What Is Forgiveness In Christianity

Forgiveness is one of the central themes of Christianity, deeply rooted in both the teachings of Jesus Christ and the broader message of the Bible. It is not merely an act of letting go of grudges or bitterness but is deeply spiritual, transformative, and reflects the nature of God. Understanding forgiveness from a Christian perspective is crucial for anyone seeking to experience peace, healing, and a closer relationship with God.

In this post, we will explore the concept of forgiveness in Christianity, its biblical foundation, why it’s essential, and how it should be practiced.

1. Forgiveness Defined in Christianity

In Christian theology, forgiveness means releasing someone from the debt they owe for an offense, wrongdoing, or sin against you. It involves letting go of the desire for revenge, retribution, or any form of punishment and choosing to extend mercy, compassion, and love instead.

Forgiveness is not about forgetting the offense or pretending it didn’t happen, but about choosing not to hold it against the person any longer. It involves an emotional and spiritual decision to release the anger, bitterness, or resentment tied to the offense and to embrace the opportunity for reconciliation and healing.

Forgiveness is rooted in the character of God. The Bible teaches that God forgives those who repent of their sins and turn to Him, and that Christians are called to model this same forgiveness toward others.

2. Biblical Foundation of Forgiveness

The concept of forgiveness is introduced early in the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, and it culminates in the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ.

Old Testament: In the Old Testament, forgiveness was primarily expressed through the sacrificial system. When the people of Israel sinned, they would offer sacrifices to atone for their sins. This system pointed toward a greater forgiveness that would ultimately be achieved through Jesus Christ.
- Leviticus 4:20 says, “In this way the priest will make atonement for them, and they will be forgiven.”
New Testament: The New Testament focuses on the ultimate sacrifice for forgiveness—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus' work on the cross is the foundation for Christian forgiveness. His sacrificial death paid the penalty for sin, offering forgiveness to anyone who believes in Him.
- Ephesians 1:7 says, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”
Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness: Jesus Himself taught about forgiveness and modeled it throughout His life. Perhaps the most well-known teaching on forgiveness is in the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus instructs His followers to pray for forgiveness and to forgive others:
- Matthew 6:12 – “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”
Jesus also told a parable about forgiveness in Matthew 18:21-22, where Peter asks how many times one should forgive someone who sins against them. Jesus replies, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” This highlights that forgiveness should be unlimited.
The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is another powerful example of forgiveness in action, showing a father’s unconditional forgiveness of his wayward son, a reflection of God’s forgiveness for us.

3. Why Forgiveness is Essential in Christianity

Forgiveness is Commanded by God: Forgiveness is not an option for Christians—it’s a command. Jesus makes it clear in the New Testament that we must forgive others, just as God forgives us. Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
This emphasizes the reciprocal nature of forgiveness. We cannot expect God to forgive us if we are unwilling to forgive others. In fact, our refusal to forgive others hinders our relationship with God.
Forgiveness Reflects God’s Character: God is the ultimate forgiver. The Bible reveals that God, in His mercy, has forgiven the sins of humanity through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Christians are called to reflect God’s character in how they forgive others. Just as God forgives us freely and without hesitation, we are to forgive others, even when it is difficult.
Ephesians 4:32 encourages believers to forgive, saying, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Forgiveness Brings Healing and Freedom: Holding onto grudges, resentment, or bitterness harms us spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. Forgiveness frees us from the burden of anger and pain, offering healing for our hearts and minds. When we forgive, we break free from the power of the offense and release ourselves from the chains of unforgiveness.
Colossians 3:13 tells us to forgive one another, “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Forgiveness offers peace and freedom to both the one who forgives and the one who is forgiven.
Forgiveness Restores Relationships: Christianity is centered on relationships—our relationship with God and our relationships with others. Forgiveness is essential in restoring and healing broken relationships. Through forgiveness, we open the door to reconciliation, not only with others but with God.
In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus teaches that if we come to offer a gift to God but remember that someone has something against us, we are to go and be reconciled with them first. Forgiveness creates an opportunity for reconciliation, restoring both human and divine relationships.

4. How to Practice Forgiveness in Christianity

Forgive Unconditionally: As Christians, we are called to forgive regardless of whether the person asks for forgiveness or whether they deserve it. True forgiveness is not conditional. Jesus forgave those who crucified Him on the cross, even though they had not repented. Luke 23:34 says, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Similarly, we are to forgive others, even when it’s difficult.
Let Go of the Desire for Revenge: Forgiveness involves releasing our desire for vengeance. Romans 12:19 says, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Instead of holding onto anger or seeking retribution, we trust that God will handle the justice, and we let go of our own desire for revenge.
Forgive from the Heart: Forgiveness is not just about saying the words; it’s about forgiving from the heart. Matthew 18:35 warns that we must forgive from our hearts, meaning our forgiveness should be genuine and not merely a superficial act. It’s a decision to release the hurt and embrace mercy.

5. Forgiveness is a Journey

Forgiveness is not always easy, especially when the offense is deep or painful. It may take time, prayer, and the support of others. But it is essential to remember that forgiveness is a process. As we pray, seek God’s help, and practice forgiveness, we open our hearts to healing, peace, and restoration.

Jesus assures us that we are never alone in this journey. Through the Holy Spirit, God gives us the strength to forgive, even when we feel like it’s impossible. In Philippians 4:13, Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

Conclusion: Forgiveness is the Heart of the Christian Faith

In Christianity, forgiveness is not merely an act we perform; it is a way of life. It is a reflection of God's love and mercy, and it is essential for our spiritual health, relationships, and peace. By practicing forgiveness, we mirror the grace of God and open ourselves to the freedom and healing that He offers.

Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. It restores relationships, deepens our connection with God, and allows us to experience His love in profound ways. As Christians, we are called to forgive just as we have been forgiven—unconditionally, completely, and with grace.