Subject: Can we not ask God to forgive another? |
Bible Note: I am not propsoing universal salvation but I do believe in the universal atonement of the cross. Salvation is called a gift for good reason. First of all it is freely given and secondly, it must be received. Forgiveness is a completed act of God, but the result is not effected until it is appropriated by the recipient. We appropriate the blessing of forgiveness when we repent. Can one enjoy God's forgiveness while continuing in sin? It's like a pig in mud. He can't be clean unless he gets out of the mud for a bath. (First he has to recognize that he's dirty though!)The pig must choose to leave the mud puddle. Some pigs prefer to wallow a while, I think. Perhaps this is where the prayers of the saints come in - to pray for other pigs to see their dirt and leave the mud hole. We have a role to play in this, but I suspect that many in the herd expend too much effort upon "mud spot inspection" - which I believe is ultimately the responsibility of the Shepherd. mommapbs |