Sermon Recap
On this leg of the Narrow Way journey, the message focused on forgiveness—a foundational mark of those who follow Jesus. Rooted in the story of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem during Passover, we are reminded that Jesus came as the perfect, spotless Lamb to offer forgiveness for all humanity. The crowd that cheered “Hosanna!” would, within days, cry out “Crucify Him!”—yet Jesus still chose to lay down His life for them and for us. Forgiveness was always the plan, etched in God’s heart since the fall of Adam and Eve. The cross was the payment for our sin, and by Jesus' blood, we are freely forgiven—not because we deserved it, but because God loved us enough to make a way back to Him.
The message challenged believers to not only receive this gift of forgiveness but to extend it to others. Through Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18, we see that those who have been forgiven much are called to forgive much. While forgiveness never denies the pain caused, it breaks the bondage of bitterness and offers a path to healing and possible reconciliation. Forgiveness is not a weakness, nor does it make light of offense—it is a courageous act sourced by the Holy Spirit, enabling us to release the need for revenge and walk in the freedom Jesus died to give us.
Ultimately, the sermon reminded us that forgiveness is not about the other person—it’s about our heart posture, our freedom, and our ability to walk the Narrow Way in step with Jesus. Unforgiveness poisons the soul and blocks the flow of God’s Spirit in our lives. But when we, like Jesus, choose to forgive—even when it's undeserved—we reflect His heart to the world and reclaim the narrative of our lives from those who have hurt us. Forgiveness isn’t free—it will cost us something. But it offers something far greater in return: freedom, healing, and the fullness of life that can only be found on the Narrow Way with Jesus.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
How does understanding God’s forgiveness toward you shape the way you view forgiving others—even those who have deeply hurt you?
What are some reasons we struggle to forgive, and how can we invite the Holy Spirit into those specific areas of resistance?
In what ways has unforgiveness taken up “real estate” in your mind or heart, and what might freedom look like if you chose to release it to Jesus?
Jesus forgave those who cheered Him one day and crucified Him the next. How can His example guide you when forgiveness feels impossible?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the forgiveness You freely gave through Jesus.
Even when I didn’t deserve it, You chose to love me, forgive me, and call me Your own.
Help me now to forgive others as You have forgiven me.
I surrender the hurt, the anger, and the need for revenge.
Holy Spirit, give me the strength to let go and the courage to walk in freedom.
Heal the places in my heart that are broken and teach me to live on the Narrow Way.
Make my life a reflection of Your mercy and grace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Life Application
Name the Hurt & Invite the Healer:
Take time this week to write down one person or situation where unforgiveness has taken root. Bring it honestly before God in prayer—ask the Holy Spirit to help you surrender your need for revenge and begin the journey toward forgiveness.
Practice Forgiveness as a Choice, Not a Feeling:
Choose to speak out forgiveness over that person (even if your emotions haven’t caught up yet). Say: “I choose to forgive ___ for ___. I release them into God’s hands.” Repeat this daily and trust the Holy Spirit to soften your heart over time.
Don’t Forget
Easter service times are 8:30//10:00//11:30
Baptism service May 4th @6:00pm
Starting Point class starts May 4th @10:00am
Additional Resources
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