Pathway to Victory offers a practical application of God’s Word to everyday life through the clear, biblical teaching of Pastor Jeffress.
#inActive
#Heart
#SpiritualGrowth
#Disciples
#Discipleship
#Sin
#Forgiveness
#Death
#Jesus
#IdentityinChrist
#Debt-Free
#Believe
#Faith
#TrustGod
Closed captions
Show Timecode
Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - Developing A Forgiving Heart (Part 2) | August 22, 2025
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:00:01.146 --> 00:00:06.185
- From the pulpit of the first baptist church
- 00:00:07.086 --> 00:00:09.555
- Of dallas, texas, this is "pathway to victory"
- 00:00:09.555 --> 00:00:12.524
- With dr. robert jeffers.
- 00:00:12.524 --> 00:00:15.094
- Hi, i'm robert jeffers,
- 00:00:15.594 --> 00:00:16.895
- And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
- 00:00:16.895 --> 00:00:19.698
- At some point in our lives,
- 00:00:19.698 --> 00:00:21.333
- All of us are bound to feel abandoned or betrayed.
- 00:00:21.333 --> 00:00:24.903
- In those intense moments of hurt and pain,
- 00:00:24.903 --> 00:00:27.539
- How do we find the power to forgive?
- 00:00:27.539 --> 00:00:30.342
- Today, i'm going to show you why forgiveness
- 00:00:30.342 --> 00:00:32.845
- Isn't just good advice.
- 00:00:32.845 --> 00:00:34.746
- It's essential for your physical health,
- 00:00:34.746 --> 00:00:37.683
- Emotional well-being, and most importantly,
- 00:00:37.683 --> 00:00:40.452
- Your spiritual life.
- 00:00:40.452 --> 00:00:42.321
- My message is titled, "developing a forgiving heart,"
- 00:00:42.321 --> 00:00:46.391
- On today's edition of "pathway to victory."
- 00:00:46.391 --> 00:00:50.329
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:00:50.329 --> 00:00:55.334
- ♪ death could not hold you ♪
- 00:00:55.968 --> 00:00:59.004
- ♪ veil tore before you, ♪
- 00:00:59.004 --> 00:01:02.274
- ♪ you silenced the boast of sin and grave. ♪
- 00:01:02.274 --> 00:01:08.614
- ♪ the heavens are roaring ♪
- 00:01:09.248 --> 00:01:12.618
- ♪ the praise of your glory ♪
- 00:01:12.618 --> 00:01:16.421
- ♪ for you are raised to life again ♪
- 00:01:16.421 --> 00:01:23.128
- ♪ you have no rival ♪
- 00:01:23.662 --> 00:01:26.932
- ♪ you have no equal ♪
- 00:01:26.932 --> 00:01:30.569
- ♪ now and forever god you reign ♪
- 00:01:30.569 --> 00:01:37.109
- ♪ yours is the kingdom ♪
- 00:01:37.643 --> 00:01:41.180
- ♪ yours is the glory ♪
- 00:01:41.180 --> 00:01:44.716
- ♪ yours is the name above all names ♪
- 00:01:44.716 --> 00:01:54.626
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:01:55.294 --> 00:02:02.201
- ♪ the name of jesus christ my king ♪
- 00:01:58.730 --> 00:02:08.540
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:02:09.208 --> 00:02:12.878
- ♪ nothing can stand against ♪
- 00:02:12.878 --> 00:02:16.281
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:02:16.281 --> 00:02:19.184
- ♪ the name of jesus ♪
- 00:02:19.184 --> 00:02:23.622
- ♪ you have no rival ♪
- 00:02:23.622 --> 00:02:27.025
- ♪ you have no equal ♪
- 00:02:27.025 --> 00:02:30.562
- ♪ now and forever god you reign ♪
- 00:02:30.562 --> 00:02:37.035
- ♪ yours is the kingdom ♪
- 00:02:37.569 --> 00:02:41.206
- ♪ yours is the glory ♪
- 00:02:41.206 --> 00:02:44.710
- ♪ yours is the name above all names ♪
- 00:02:44.710 --> 00:02:51.116
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:02:51.783 --> 00:02:58.790
- ♪ the name of jesus christ my king ♪
- 00:02:55.153 --> 00:03:04.596
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:03:05.264 --> 00:03:09.234
- ♪ nothing can stand against ♪
- 00:03:09.234 --> 00:03:12.804
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:03:12.804 --> 00:03:15.540
- ♪ the name of jesus ♪
- 00:03:15.540 --> 00:03:19.745
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:03:19.745 --> 00:03:22.814
- ♪ the name of jesus ♪
- 00:03:22.814 --> 00:03:26.885
- ♪ what a powerful name it is ♪
- 00:03:26.885 --> 00:03:29.688
- ♪ the name of jesus! ♪
- 00:03:29.688 --> 00:03:34.960
- ♪ there is no other name but jesus ♪
- 00:03:35.794 --> 00:03:46.872
- (crowd applauding)
- 00:03:47.306 --> 00:03:53.111
- Give your heart the encouragement it needs,
- 00:03:54.012 --> 00:03:56.181
- Start and end each day meditating on god's word
- 00:03:56.181 --> 00:03:59.184
- With "encouragement for the heart of a disciple."
- 00:03:59.184 --> 00:04:01.787
- This brand new, beautiful, full-color,
- 00:04:01.787 --> 00:04:03.789
- Padded hardcover book by dr. robert jeffers
- 00:04:03.789 --> 00:04:06.491
- Features 80 breathtaking images of creation.
- 00:04:06.491 --> 00:04:09.528
- Paired with scripture, prayers and insights
- 00:04:09.528 --> 00:04:11.830
- You can read in under two minutes,
- 00:04:11.830 --> 00:04:13.799
- Perfect for your coffee table,
- 00:04:13.799 --> 00:04:15.367
- Or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one.
- 00:04:15.367 --> 00:04:17.469
- Request "encouragement for the heart of a disciple"
- 00:04:17.469 --> 00:04:20.205
- When you give a generous gift to "pathway to victory."
- 00:04:20.205 --> 00:04:24.676
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:04:25.010 --> 00:04:32.951
- Forgetting is a biological function,
- 00:04:33.719 --> 00:04:36.755
- But forgiving is a spiritual function.
