1. This morning we studied the Lord's example and His teaching concerning "forgiveness." a. (Luke 23:34) Jesus asked the Father to forgive those who crucified Him. b. (Luke 17:3-4) Jesus taught His followers to forgive each other. 2. This evening we are concentrating on the statement made in Psalm 130:4 -- "there is forgiveness with the Lord." 3. The forgiveness under consideration is "redemption from iniquities" [forgiveness of sins]. 4. The first point we need to make is that . . .
Discussion:
I. MAN NEEDS FORGIVENESS
A. We need forgiveness because: 1. of sin (Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8, 10) 2. of the consequences of sin. a. Sin causes separation from God (Isaiah 59:1-2). b. The penalty for sin is death (Romans 6:23). B. David emphasized our need for forgiveness by describing himself before and after he was forgiven (Psalm 32:1-5). 1. He first showed in vs.1-2 how a forgiven person is "blessed." 2. He showed in vs.3-4 that he had not always enjoyed this blessing. 3. He showed in vs.5 how he received God's forgiveness.
II. THE BLOOD OF CHRIST MAKES FORGIVENESS POSSIBLE
A. Jesus shed His precious blood "for the remission [removal, forgiveness] of sins" (Matthew 26:27-28; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14). B. We receive "the remission of sins" when we repent and are baptized in the Lord's name (Acts 2:38; Colossians 2:12-13). C. The Lord's blood continues to provide forgiveness for His followers as we walk in the light and confess our sins (1 John 1:7, 9).
III. THE LORD'S FORGIVENESS IS SO SPECIAL THAT IT SHOULD MOTIVATE A PERSON TO SERVE HIM
A. David illustrated this principle (Psalm 51:9-13). B. The sinful woman in Luke 7:36-50 loved Jesus because He forgave her of many sins.
Conclusion:
1. Let us appreciate the progression of thought in Psalm 130. 2. The writer began with a somber tone (vs.1). 3. He concluded with a message of hope (vs.7-8). 4. The difference is revealed in vs.4 -- "there is forgiveness with the Lord." 5. The Lord's forgiveness provides hope -- let us allow that hope to lead us to extend forgiveness to others.
