As Many Times as It Takes (Matthew 18:21-35)

Easy to say

DeWayne admits that saying "I forgive you" is easy. The hard part is asking whether you really did, and then figuring out what comes next with that person. He brought this topic because he was working through it himself.

Two separate things

Forgiveness is commanded and has no limit. That's the point of Jesus' answer to Peter: seventy times seven, as many times as it takes. Reconciliation is different. Proverbs says to guard your heart and that the prudent see danger and take cover. Paul says not to be yoked to unbelievers. Love doesn't mean standing in the line of fire.

Why we need each other

None of us has every answer. That's why Scripture keeps telling us not to do life alone. A group can help you see whether you're holding a grudge or simply keeping a wise distance. One participant called it a healthy distance, and that phrase stuck.

Try this

• Ask God to show you anyone you're still holding something against.
• Read Matthew 18:21-35, including the parable of the unforgiving servant.