- 00:04:36.755 --> 00:04:40.892
- Just because you forgive,
- 00:04:40.892 --> 00:04:42.894
- Doesn't mean you necessarily forget.
- 00:04:42.894 --> 00:04:45.197
- Forgiveness is saying,
- 00:04:45.197 --> 00:04:46.465
- "i'm no longer going to hold this offense
- 00:04:46.465 --> 00:04:48.333
- Against this person.
- 00:04:48.333 --> 00:04:49.601
- I'm going to let god deal with it."
- 00:04:49.601 --> 00:04:51.670
- Now, i know some of you bible scholars are saying,
- 00:04:51.670 --> 00:04:53.405
- "now, pastor, wait a minute.
- 00:04:53.405 --> 00:04:54.940
- Doesn't the bible say when god forgives, he forgets?"
- 00:04:54.940 --> 00:04:58.810
- And they quote jeremiah 31:34, god says,
- 00:04:58.810 --> 00:05:01.513
- "i will forgive their iniquity and their sin.
- 00:05:01.513 --> 00:05:04.316
- I will what? remember no more."
- 00:05:04.316 --> 00:05:07.753
- God forgets, shouldn't we? now think about this.
- 00:05:07.753 --> 00:05:11.490
- When god forgives our offenses,
- 00:05:11.490 --> 00:05:13.692
- Do you think really a divine case
- 00:05:13.692 --> 00:05:15.727
- Of heavenly alzheimer's sets in on god?
- 00:05:15.727 --> 00:05:18.830
- Well, i just can't remember that anymore.
- 00:05:18.830 --> 00:05:20.365
- I guess i'm getting old. is that what happens?
- 00:05:20.365 --> 00:05:24.403
- Of course not. it's not that god forgets.
- 00:05:24.403 --> 00:05:28.907
- I think the best way to understand
- 00:05:28.907 --> 00:05:30.575
- What god's forgiveness means is found in romans 4:7-8.
- 00:05:30.575 --> 00:05:34.379
- When paul quoting psalm 32 says,
- 00:05:34.379 --> 00:05:36.782
- "blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven,
- 00:05:36.782 --> 00:05:40.986
- Whose sin has been covered.
- 00:05:40.986 --> 00:05:43.121
- Blessed is the man who sinned.
- 00:05:43.121 --> 00:05:45.190
- The lord will not take into account."
- 00:05:45.190 --> 00:05:49.027
- That's what it means.
- 00:05:49.027 --> 00:05:50.328
- He no longer charges our sin to our account.
- 00:05:50.328 --> 00:05:54.533
- That's a forgiveness transaction.
- 00:05:54.533 --> 00:05:57.202
- When god forgives us,
- 00:05:57.202 --> 00:05:58.503
- He no longer holds us accountable for our sin.
- 00:05:58.503 --> 00:06:03.642
- Listen, the bible says, every time we sin against god,
- 00:06:04.743 --> 00:06:08.947
- We owe god for the sin we've committed.
- 00:06:09.781 --> 00:06:11.516
- Sin always creates an obligation.
- 00:06:11.516 --> 00:06:14.953
- And the more we sin, the bigger the iou that we owe god.
- 00:06:14.953 --> 00:06:19.524
- I mean, just think about it.
- 00:06:19.524 --> 00:06:20.792
- Every wrong thought, every wrong motivation,
- 00:06:20.792 --> 00:06:23.094
- Every wrong action is a sin that requires repayment.
- 00:06:23.094 --> 00:06:27.833
- And our sin debt is spinning around quicker
- 00:06:27.833 --> 00:06:30.602
- Than the national debt right now.
- 00:06:30.602 --> 00:06:33.171
- Our sin debt to god is incalculable,
- 00:06:33.171 --> 00:06:35.674
- And the longer you live, the bigger that debt becomes.
- 00:06:35.674 --> 00:06:39.878
- And listen,
- 00:06:39.878 --> 00:06:41.246
- If you die without having paid off that sin debt,
- 00:06:41.246 --> 00:06:44.850
- Then you spend eternity in hell, separated from god,
- 00:06:44.850 --> 00:06:48.220
- Trying to pay off that debt.
- 00:06:48.220 --> 00:06:50.188
- The bible says, for the wages of sin is death.
- 00:06:50.188 --> 00:06:53.992
- Eternal death.
- 00:06:53.992 --> 00:06:55.961
- The biggest choice you and i make in life is the choice.
- 00:06:57.095 --> 00:07:00.198
- Who's going to pay for my sin? it has to be paid for.
- 00:07:00.198 --> 00:07:03.835
- The bible says god cannot overlook our iniquity.
- 00:07:03.835 --> 00:07:06.371
- He can't turn his back and play like it never happened.
- 00:07:06.371 --> 00:07:08.740
- God is a holy god who demands payment for our sin.
- 00:07:08.740 --> 00:07:12.277
- The question is, who's going to pay for it?
- 00:07:12.277 --> 00:07:15.280
- Do you think jumping in that baptistry over there
- 00:07:15.280 --> 00:07:17.215
- Is going to wash away your sins?
- 00:07:17.215 --> 00:07:18.817
- Uh-uh. not enough water in the world to wash away your sins.
- 00:07:18.817 --> 00:07:23.321
- Do you think joining a church is going to do it? no.
- 00:07:23.321 --> 00:07:25.457
- Baptism and church membership are important,
- 00:07:25.457 --> 00:07:27.626
- But they have nothing to do with paying your sin debt.
- 00:07:27.626 --> 00:07:30.862
- Oh, there's only one person who can pay your sin debt.
- 00:07:30.862 --> 00:07:33.532
- And his name is jesus christ.
- 00:07:33.532 --> 00:07:35.867
- And that's exactly what he did on the cross.
- 00:07:35.867 --> 00:07:39.271
- Let me show you what god did with your iou and my iou,
- 00:07:39.271 --> 00:07:44.042
- If we really have trusted in christ.
- 00:07:44.042 --> 00:07:46.311
- It's in colossians 2:13 and 14.
- 00:07:46.311 --> 00:07:48.813
- He has forgiven us of all of our transgressions.
- 00:07:48.813 --> 00:07:52.150
- This is so great.
