Week 8. Forgive – Our Need

This week’s message focuses on the role of guilt/shame in understanding our need for forgiveness. Many today seek to avoid or dismiss the concept of guilt or shame, or even attempt to cover it through their own efforts. A Biblical worldview clearly names and describes the implications of the Fall—humankind’s rebellion against God and the unraveling of our world—and depicts how we are unable to rescue ourselves. As a result of this rupture, we are faced with shame and anxiety as we grapple with our own brokenness. However, the Gospel is truly good news, as it tells us Jesus doesn’t just make us righteous through His sacrifice, but is also working to bring restoration and shalom. Our forgiveness and reconciliation of one another can be seen as part of this restorative work. When we can humbly admit our need before God and receive His grace, we can more eagerly move toward each other in love.

Additional resources

• Listen to Justice: The Foundation of a Christian Approach to Abuse
• Read Justice: The Foundation of a Christian Approach to Abuse
• Download Reading Plan