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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Is forgiving the unrepentent scriptural? | Matthew | biblenovice | 223263 | ||
Most evangelists and preachers on radio, TV and the Internet say to "forgive everyone" of every wrong ever perpetrated against you, by anyone and any group (such as a company, an organization, etc.), regardless whether they repented or compensated for their wrongdoings or not! In contrast, Luke 17:3-4 tells us a very different story! In fact, Luke 17:3 COMMANDS us to REBUKE the perpetrator(s), and only extend CONDITIONAL forgiveness to them, IF the perpetrators REPENT of their wrongdoings! When Jesus was dying on the cross, He said, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." Was His request granted by the Father, or not? If so, wouldn't that mean that everyone was forgiven of every sin and transgression forevermore, with "no repentence required" at any time? If so, then why would ANYONE ever need the "conversion experience" of being "born again?" In fact, couldn't everybody just get a bible, then begin intentionally violating every law, precept and suggestion in the bible, as many times as possible, and then, upon dying, be welcomed into heaven for all eternity, only because of what Jesus said on the cross? Matthew 18:15 decscribes how a believer is supposed to "confront" an offender about sins or transgressions, and if that person refuses to repent (or acknowledge his or her transgressions), the matter is to be brought before an ever increasing amount of people, putting ever increasing pressure on the offender to repent and make restitution to those harmed. But, in the scenario where UNconditional forgiveness is granted to the UNrepentent, why does Matt 18:15 and related even exist in the bible? In other words, under what circumstances would Matthew 18:15 even apply? Considering the existence of both Luke 17:3-4 and Matt 18:15 and following, it appears that is is totally UNscriptural to forgive the UNrepentent. In closing this question, Matthew 21:12-13 depicts Jesus rebuking those who tried to make a temple into a marketplace. Were those who were put out of the temple wicked people? Jesus Himself referred to them as a "den of thieves", so what do you think? I mentioned this in case somebody wants to refer to a scripture that says one should not rebuke the wicked for any reason. | ||||||
2 | Is forgiving the unrepentent scriptural? | Matthew | lightedsteps | 223284 | ||
Hi biblenovice You say "When Jesus was dying on the cross, He said, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." Was His request granted by the Father, or not? If so, wouldn't that mean that everyone was forgiven of every sin and transgression forevermore, with "no repentence required" at any time?" Jesus also said before His crucifixion Joh 10:17,18 17) Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18) No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. He was saying He would lay down His life for the sins of the world, so when He said in. Luk 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. He was speaking of the men that were doing the actual crucifixion. Because no man took His life, He laid it down. Your use of this next verse Mat 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. Your not taking into account, it is a brother that is spoken of, not just some other person in society. With that in mind, the brother that will not admit his trespass towards you, is not doing what is right in the sight of God, and the church. There are still penalties for our actions even though we are saved. Using your choice of scripture. Mat 21:12,13 12) And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, 13) And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. Understand, this was the TEMPLE of GOD not just some building. Jesus said to them, "My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." Just to put it into perspective for you. Would you be angry if people came into your house, and started selling things, "This was HIS house!" It was not ever intended for people to sell things there. As far as your saying. "I mentioned this in case somebody wants to refer to a scripture that says one should not rebuke the wicked for any reason." Your position as a Christian, a follower of Christ, is to always forgive Mat 6:14,15 14) For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15) But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Notice this is different than Matt.18:15, it says "MAN" this denotes all mankind, not just a brother. So you are right, don't rebuke, it is useless to rebuke. Pro 9:7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Grace be unto you Lightedsteps |
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3 | Is forgiving the unrepentent scriptural? | Matthew | BornOne | 228433 | ||
Firstly, biblenovice... I agree that repentance before forgiveness is certainly God's principle. Secondly, I agree with both Beja's and lightedsteps' answers. Mat 6:14-15 is undoubtedly for the benefit of the believer, rather than advocating "letting off the hook" all unrepentant wrong-doers, as it would do the believer more harm than good to harbour vengeful feelings towards anyone. I might add that the question and both answers have been of help to me in clarifying God's principles and a believer's practical walk. Thanks to all. |
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