- 00:07:52.150 --> 00:07:53.485
- Having canceled out the certificate of debt,
- 00:07:53.485 --> 00:07:57.789
- Consisting of decrees against us, which were hostile to us,
- 00:07:57.789 --> 00:08:01.426
- And he has taken that certificate of debt out of the way,
- 00:08:01.426 --> 00:08:05.130
- Having nailed it to the cross.
- 00:08:05.130 --> 00:08:07.933
- Ain't that a great truth?
- 00:08:07.933 --> 00:08:09.734
- You know, in paul's day, if you went to jail,
- 00:08:10.635 --> 00:08:13.538
- There was a certificate of debt placed above your cell,
- 00:08:13.538 --> 00:08:16.474
- Listing all of your offenses.
- 00:08:16.474 --> 00:08:18.043
- Everything you did to deserve going to jail.
- 00:08:18.043 --> 00:08:20.979
- Well, look at what god has done.
- 00:08:20.979 --> 00:08:22.581
- Can you imagine how long our certificate of debt to god is?
- 00:08:22.581 --> 00:08:25.517
- A listing of everything we've done?
- 00:08:25.517 --> 00:08:27.686
- What has god done with that certificate of debt?
- 00:08:27.686 --> 00:08:29.888
- He has taken it,
- 00:08:29.888 --> 00:08:31.289
- And he's nailed it to the cross of jesus christ.
- 00:08:31.289 --> 00:08:33.992
- Remember some of jesus' final words on the cross were,
- 00:08:33.992 --> 00:08:37.596
- -it is what? -finished.
- 00:08:37.596 --> 00:08:40.498
- Finished.
- 00:08:40.498 --> 00:08:41.866
- The greek word, one greek word there, tetelestai.
- 00:08:41.866 --> 00:08:45.503
- Tetelestai. that word literally means paid in full.
- 00:08:45.503 --> 00:08:50.775
- Isn't that great?
- 00:08:51.209 --> 00:08:52.711
- Jesus paid the debt we could never repay,
- 00:08:52.711 --> 00:08:55.380
- That $16 billion sin that he's done it all.
- 00:08:55.380 --> 00:08:59.618
- There is nothing we can add to it.
- 00:08:59.618 --> 00:09:02.253
- But there's something we must do to receive it.
- 00:09:02.253 --> 00:09:06.324
- The biggest choice we ever make in our life is the choice,
- 00:09:06.324 --> 00:09:09.527
- Who's going to pay for my sin?
- 00:09:09.527 --> 00:09:11.329
- We can spend all of this life
- 00:09:11.329 --> 00:09:13.531
- And all eternity in hell trying to pay off that debt
- 00:09:13.531 --> 00:09:16.368
- And we'll never do it.
- 00:09:16.368 --> 00:09:17.469
- Or we can say, by faith, jesus,
- 00:09:17.469 --> 00:09:20.271
- I believe you paid the debt for me.
- 00:09:20.271 --> 00:09:22.440
- I'm not trusting in myself.
- 00:09:22.440 --> 00:09:23.875
- I'm trusting in what you did for me.
- 00:09:23.875 --> 00:09:26.144
- I'm going to allow you to pay the debt for me.
- 00:09:26.144 --> 00:09:30.315
- That's what jesus christ offers to do.
- 00:09:30.315 --> 00:09:34.185
- Now, forgiveness is not about forgetting.
- 00:09:34.185 --> 00:09:37.422
- It's about not holding to account somebody else's sin.
- 00:09:37.422 --> 00:09:41.059
- Fourth, forgiveness is not reconciling with our offender.
- 00:09:41.059 --> 00:09:45.664
- Forgiveness does not necessarily mean
- 00:09:45.664 --> 00:09:48.333
- Reconciling with our offender.
- 00:09:48.333 --> 00:09:50.435
- I've talked to many women who have been physically abused
- 00:09:50.435 --> 00:09:55.407
- By their husbands.
- 00:09:55.407 --> 00:09:57.175
- And they've made the right choice to separate,
- 00:09:57.175 --> 00:09:59.911
- To move themselves,
- 00:09:59.911 --> 00:10:01.446
- And/or their children away from that abusive background.
- 00:10:01.446 --> 00:10:04.416
- God doesn't ask us to go through physical harm in the home.
- 00:10:04.416 --> 00:10:09.688
- That's not god's plan at all.
- 00:10:10.321 --> 00:10:12.524
- And yet, somewhere along the way, after they've separated,
- 00:10:12.524 --> 00:10:15.660
- They realize, as a christian,
- 00:10:15.660 --> 00:10:17.028
- They need to forgive their husband.
- 00:10:17.028 --> 00:10:19.431
- But they're reluctant to do so,
- 00:10:19.431 --> 00:10:21.599
- Because they're afraid that if they forgive their husband,
- 00:10:21.599 --> 00:10:25.336
- That that means they have to automatically move back in
- 00:10:25.336 --> 00:10:27.839
- And put their lives or the life of their children in danger.
- 00:10:27.839 --> 00:10:30.341
- No.
- 00:10:30.341 --> 00:10:31.609
- There's a big difference between forgiveness
- 00:10:31.609 --> 00:10:34.345
- And reconciliation.
- 00:10:34.345 --> 00:10:36.581
- Forgiveness is unconditional.
- 00:10:36.581 --> 00:10:38.783
- It doesn't depend on what my offender does or doesn't do.
- 00:10:38.783 --> 00:10:42.287
- But reconciliation is very conditional.
- 00:10:42.287 --> 00:10:45.523
- You can forgive people who never say, "i'm sorry."
- 00:10:45.523 --> 00:10:48.727
- But you never can be reconciled with people until they say,
- 00:10:48.727 --> 00:10:51.730
- "i'm sorry."
- 00:10:51.730 --> 00:10:53.164
- Specifically to rebuild a broken relationship
- 00:10:53.164 --> 00:10:56.501
- Requires several things.
- 00:10:56.501 --> 00:10:58.069
- It requires repentance.
- 00:10:58.069 --> 00:11:00.038
- You can't be back in a relationship
- 00:11:00.038 --> 00:11:01.573
- With somebody who doesn't say, "i'm sorry."
- 00:11:01.573 --> 00:11:03.742
- The bible says,
- 00:11:03.742 --> 00:11:05.143
- "how can two walk together lest they be agreed?"
- 00:11:05.143 --> 00:11:08.179
- Sometimes it takes rehabilitation.
