What Does the Bible Say About Forgiveness?

October 21st, 2025
by Dr. James Johnson-Hill

What Does the Bible Say About Forgiveness?

Forgiven people forgive. That’s the way of Jesus.

Forgiveness Isn't Easy - But It Is Freedom

Let’s be honest—forgiveness can feel impossible sometimes.

Whether you’re carrying the weight of your own mistakes or struggling to release someone who hurt you, forgiveness often feels more like a fight than a gift. But through Jesus, it becomes both.

At Agape, we believe forgiveness is at the core of what it means to follow Jesus. It’s not just something we receive—it’s something we extend. And it changes everything.

So, What Is Forgiveness?

Forgiveness is releasing the offense.
It’s not saying what happened was okay. It’s saying, “I won’t hold this against you anymore.”

In the Bible, forgiveness is about restoring relationship—with God, with others, and even with ourselves. It’s not about pretending the pain didn’t happen. It’s about choosing grace instead of revenge, healing instead of bitterness.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” — Psalm 103:12

God Forgives Us—Fully and Freely

God’s forgiveness isn’t earned. It’s gifted through Jesus.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us…” — 1 John 1:9

Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are completely forgiven—not partially, not temporarily. Fully.

“He was pierced for our transgressions… and by His wounds we are healed.” — Isaiah 53:5

Jesus didn’t just talk about forgiveness—He embodied it. Even from the cross:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” — Luke 23:34

We’re Called to Forgive, Too

That’s the hard part, right?

But Jesus is clear: forgiven people are forgiving people.

“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
“If you do not forgive others… your Father will not forgive your sins.” — Matthew 6:15

Forgiveness isn’t about pretending you weren’t hurt. It’s about trusting God with the justice—and choosing freedom over bitterness.

Bible Verses About Forgiveness

Here are a few verses that speak to the power and purpose of forgiveness:

Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Mark 11:25 – “If you hold anything against anyone, forgive them…”
2 Corinthians 5:18 – “God… gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
John 13:35 – “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”

How Do I Ask God for Forgiveness?

You don’t have to earn His grace—just come honestly.

1. Acknowledge the sin

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

2. Confess it to God

“I will confess my transgressions to the Lord—and You forgave the guilt of my sin.” — Psalm 32:5

3. Turn away from it

“Repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…” — Acts 3:19

4. Trust in Jesus

“Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” — Hebrews 9:22

The cross is proof that nothing you’ve done is beyond God’s mercy. Come to Him. His arms are open.

Why Forgiveness Matters

Forgiveness Heals You

Holding onto hurt only weighs you down. Forgiveness doesn’t erase the pain—it releases its grip.

“Come to Me… and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

Forgiveness Restores

God forgave us to restore relationship. Now, He invites us to do the same with others.

“He… gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:18

Forgiveness Reveals God’s Love

When we forgive, we reflect Jesus. We show the world what grace looks like in real life.

“By this everyone will know that you are My disciples…” — John 13:35

How to Forgive Others (Even When It’s Hard)

Let’s be real—forgiveness can feel impossible. But with Jesus, nothing is off-limits.

Pray for Them

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44

Prayer shifts your heart, even if the situation doesn’t change right away.

Choose Forgiveness

It’s not a feeling—it’s a choice. A decision you may have to make over and over again.

“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13

Ask God for Strengt

You weren’t meant to do this alone. And you don’t have to.

“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13

Let Go of Revenge

Forgiveness doesn’t mean justice is ignored—it means it’s put in God’s hands.

“Do not take revenge… but leave room for God’s wrath.” — Romans 12:19

Jesus Is Forgiveness

At the heart of all forgiveness is a person: Jesus.

He took our place.
He paid our debt.
He loved us enough to die for us—and rise again so we could live free.

“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5

But with Him? You can forgive. You can be forgiven. And you can live in grace.

Final Word

So what does the Bible say about forgiveness?

It says you’re already loved.
It says you’re already forgiven through Jesus.
And it invites you to extend that same grace to others.

Forgiveness isn’t weakness—it’s freedom.

And if you’re still struggling? That’s okay. You’re not expected to get it all right. Just start with a simple prayer:

“Jesus, help me forgive. Help me receive Your forgiveness. And help me walk in freedom.”

Posted in FORGIVENESS