For a word that is so deeply biblical, there is far too much unbiblical thinking and talking being done about forgiveness. And it is not only unbelievers who are communicating poorly about this rich truth. Believers also seem confused about the nature of forgiveness.
This morning I came across two articles that address the topic of forgiveness from two different perspectives. The first is penned by Chris Braun, whose book on forgiveness was recently recommended to me as one of the best, if not the best, treatments on the topic. Braun writes in response to the trial of Casey Anthony. In such circumstances, comments are often made like, “we just need to forgive her…” But what is an appropriate response for those who see injustice (like a murder) but are not personally affected or involved?
…one of my goals with Unpacking Forgiveness was to consider situations when the wounds are deep and justice seems far away. When a case such as this is so much in the center of public awareness, it is critical that Christians interact responsibly with it and take the opportunity to point people to the Cross. To that end, I offer some basic principles regarding how we ought to respond.
- Trust God for Justice.
- Be confident that God loves little girls infinitely and eternally more than any of us.
- Take no revenge.
- Honor our court system.
- Point people to the Cross.
- Examine yourself.
- Don’t trivialize forgiveness and misrepresent it by saying silly things like, “We all need to forgive Casey Anthony.” [Read the entire post at: Unpacking the Casey Anthony Case.]
The second article is by Paul Tripp, who offers an exhortation to pursue forgiveness by reminding us first of the “benefits” of unforgiveness. That’s right, there are benefits to not forgiving others:
- Debt is power.
- Debt is identity.
- Debt is entitlement.
- Debt is weaponry.
- Debt puts us in God’s position.
But, as Tripp notes, there is a much better way: forgiveness.
Forgiveness is the only way to live in an intimate, long-term relationship with another sinner. Forgiveness is the only way to negotiate through the weakness and failure that will daily mark your relationships. It is the only way to deal with hurt and disappointment. Forgiveness is the only way to have hope and confidence restored. It is the only way to protect your love and reinforce the unity that you have built. Forgiveness is the only way not to be kidnapped by the past. It is the only way to give your relationships the blessing of fresh starts and new beginnings.
Words of Grace 