- 00:11:08.179 --> 00:11:10.515
- The person who's wronged you
- 00:11:10.515 --> 00:11:11.683
- May need to go through counseling.
- 00:11:11.683 --> 00:11:13.418
- They need to go through some spiritual process
- 00:11:13.418 --> 00:11:15.720
- To be restored.
- 00:11:15.720 --> 00:11:17.455
- Thirdly, sometimes restitution is necessary.
- 00:11:17.455 --> 00:11:20.859
- You can forgive your business partner
- 00:11:20.859 --> 00:11:22.827
- Who cheated you out of $100,000,
- 00:11:22.827 --> 00:11:24.863
- But before you go back into business,
- 00:11:24.863 --> 00:11:26.898
- You probably want to see him pay back that $100,000.
- 00:11:26.898 --> 00:11:30.568
- Best way to understand this, is like this.
- 00:11:31.469 --> 00:11:34.739
- Forgiveness has no strings attached to it.
- 00:11:34.739 --> 00:11:38.943
- Reconciliation has several strings attached to it.
- 00:11:38.943 --> 00:11:43.648
- Forgiveness can be offered to those who never say,
- 00:11:43.648 --> 00:11:45.917
- "i'm sorry."
- 00:11:45.917 --> 00:11:47.619
- Reconciliation can only be offered to those who say,
- 00:11:47.619 --> 00:11:50.955
- "i'm sorry."
- 00:11:50.955 --> 00:11:52.891
- Forgiveness depends upon me. reconciliation depends upon us.
- 00:11:52.891 --> 00:11:59.097
- That's the difference between forgiveness
- 00:11:59.998 --> 00:12:02.066
- And reconciliation.
- 00:12:02.066 --> 00:12:04.903
- We've talked about the benefits of forgiveness,
- 00:12:05.837 --> 00:12:08.039
- The misunderstandings of forgiveness.
- 00:12:08.039 --> 00:12:10.675
- Now, let's talk very quickly about the steps
- 00:12:10.675 --> 00:12:14.412
- To understanding authentic forgiveness.
- 00:12:14.412 --> 00:12:17.081
- Go back to matthew 18:27.
- 00:12:17.081 --> 00:12:19.784
- "and the lord of that slave felt compassion,
- 00:12:19.784 --> 00:12:24.255
- And released him and he forgave him of the debt."
- 00:12:24.255 --> 00:12:29.594
- First of all, notice genuine forgiveness
- 00:12:30.461 --> 00:12:32.363
- Acknowledges the offense that has taken place.
- 00:12:32.363 --> 00:12:35.934
- Again, we're not asking you to ignore it, rationalize it,
- 00:12:35.934 --> 00:12:39.671
- Pretend it never happened.
- 00:12:39.671 --> 00:12:41.339
- You cannot forgive those you are not willing to blame.
- 00:12:41.339 --> 00:12:45.410
- Secondly, genuine forgiveness calculates the debt
- 00:12:45.410 --> 00:12:50.782
- That is owed to us.
- 00:12:51.249 --> 00:12:52.584
- It calculates the debt that is owed to us.
- 00:12:52.584 --> 00:12:56.888
- Isn't it interesting, jesus, in telling this story,
- 00:12:56.888 --> 00:12:59.190
- Didn't say, "hey, this slave owed the king a lot of money."
- 00:12:59.190 --> 00:13:03.294
- No, he tells exactly how much money he owed.
- 00:13:03.294 --> 00:13:06.297
- 10,000 talents of gold, $16 billion.
- 00:13:06.297 --> 00:13:11.636
- I think jesus was telling us something.
- 00:13:12.503 --> 00:13:13.438
- Before we can forgive somebody,
- 00:13:13.438 --> 00:13:15.206
- We really ought to calculate how much that person owes us
- 00:13:15.206 --> 00:13:18.910
- For what they did to us.
- 00:13:18.910 --> 00:13:20.812
- It may be a certain amount of money.
- 00:13:20.812 --> 00:13:23.314
- Or our offender may deserve a divorce for what they did.
- 00:13:23.314 --> 00:13:27.585
- They may deserve jail time for what they did.
- 00:13:28.519 --> 00:13:31.656
- They may deserve the death penalty for what they did.
- 00:13:32.724 --> 00:13:35.860
- But before you forgive somebody,
- 00:13:35.860 --> 00:13:37.562
- Don't just acknowledge that they've wronged you.
- 00:13:37.562 --> 00:13:39.597
- Calculate what they owe you, for what they've done to you.
- 00:13:39.597 --> 00:13:44.869
- You need to know what you're forgiving
- 00:13:45.703 --> 00:13:46.638
- Before you can let go of it.
- 00:13:46.638 --> 00:13:48.907
- Genuine forgiveness calculates the debt.
- 00:13:48.907 --> 00:13:51.843
- And thirdly, genuine forgiveness
- 00:13:51.843 --> 00:13:54.178
- Releases the debtor to god.
- 00:13:54.178 --> 00:13:57.615
- They don't miss this.
- 00:13:58.116 --> 00:14:00.285
- Why did that king forgive a $16 billion debt?
- 00:14:00.285 --> 00:14:04.589
- Jesus said because of compassion.
- 00:14:04.589 --> 00:14:07.392
- Obviously, i think jesus was right. it was compassion.
- 00:14:07.392 --> 00:14:11.095
- Even though he was a hardened king,
- 00:14:11.095 --> 00:14:12.797
- He felt compassion for that pitiful slave,
- 00:14:12.797 --> 00:14:15.366
- Offering to repay an unrepayable debt.
- 00:14:15.366 --> 00:14:18.536
- But i think there was something else going on here.
- 00:14:18.536 --> 00:14:20.571
- I think this king was also a pretty good businessman.
- 00:14:20.571 --> 00:14:23.908
- He knew he would never get that money back.
- 00:14:23.908 --> 00:14:26.411
- The iou he had was worthless. he was absolutely worthless.
- 00:14:26.411 --> 00:14:31.115
- So why did he want to spend the rest of his days
- 00:14:31.115 --> 00:14:33.518
- Trying to extract money from somebody
- 00:14:33.518 --> 00:14:35.320
- Who could never repay the debt?
- 00:14:35.320 --> 00:14:37.722
- So he let it go.
