forgiveness a lifestyle, even in a world where offences are inevitable.

1. FORGIVENESS IS A COMMAND, NOT A SUGGESTION
Forgiveness is a divine instruction and must be obeyed if we are to remain in fellowship with God.

a) Jesus Instructs Us to Forgive Others (Matthew 18:21-22)
Peter’s question reveals a mindset of limit, but Jesus calls for limitless forgiveness.

b) Forgiveness Reflects God's Nature in Us (Ephesians 4:32)
We are to forgive as God forgave us—freely and completely.

c) Forgiveness is Part of Christian Maturity (Colossians 3:13)
Bearing with one another and forgiving is a mark of spiritual growth.

d) It is Key to Receiving God’s Mercy (Mark 11:25)
If we refuse to forgive, we hinder God’s forgiveness toward us.

Biblical Example: Stephen, even as he was being stoned, prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60).

2. UNFORGIVENESS IS A SPIRITUAL TRAP
Holding on to offences empowers the devil to torment and hinder your spiritual growth.

a) Bitterness Defiles the Heart (Hebrews 12:15)
Unforgiveness grows into bitterness, which corrupts the soul.

b) It Opens the Door to the Enemy (2 Corinthians 2:10-11)
Satan gains advantage through unresolved offences.

c) It Blocks Answered Prayers (Mark 11:26)
God cannot answer prayers from a heart full of unforgiveness.

d) Unforgiveness Breeds More Sin (Romans 12:17-21)
It leads to retaliation, malice, and other destructive behaviours.

Biblical Example: The unforgiving servant was handed over to tormentors because he failed to forgive others as he was forgiven (Matthew 18:34-35).

3. FORGIVENESS LIBERATES AND HEALS
Forgiveness releases both the offender and the offended from spiritual and emotional bondage.

a) Forgiveness Brings Inner Healing (Psalm 147:3)
When you forgive, God begins to heal your wounds.

b) It Restores Broken Relationships (Luke 15:20-24)
The prodigal son was welcomed home because of a forgiving father.

c) Forgiveness Invites Divine Peace (Philippians 4:6-7)
Letting go brings supernatural peace that guards your heart.

d) It Restores Your Spiritual Sensitivity (Ephesians 4:30-32)
Forgiveness keeps your heart tender and your spirit sensitive to God.

Biblical Example: Joseph forgave his brothers and brought healing to an entire family lineage (Genesis 50:19-21).

4. PRACTICAL WAYS TO WALK IN FORGIVENESS
Walking in forgiveness is not always easy, but it is possible with the help of God.

a) Decide to Obey God’s Command (Luke 6:37)
Forgiveness begins with a decision, not a feeling.

b) Pray for Those Who Offend You (Matthew 5:44)
This releases God’s love and helps you see them through His eyes.

c) Release the Debt, Don’t Keep Records (1 Corinthians 13:5)
Love keeps no record of wrongs—it lets go and moves on.

d) Seek Healing Through the Word and the Spirit (Romans 12:2)
Renew your mind with Scripture and allow the Holy Spirit to work in you.

Biblical Example: Jesus, in His final moments, prayed for His killers: “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).

CONCLUSION:
Walking in forgiveness is a daily choice that leads to liberty, healing, and spiritual power. It is the pathway to peace, divine favour, and answered prayers. The one who forgives walks in the footsteps of Jesus and aligns with heaven’s standard of love.

Let us decide today to break every chain of offence, bitterness, and resentment. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, you can forgive, heal, and rise into a higher realm of spiritual maturity and fruitfulness. Let your heart be free to love again, to trust God again, and to live fully.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to forgive every offence in my heart.
2. Father, heal every wound caused by betrayal or hurt.
3. I break every chain of bitterness and resentment in Jesus’ name.
4. Help me to walk daily in love, mercy, and compassion.
5. Lord, restore every relationship damaged by unforgiveness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will no longer be held captive by past offences!
2. The grace to forgive and walk in freedom is resting on you now!
3. Every root of bitterness in your life is uprooted today!
4. Your heart shall overflow with love and peace!
5. From today, you will walk in supernatural liberty and divine favour!