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NASB | Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. |
Bible Question:
Have you forgiven those who caused the loss of life on Tuesday? Explain. Should the church or nation let the family members of the suspected terrorists know -we have forgiven the their family members -we hold no grudge against them -God loves them and so do we -we are available to meet their needs -we are praying for them ... Explain. Sin are forgiven and there will be consequences, like David's sin with Bathsheba (1Sa 12:13-14). Steve |
Bible Answer: Dear Steve, Frankly, I do not think that letting these people know these things while they are free is of any consequence. We are not talking about being slapped on the cheek by a brother, but an avowed enemy of all that we believe. I doubt that these hardened hearts would be impressed. When they are in custody, and able to see their victims and be seen by their victims, it is possible that shame could enter in to their souls, leading to a heart open to repentence. We should, at that time, let them know that Jesus is Lord, and could forgive their sins. At that time, we also should be able to control our anger, and replace it with compassion for the lost. Prior to this, we cast pearls before (loose) swine. Justice demands the rights of their victims be upheld. If it is God's will, they could come to a saving knowledge of Him. At their execution (to execute, or effect justice) they would be commended unto the Lord for His righteous judgment. Finally, have I, personally, forgiven them? I am not in a position to forgive them their sins. I can only say that their actions are cowardly and despicable, and that I am outraged by their perverted thinking. I will answer you when I see them disarmed and in chains. In Jesus' name, charis |