- 00:14:37.722 --> 00:14:39.257
- He released it, so he could get on with running the kingdom.
- 00:14:39.257 --> 00:14:43.061
- But when this slave went out,
- 00:14:43.061 --> 00:14:45.697
- And demanded payment from his fellow slave, he choked him,
- 00:14:45.697 --> 00:14:50.101
- Trying to squeeze that $16 out of him.
- 00:14:50.101 --> 00:14:54.539
- And he wouldn't let go.
- 00:14:54.539 --> 00:14:56.874
- He didn't realize that the iou he was holding
- 00:14:57.809 --> 00:15:01.913
- Was just as worthless.
- 00:15:01.913 --> 00:15:03.681
- The $16 one, as the $16 billion one.
- 00:15:03.681 --> 00:15:07.285
- This fellow slave had no more ability to repay his debt
- 00:15:07.285 --> 00:15:11.022
- As the first slave had to repay his debt.
- 00:15:11.022 --> 00:15:13.257
- The difference is this first slave didn't realize
- 00:15:13.257 --> 00:15:16.594
- He was holding a worthless iou.
- 00:15:16.594 --> 00:15:20.298
- I think the reason some of you maybe this morning
- 00:15:21.299 --> 00:15:23.368
- Are watching this broadcast,
- 00:15:23.368 --> 00:15:24.702
- You may have difficulty forgiving.
- 00:15:24.702 --> 00:15:27.372
- The reason you can't let go,
- 00:15:27.372 --> 00:15:28.840
- You keep holding onto that offense is,
- 00:15:28.840 --> 00:15:31.576
- You don't realize how worthless your iou is.
- 00:15:31.576 --> 00:15:34.345
- You still think there's something that person can do
- 00:15:34.345 --> 00:15:36.948
- To make up for what they've done to you.
- 00:15:36.948 --> 00:15:39.884
- Oh, you think,
- 00:15:39.884 --> 00:15:41.185
- "if only i could hear the words, 'i'm sorry.'"
- 00:15:41.185 --> 00:15:43.788
- The words, "i'm sorry," are highly overrated.
- 00:15:43.788 --> 00:15:46.491
- They really don't produce the relief
- 00:15:46.491 --> 00:15:48.760
- You think it's going to.
- 00:15:48.760 --> 00:15:50.928
- I mean, think about it.
- 00:15:50.928 --> 00:15:52.930
- What could anybody repay you to make up for a marriage
- 00:15:52.930 --> 00:15:57.702
- That was destroyed by adultery?
- 00:15:57.702 --> 00:15:59.837
- What could anybody do to repay you for your reputation
- 00:16:00.938 --> 00:16:03.508
- That was unfairly ruined by slander?
- 00:16:03.508 --> 00:16:06.644
- What could anybody do to make up to a parent
- 00:16:07.578 --> 00:16:11.015
- Whose child was killed by a drunk driver?
- 00:16:11.015 --> 00:16:14.819
- Letting go, forgiving,
- 00:16:15.319 --> 00:16:18.089
- Is really the only reasonable response
- 00:16:18.923 --> 00:16:22.693
- When you think about it.
- 00:16:22.693 --> 00:16:24.195
- We all hold this worthless iou. that's what happened here.
- 00:16:24.195 --> 00:16:29.067
- This fellow slave refused to forgive his friend
- 00:16:30.068 --> 00:16:34.238
- For that completely worthless debt that he was holding.
- 00:16:34.238 --> 00:16:38.342
- I'm often asked the question,
- 00:16:38.342 --> 00:16:39.877
- "is it possible to forgive somebody
- 00:16:39.877 --> 00:16:41.679
- Who never says, 'i'm sorry?'"
- 00:16:41.679 --> 00:16:44.282
- I mean, after all, pastor, don't we have to say "i'm sorry"
- 00:16:44.282 --> 00:16:48.252
- Before we receive god's forgiveness?
- 00:16:48.252 --> 00:16:50.354
- That's right, we do.
- 00:16:50.354 --> 00:16:52.457
- But people who say that miss one important point.
- 00:16:52.457 --> 00:16:55.960
- There's a difference between receiving forgiveness,
- 00:16:55.960 --> 00:16:58.362
- And granting forgiveness.
- 00:16:58.362 --> 00:17:00.298
- It's true.
- 00:17:00.298 --> 00:17:01.833
- I can only receive forgiveness from another person or god
- 00:17:01.833 --> 00:17:04.168
- If i say "i'm sorry,"
- 00:17:04.168 --> 00:17:05.736
- And open my heart to receive that gift of forgiveness.
- 00:17:05.736 --> 00:17:09.340
- But i can grant forgiveness to people
- 00:17:09.340 --> 00:17:11.909
- Whether they say "i'm sorry," or never say "i'm sorry."
- 00:17:11.909 --> 00:17:15.179
- Listen to what jesus said in mark 11:25.
- 00:17:15.179 --> 00:17:17.648
- He said, "whenever you stand praying, forgive.
- 00:17:17.648 --> 00:17:21.853
- If you have anything against anyone
- 00:17:21.853 --> 00:17:24.155
- So that your father also, who is in heaven,
- 00:17:24.155 --> 00:17:26.557
- May forgive you of your transgressions."
- 00:17:26.557 --> 00:17:28.793
- Jesus said, if you're standing,
- 00:17:28.793 --> 00:17:30.128
- Or as you are sitting in church and you think,
- 00:17:30.128 --> 00:17:33.564
- "hey, i've got something against somebody."
- 00:17:33.564 --> 00:17:37.101
- What did he say do?
- 00:17:37.101 --> 00:17:38.669
- Now this isn't the case where jesus said,
- 00:17:38.669 --> 00:17:40.671
- You're offering a sacrifice,
- 00:17:40.671 --> 00:17:42.340
- And you remember somebody has something against you.
- 00:17:42.340 --> 00:17:45.510
- In that case, you're to leave and go be reconciled to them.
- 00:17:45.510 --> 00:17:48.112
- No, this is a case
- 00:17:48.112 --> 00:17:49.413
- Where you have something against somebody else.
- 00:17:49.413 --> 00:17:51.215
- You're sitting there thinking,
- 00:17:51.215 --> 00:17:52.717
- "as pastor jeffers has been talking,
- 00:17:52.717 --> 00:17:54.218
- I remember all these people who have wronged me."
