Sermon Notes
Luke 17:1–4 NIV
1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. 2 It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble. 3 So watch yourselves.
If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. 4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.”
What happens when we hold onto unforgiveness?
• We allow it to define us.
• We allow it to shape our emotions, our thoughts, and behavior toward others.
• We can become bitter, angry, and isolated.
James 1:19–20 NIV
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
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Forgiveness isn’t just an emotional release;
it’s a spiritual transaction.
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Steps to Forgiveness
1. Glorify God
2. Get the log out of your own eye
3. Gently restore
4. Go and be reconciled
(Source: “Resolving Everyday Conflict,” Ken Sande)
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Series Resources
Dive deeper into our No Offense series with additional resources from our teaching team.
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Discussion Igniters
(1) Read Luke 17:1–4.
What does Jesus teach about forgiveness in these verses?
How does His command to forgive repeatedly challenge our natural responses to being wronged?
(2) How does understanding the difference between forgiveness and trust help us let go of resentment while still setting boundaries?
(3) What happens to our hearts and relationships when we hold onto bitterness or unforgiveness?
(4) Read Matthew 7:3–5.
Why does Jesus emphasize removing the log from our own eye before addressing the faults of others?
How does this help us approach forgiveness and reconciliation with humility?
(5) Is there someone you need to forgive, or a grudge weighing on your heart?
What is one step you can take this week to release that offense?