THREAT TO CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: UNFORGIVENESS.

TEXT: Matthew 18: 21-35, Mark 11:25-26.

AIMS:

1. To teach that life is a circle, what goes around comes around, either good or bad.
2. To remind us that we will benefit more from every single action we take, even, UNFORGIVENESS.

INTRODUCTION

Every good and perfect gift is from above and from the father of lights (James 1:17), unforgiveness is a product of evil seed which cannot stand the light from God. It is not from God; therefore, deliberate decision must be taken to cast it out of every Christian fellowship or else, it will eat deep into the body, and make it less effective.

Unforgiveness is the opposite of forgiveness, chronic anger is one of its offspring. You can pick up a fight, then switch to a flight mode with that person that offend you. This had been confirmed to be the result of numerous changes in heart rate, blood pressure and immune response. Those changes then increase the risk of depression, heart disease and diabetes, among other conditions. However, forgiveness calms stress levels, leading to improved health.

To choose not to have compassion for someone that has offended us, and deliberate decision not to forgive them is a practical system engaged by Satan to gradually destroy us. At first, it will destroy our relationship with our heavenly father, our prayers will not be heard because we’ve not received forgiveness of our sins. Two, it will destroy our health as earlier stated and three, our relationship (fellowship with other believers) will collapse.

DISCUSSION

1. How does God want us to live with all men? 2 Corinthians 13:11, Hebrews 12:14
2. How would you advise someone who is embittered already because he was offended.
3. As anyone offended you before? Share your experience and how you came out of it.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The best way to hurt yourself is to hold grudges against whoever offends you, someone who does not even care how you feel! You’re only helping yourself when forgiveness is the peak of your attributes in dealing with others. Live in peace with all men and experience all round wellness.

MEMORY VERSE: Luke 6:37.