- 00:17:54.218 --> 00:17:56.954
- What are you to do about it? one word, forgive.
- 00:17:56.954 --> 00:18:00.358
- It doesn't matter if they're sitting next to you in the pew,
- 00:18:00.358 --> 00:18:04.162
- Whether they're in the next city, the next state,
- 00:18:04.162 --> 00:18:07.265
- It doesn't matter even if they're in the cemetery.
- 00:18:07.265 --> 00:18:09.734
- You can forgive them right where you are. let go of it.
- 00:18:09.734 --> 00:18:14.272
- Regardless of whether they ever ask for forgiveness or not.
- 00:18:14.272 --> 00:18:18.009
- Why is that so important to do?
- 00:18:18.643 --> 00:18:20.378
- Because if you don't forgive that person,
- 00:18:20.378 --> 00:18:23.581
- You are tied to them forever.
- 00:18:23.581 --> 00:18:25.816
- You've made your future dependent upon their future.
- 00:18:25.816 --> 00:18:30.221
- You all remember,
- 00:18:30.221 --> 00:18:31.656
- Did you ever go to those kind of old-fashioned picnics
- 00:18:31.656 --> 00:18:33.858
- That we used to have more of,
- 00:18:33.858 --> 00:18:36.093
- And where they would have a contest,
- 00:18:36.093 --> 00:18:38.763
- A game called the three-legged race?
- 00:18:38.763 --> 00:18:41.432
- Did you ever participate in a three-legged race?
- 00:18:41.432 --> 00:18:43.734
- You get your right leg bound to the left leg of your partner
- 00:18:43.734 --> 00:18:47.905
- And you've got several different teams,
- 00:18:47.905 --> 00:18:49.574
- And you're trying to make it to the finish line,
- 00:18:49.574 --> 00:18:51.442
- And you're hobbling along like this?
- 00:18:51.442 --> 00:18:53.544
- You're hobbling along,
- 00:18:53.544 --> 00:18:54.845
- And if you've ever had the thought that i have,
- 00:18:54.845 --> 00:18:56.647
- You probably have thought at some point in that,
- 00:18:56.647 --> 00:18:58.616
- "if only i could get loose from this nitwit,
- 00:18:58.616 --> 00:19:01.052
- I could go a lot farther, and a lot faster,
- 00:19:01.052 --> 00:19:03.254
- And win the contest!"
- 00:19:03.254 --> 00:19:05.690
- But you see,
- 00:19:06.023 --> 00:19:07.391
- Three-legged races don't allow for solo contenders.
- 00:19:07.391 --> 00:19:10.628
- The fact is, when you're bound to somebody else,
- 00:19:10.628 --> 00:19:13.364
- You can go only as fast, and as far,
- 00:19:13.364 --> 00:19:16.500
- As they're willing to travel.
- 00:19:16.500 --> 00:19:18.703
- Now listen to me.
- 00:19:18.703 --> 00:19:19.870
- When you make forgiving another person
- 00:19:19.870 --> 00:19:22.039
- Dependent on what they do,
- 00:19:22.039 --> 00:19:23.708
- It's like you're emotionally tying yourself
- 00:19:23.708 --> 00:19:26.677
- To that other person.
- 00:19:26.677 --> 00:19:28.279
- If you're saying,
- 00:19:28.279 --> 00:19:29.714
- "i can't forgive them until they say 'i'm sorry.'"
- 00:19:29.714 --> 00:19:31.315
- Then you can go no further in life, no more quickly in life,
- 00:19:31.315 --> 00:19:34.919
- Than they're willing, or unwilling to go.
- 00:19:34.919 --> 00:19:37.655
- But forgiveness is the process
- 00:19:38.289 --> 00:19:40.091
- By which i untie myself from my offender.
- 00:19:40.091 --> 00:19:44.795
- When i say, if not to them, then directly to god,
- 00:19:44.795 --> 00:19:47.765
- "i no longer want to be bound to this other person.
- 00:19:47.765 --> 00:19:50.935
- I'm letting go of the hurt that they've committed against me
- 00:19:50.935 --> 00:19:54.305
- So that i can be free to live the life
- 00:19:54.305 --> 00:19:56.941
- That god has planned for me.
- 00:19:56.941 --> 00:19:59.010
- Today, i am letting go.
- 00:19:59.010 --> 00:20:00.444
- I'm unbinding myself,
- 00:20:00.444 --> 00:20:02.113
- So that i can go where god wants me to go."
- 00:20:02.113 --> 00:20:05.549
- Remember that first slave?
- 00:20:06.117 --> 00:20:08.452
- Because he didn't forgive, he was put into the prison,
- 00:20:08.452 --> 00:20:11.289
- The torturer's house,
- 00:20:11.289 --> 00:20:13.291
- Where he was tormented day and night forever and ever.
- 00:20:13.291 --> 00:20:16.260
- When you refuse to forgive, until somebody does something,
- 00:20:16.260 --> 00:20:20.364
- You're going through mental, emotional,
- 00:20:21.198 --> 00:20:23.067
- And spiritual torture, just waiting for them to free you.
- 00:20:23.067 --> 00:20:26.971
- No, you need to be free of that other person.
- 00:20:26.971 --> 00:20:29.707
- Louis mead said, "when we forgive, we set the prisoner free.
- 00:20:29.707 --> 00:20:35.079
- And the prisoner we set free is us."
- 00:20:35.880 --> 00:20:38.282
- That's the practical reason to forgive.
- 00:20:38.282 --> 00:20:41.419
- But the greater reason is the spiritual reason.
- 00:20:41.419 --> 00:20:44.955
- As jesus said, "if you don't forgive others,
- 00:20:44.955 --> 00:20:48.225
- God will not forgive you."
- 00:20:48.225 --> 00:20:50.161
- Pastor, i don't understand that.
- 00:20:50.161 --> 00:20:52.396
- Are you saying that we earn our forgiveness
- 00:20:52.396 --> 00:20:54.899
- By forgiving other people?
- 00:20:54.899 --> 00:20:56.334
- Of course not.
- 00:20:56.334 --> 00:20:57.601
- Paul said, "for by grace, god's grace,
- 00:20:57.601 --> 00:20:59.637
- You have been saved through faith.
