Week 2: Faithful To Forgive

December 5 & 8

  • Forgiveness is a promise.

  • 1 John 1:9

  • True confession aligns our perspective on sin with God’s perspective.

  • Confession allows us to step into the freedom of grace.

  • 1 John 1:9

  • God’s forgiveness is rooted in his character…not ours.

  • Jesus absorbed the penalty for our sin, satisfying God’s justice, so forgiveness could flow freely.

  • 1 John 1:9

  • Forgiveness cancels the debt.

  • Cleansing removes the stain.

  • Psalm 51:7

  • Forgiveness isn’t just transactional…it’s relational.

  • Confession is not about earning forgiveness, but about stepping into the forgiveness already provided through Christ.

  • Forgiveness comes with a cost.

  • Luke 2:11

  • Philippians 2:6-8

  • The manger shows us the humility of God, while the cross shows us the love of God.

  • Forgiveness demands a response.

  • We receive forgiveness.

  • We extend forgiveness.

  • Forgiven people forgive.


[d]Group questions

  1. What are some examples of visible or invisible “scars” in your life? How have they shaped your relationship with God or others? How does it feel to think about God’s ability to heal those scars?

  2. Read 1 John 1:9. Why do you think confession is such an essential step in receiving forgiveness? What makes confession difficult at times?

  3. How does understanding that forgiveness is rooted in God’s character, not your performance, change the way you view your past mistakes or failures?

  4. Forgiveness is both a gift to receive and a call to extend. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? How can reflecting on God’s forgiveness for you help you take that step?

  5. Luke 2:11 calls Jesus “Savior.” How does connecting the manger to the cross deepen your appreciation for Christmas? How can this perspective impact how you celebrate this season?