2

When I want to forgive someone do I have to tell them or can I just tell God?



    
    

Clarify Share Report Asked May 09 2016 Mini Anonymous

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

6
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
I think that telling the other party personally is something that should be done if possible, but it is not essential. Jesus counseled believers to go personally to someone who sins against them as the first step toward being reconciled (Matthew 18:15), but circumstances might not always allow that.

To me, the important consideration is to genuinely forgive the other person, with no residual bitterness or anger toward them (just as God puts away our sins in forgiving us (Psalm 103:12)), and then to witness to that forgiveness by our words and actions in any subsequent dealings we may have with them, or in our conversation about them with others. 

From the cross, Jesus asked the Father to forgive those involved in putting Him to death (Luke 23:34), but He did not convey that forgiveness to each specific individual.

May 09 2016 1 response Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining