FORGIVENESS

                                                          Matthew 18:21-35 (719)

  Introduction

        A.  Have you ever needed to forgive someone?  What attitude did you have?

        B.  Questions:

        C.  The apostle Peter asked the Lord a question about forgiveness.  Matthew 18:21-35

        D.  Let’s focus on the quantity, the necessity and the quality of forgiveness.

   I.  The ____________ of forgiveness. Vv21-22

       A.  The Jewish tradition of forgiveness:  up to three times.

       B.  The generosity of Peter: up to seven times.

       C.  The teaching of Jesus about forgiveness:  seventy times seven (unlimited).

       D.  We should practice the __ ________ principle every time.

  II.  The ___________ of forgiveness.  Matthew 18:23-35

       A.  Parable about forgiveness

             1.  A king forgave an official a debt of ten thousand talents (about $10 million).

             2.  This official would not forgive a fellow official for a debt of about $17.00.

             3.  Learning principle:

III.  The ______________ of forgiveness.  Matthew 18:35; Ephesians 4:32 (865)

       A.  Forgiveness from the _________.  With sincerity and love.

  Conclusion

       A.  Questions:  How many times should I forgive when I am asked? ______________.

             Do I see the necessity of forgiving? _______.  Is my forgiveness motivated by

             love?  _____________.