How to Forgive Someone Who Never Apologized

About this sermon

Why is forgiveness so hard? When someone hurts us, our first instinct is often revenge. We want the “big payback.” In this powerful message, we explore what Jesus teaches about forgiveness through Matthew 18:21–35, where Peter asks Jesus how many times we should forgive someone who sins against us. Many of us can relate to the feeling James Brown captured in his famous song “The Big Payback.” When people betray us, spread rumors, break our trust, or deeply wound us, our natural response is to get even. But Jesus flips that mindset upside down. Instead of revenge, followers of Christ are called to a life of radical forgiveness. In this sermon, we unpack the powerful parable of the unforgiving servant and what it reveals about our relationship with God and with others. Jesus shows that forgiveness is not optional for believers—it’s essential. If we want healthy relationships, strong marriages, peaceful workplaces, and thriving families, we must learn to forgive. You’ll discover the truth about what biblical forgiveness really means and what it does NOT mean. Forgiveness is not pretending the pain didn’t happen. It’s not forgetting the offense. It’s not even reconciliation in every case. Instead, forgiveness is the decision to cancel the debt someone owes you and release them from what you believe they owe. This message also explains why unforgiveness harms us spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. Holding on to resentment can torture the soul, while forgiveness brings freedom, healing, and restoration. If you've ever struggled with anger, betrayal, bitterness, or difficult relationships, this message will challenge and encourage you to experience the freedom that comes through the forgiveness Jesus modeled on the cross. Remember: Heaven is filled with forgiven people, not perfect people. Watch now and learn how to release the burden of unforgiveness and step into the freedom God has for you. We are Community Bible Church located in San Antonio, Texas. You may be brand new and want to explore what we are about, or you may have been with us a while but want to learn more. Either way, we are glad you are here! To learn more about Community Bible Church, visit http://www.communitybible.com To connect with us socially: Facebook - https://cbc.social/facebook Twitter - https://cbc.social/twitter Instagram - https://cbc.social/instagram Online Church is a ministry of Community Bible Church. We gather at http://OnlineChurch.com and enjoy good music and a message. We have services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We hope you will find a service or several services that work for you and join us at Online Church. To connect with us socially: Facebook - http://facebook.com/cbconline

Topics

• Forgiveness