Jesus and Radical Forgiveness

Radical forgiveness. What does that mean? It means offering forgiveness without expecting anything in return. It means going out of your way to show kindness, even to those who have wronged you. It means giving people second chances, even when they don’t deserve it.

And it’s a concept that is at the very core of who Jesus was. Throughout His ministry, Jesus preached a message of love and forgiveness. He spoke about loving your enemies and turning the other cheek. He told parables about lost sheep and forgiving debtors. He even forgave the men who crucified Him as he was dying on the cross.

So what can we learn from Jesus about the power of radical forgiveness? Let’s take a look.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” 

Luke 23:34

1. Forgiveness is an act of love.

When we forgive someone, we are showing them that we still care about them, despite whatever wrong they may have done. We are choosing to see them as more than their mistakes. We are seeing them as human beings worthy of compassion and grace.

2. Forgiveness is an act of courage.

It takes bravery to forgive someone who has hurt you deeply. It’s easy to hold onto anger and resentment. It’s easy to seek revenge or payback. But it takes real courage to let go of those negative feelings and offer forgiveness instead.

3. Forgiveness is an act of strength.

Holding onto anger and bitterness will only make us weaker in the long run. It will poison our relationships and damage our own emotional well-being. On the other hand, forgiving those who have hurt us will make us stronger and wiser. It will help us move on from the pain of the past and focus on building a better future.

Jesus Forgave Radically

When we think about Jesus, we often think about His miracles or His teachings. But one of the most important things we can learn from Him is the power of radical forgiveness. By forgiving those who have hurt us, we are showing them that we still care about them. We are choosing to see them as human beings worthy of compassion and grace. And in doing so, we are making ourselves stronger and wiser.

Forgiveness is a Fruit of the Spirit. Ultimately, it was the example that Jesus came to show us here on earth.

Now available… Elise’s New Book on Radical Forgiveness! Sign up for our newsletter to get updates! See her last book, Holistic Wellness.