- 00:20:59.637 --> 00:21:00.971
- And that not of yourselves, it is a gift of god,
- 00:21:00.971 --> 00:21:03.407
- Not of works lest than any man should boast."
- 00:21:03.407 --> 00:21:06.243
- Well then, pastor, are you saying that if we don't forgive,
- 00:21:06.243 --> 00:21:08.846
- We lose our salvation?
- 00:21:08.846 --> 00:21:10.815
- Not saying that either.
- 00:21:10.815 --> 00:21:12.283
- Romans 11:29 says, "the gifts of god are irrevocable."
- 00:21:12.283 --> 00:21:16.954
- God doesn't take away what he's given as a gift.
- 00:21:16.954 --> 00:21:20.157
- Then what are you saying, pastor?
- 00:21:20.157 --> 00:21:22.126
- What i'm saying is, if you find yourself saying
- 00:21:23.060 --> 00:21:26.630
- What i hear many people in the church saying,
- 00:21:26.630 --> 00:21:29.500
- "i cannot forgive. i cannot forgive.
- 00:21:29.500 --> 00:21:33.471
- I will not forgive!"
- 00:21:33.471 --> 00:21:36.640
- It doesn't mean you lose your salvation.
- 00:21:37.508 --> 00:21:39.844
- It means you never had salvation to begin with.
- 00:21:40.778 --> 00:21:44.181
- Because somebody who has truly received god's forgiveness,
- 00:21:45.349 --> 00:21:50.721
- Who has understood the magnitude of his own sin,
- 00:21:51.689 --> 00:21:54.258
- That $16 billion debt,
- 00:21:54.258 --> 00:21:57.795
- Will naturally forgive somebody of a much less offense
- 00:21:58.829 --> 00:22:03.501
- Than we've committed against god.
- 00:22:03.501 --> 00:22:05.669
- Forgiveness is the obligation of those who have forgiven.
- 00:22:06.837 --> 00:22:10.307
- Paul said it this way in ephesians 4:32.
- 00:22:10.307 --> 00:22:13.711
- "be kind to one another, tenderhearted,
- 00:22:13.711 --> 00:22:17.448
- Forgiving one another,
- 00:22:17.448 --> 00:22:19.617
- Just as god in christ has forgiven you."
- 00:22:19.617 --> 00:22:25.423
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:22:25.756 --> 00:22:30.094
- There are great physical and emotional benefits
- 00:22:31.028 --> 00:22:33.864
- To forgiveness,
- 00:22:33.864 --> 00:22:35.366
- But they pale in comparison to the spiritual benefits.
- 00:22:35.366 --> 00:22:39.236
- Jesus said,
- 00:22:39.236 --> 00:22:40.704
- "for if you forgive others for their transgressions,
- 00:22:40.704 --> 00:22:42.940
- Your heavenly father will also forgive you.
- 00:22:42.940 --> 00:22:45.910
- But if you do not forgive others,
- 00:22:45.910 --> 00:22:48.646
- Then your heavenly father
- 00:22:48.646 --> 00:22:50.047
- Will not forgive your transgressions."
- 00:22:50.047 --> 00:22:53.684
- This powerful truth about forgiveness
- 00:22:53.684 --> 00:22:55.986
- Is just one example of the life-changing messages
- 00:22:55.986 --> 00:22:59.390
- We're privileged to share every day on "pathway to victory."
- 00:22:59.390 --> 00:23:03.661
- And i want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you
- 00:23:03.661 --> 00:23:07.064
- Who faithfully supports this ministry.
- 00:23:07.064 --> 00:23:09.967
- Your partnership enables us to reach countless people
- 00:23:09.967 --> 00:23:13.304
- With god's word,
- 00:23:13.304 --> 00:23:14.738
- Including people who are struggling with unforgiveness,
- 00:23:14.738 --> 00:23:18.209
- Bitterness, and pain.
- 00:23:18.209 --> 00:23:20.110
- Through your generosity,
- 00:23:20.110 --> 00:23:21.479
- We're able to offer them hope and freedom
- 00:23:21.479 --> 00:23:23.948
- That comes through understanding biblical forgiveness.
- 00:23:23.948 --> 00:23:27.852
- Thank you for being a part
- 00:23:27.852 --> 00:23:29.186
- Of the "pathway to victory" family.
- 00:23:29.186 --> 00:23:31.489
- Together, we're making an eternal difference.
- 00:23:31.489 --> 00:23:34.792
- Stay right there,
- 00:23:34.792 --> 00:23:36.093
- I'll be back with more "pathway to victory"
- 00:23:36.093 --> 00:23:38.629
- -in just a moment.
- 00:23:38.629 --> 00:23:42.366
- We all need god's strength to make it through the day.
- 00:23:42.366 --> 00:23:45.302
- "encouragement for the heart of a disciple"
- 00:23:45.302 --> 00:23:47.538
- By dr. robert jeffers
- 00:23:47.538 --> 00:23:49.006
- Provides the spiritual refreshment you need.
- 00:23:49.006 --> 00:23:51.842
- In a large print format,
- 00:23:51.842 --> 00:23:53.410
- Every page bursts with breathtaking imagery
- 00:23:53.410 --> 00:23:56.313
- That draws you toward the beauty of god's creation.
- 00:23:56.313 --> 00:23:59.517
- I know how challenging it can be
- 00:23:59.517 --> 00:24:01.285
- To stay connected with god in our busy lives.
- 00:24:01.285 --> 00:24:04.355
- In my new devotional, i provide personal reflections
- 00:24:04.355 --> 00:24:07.691
- And practical insights
- 00:24:07.691 --> 00:24:09.260
- That will help you experience god's presence
- 00:24:09.260 --> 00:24:11.729
- And encouragement throughout your day.
- 00:24:11.729 --> 00:24:14.431
- Filled with stunning images of creation,
- 00:24:14.431 --> 00:24:16.800
- Scripture verses, and prayers you can read
- 00:24:16.800 --> 00:24:19.036
- In under two minutes,
- 00:24:19.036 --> 00:24:20.604
- This padded hardcover book is the perfect daily companion
- 00:24:20.604 --> 00:24:23.774
- To help refresh your spirit, morning and night.
- 00:24:23.774 --> 00:24:26.844
- It also makes a thoughtful gift
- 00:24:26.844 --> 00:24:28.512
- To encourage a friend or loved one.
