Prior Book | Prior Chapter | Prior Verse | Next Verse | Next Chapter | Next Book | Viewing NASB and Amplified 2015 | |
NASB | Matthew 6:15 "But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 6:15 "But if you do not forgive others [nurturing your hurt and anger with the result that it interferes with your relationship with God], then your Father will not forgive your trespasses. |
Subject: Where are the scriptures, believers? |
Bible Note: Dear Tim, You right, James 5:15 is a difficult passage. Here's what I believe. James was addressing problems in this body of believers. One of them is that they couldn't get along. See James 4:1. I understand James 5:15,16 to be forgiveness between members. (I could be wrong, that is why I ask to be challenged. The truth will survive serious scrutiny.) He says in verse 16, confess your sins to one another (not to God) so that the relationships can be healed. We still very much need to do that. Why? Because we do not often offer each other the unconditional love that Christ offers us. The antithesis of James 5:15 would be, "his sins won't be forgiven." This just doesn't fit with the rest of the scriptures about forgiveness and what, I believe, Christ has done. But, thanks for the challenge. I really do appreciate it. I will definately have to look at the book of James closer. That, believe it or not, was what I was seeking - some scripture that doesn't line up with my 'theology.' Now, where's my commentaries...? ;) Thanks for the honest reply without labeling me a heretic. In Christ, Bill Mc |