A Better You on Purpose
Biblical Writings – 5
Forgiveness of the Offender – 2 Corinthians 2:5-11
5 But if someone has caused [all this] sorrow, he has caused it not to me, but in some degree—not to put it too severely—[he has distressed and grieved] all of you. 6 For such a one this punishment by the majority is sufficient, 7 so instead [of further rebuke, now] you should rather [graciously] forgive and comfort and encourage him, to keep him from being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8 Therefore I urge you to reinstate him in your affections and reaffirm your love for him. 9 For this was my purpose in writing, to see if you would stand the test, whether you are obedient and committed to following my instruction in all things. 10 If you forgive anyone anything, I too forgive [that one]; and what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of [and with the approval of] Christ, 11 to keep Satan from taking advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his schemes.
The Revelation
Verse 5–11: PUNISHMENT AND PARDON Since the church’s disciplinary action against the offending Christian has led to his repentance, now is the time to forgive him and restore him into the fellowship. Failure to do this will play into Satan’s hands.
Let go and forgive those that may offend you. To hold on may cause you to lash back, which is room for Satan to quickly move in. Replace the mishap with LOVE, not for the offender but for yourself.