- 00:24:28.512 --> 00:24:30.514
- Request your copy of
- 00:24:30.514 --> 00:24:31.815
- "encouragement for the heart of a disciple"
- 00:24:31.815 --> 00:24:34.051
- When you give a generous gift
- 00:24:34.051 --> 00:24:35.519
- To support the ministry of "pathway to victory,"
- 00:24:35.519 --> 00:24:38.188
- Or when you become a pathway partner.
- 00:24:38.188 --> 00:24:40.724
- With your ministry gift of $100 or more,
- 00:24:40.724 --> 00:24:43.727
- We'll send you the encouragement resource set,
- 00:24:43.727 --> 00:24:46.230
- Containing the new devotional,
- 00:24:46.230 --> 00:24:47.932
- Six clutter-free prayer cards,
- 00:24:47.932 --> 00:24:49.900
- The clutter-free christianity book
- 00:24:49.900 --> 00:24:51.835
- And life application guide,
- 00:24:51.835 --> 00:24:53.470
- And the seven marks of a disciple message series
- 00:24:53.470 --> 00:24:56.574
- On both cd and dvd.
- 00:24:56.574 --> 00:24:58.576
- Thank you for supporting "pathway to victory."
- 00:24:58.576 --> 00:25:01.111
- Your generous partnership helps us impact you
- 00:25:01.111 --> 00:25:03.814
- And your family, and a nation in deep spiritual need
- 00:25:03.814 --> 00:25:07.084
- With the transforming truth of god's word.
- 00:25:07.084 --> 00:25:11.288
- Forgiveness is the obligation of those
- 00:25:12.122 --> 00:25:14.558
- Who have truly been forgiven.
- 00:25:14.558 --> 00:25:17.161
- And i hope today's message has helped you take a step
- 00:25:17.161 --> 00:25:19.964
- Toward that freedom.
- 00:25:19.964 --> 00:25:21.966
- Well, next time, we're going to conclude our series
- 00:25:21.966 --> 00:25:24.501
- On the "seven marks of a disciple"
- 00:25:24.501 --> 00:25:26.670
- With the final study about the "first mark of a disciple."
- 00:25:26.670 --> 00:25:30.741
- You see, everything we've covered so far,
- 00:25:30.741 --> 00:25:33.177
- Like prayer, trust, and forgiveness, requires our effort.
- 00:25:33.177 --> 00:25:37.948
- But a regenerate heart, well,
- 00:25:37.948 --> 00:25:40.217
- That's something only god can give.
- 00:25:40.217 --> 00:25:42.820
- Stay tuned for a preview
- 00:25:42.820 --> 00:25:44.088
- Of what's coming up next in our series,
- 00:25:44.088 --> 00:25:46.323
- "seven marks of a disciple."
- 00:25:46.323 --> 00:25:49.093
- Salvation is something god does for us.
- 00:25:49.893 --> 00:25:52.229
- We can't do for ourselves.
- 00:25:52.229 --> 00:25:53.564
- That is completely an act of god.
- 00:25:53.564 --> 00:25:56.066
- For by grace, you have been saved through faith,
- 00:25:56.066 --> 00:25:58.969
- That not of yourselves, it is a gift of god,
- 00:25:58.969 --> 00:26:01.305
- Not of works lest any man should boast.
- 00:26:01.305 --> 00:26:04.041
- Salvation is god's work alone.
- 00:26:04.041 --> 00:26:06.777
- But the transformation of our heart
- 00:26:06.777 --> 00:26:08.946
- Is a joint work between god and us after we're saved.
- 00:26:08.946 --> 00:26:13.150
- Without god, we cannot transform our hearts.
- 00:26:13.150 --> 00:26:16.553
- Without us, god will not transform our hearts.
- 00:26:16.553 --> 00:26:20.257
- Set your dvr and join us next time
- 00:26:20.257 --> 00:26:22.559
- For a message called "developing a regenerate heart,"
- 00:26:22.559 --> 00:26:25.729
- Here on "pathway to victory."
- 00:26:25.729 --> 00:26:28.899
- Experience the beauty of alaska with the
- 00:26:29.733 --> 00:26:32.036
- Pathway to victory family
- 00:26:32.036 --> 00:26:33.904
- June 13-20, 2026
- 00:26:33.904 --> 00:26:36.607
- Sail through the calm waters of the
- 00:26:36.607 --> 00:26:38.676
- Legendary inside passage, with
- 00:26:38.676 --> 00:26:40.577
- Dr. robert jeffress aboard holland america's
- 00:26:40.577 --> 00:26:42.813
- Magnificent koningsdam
- 00:26:42.813 --> 00:26:44.415
- Be inspired by award-winning musician
- 00:26:44.415 --> 00:26:47.051
- Michael o'brien's powerful worship
- 00:26:47.051 --> 00:26:49.186
- Share laughter with dennis swanberg
- 00:26:49.186 --> 00:26:51.188
- America's minister of encouragement
- 00:26:51.188 --> 00:26:53.457
- All while exploring frontier towns like
- 00:26:53.457 --> 00:26:56.093
- Juneau, skagway and ketchikan
- 00:26:56.093 --> 00:26:58.228
- There's something powerful about connecting with god
- 00:26:58.228 --> 00:27:01.498
- And fellow believers in the majesty of his
- 00:27:01.498 --> 00:27:04.168
- Untammed wilderness
- 00:27:04.168 --> 00:27:05.703
- From the majestic glaciers, to soaring eagles
- 00:27:05.703 --> 00:27:09.073
- These moments in god's creation will
- 00:27:09.073 --> 00:27:11.175
- Deepen your faith in powerful ways
- 00:27:11.175 --> 00:27:14.011
- Join us for a spiritual journey
- 00:27:14.011 --> 00:27:15.779
- Through some of creation's most spectaculer displays
- 00:27:15.779 --> 00:27:18.982
- Don't wait, our best cabins are going fast
- 00:27:18.982 --> 00:27:21.418
- Secure your alaska adventure now
- 00:27:21.418 --> 00:27:23.854
- Call 888-280-6747,
- 00:27:23.854 --> 00:27:26.857
- Or visit ptv.org.
- 00:27:26.857 --> 00:27:29.026
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:27:29.026 --> 00:27:29.026
