If you're in relationships with human beings, they'll inevitably fail you at some point. Here’s what to do about it.
Talking Points:
- Making allowance for other people’s faults means entering relationships with the expectation that people aren’t perfect. Matthew 26:34
- Making allowance for other people’s faults means choosing to be proactive about forgiveness. Matthew 18:21-22
- Making allowance for other people’s faults is the natural response of someone who is forgiven by Jesus. Colossians 3:13
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What comes to mind when you think about someone’s faults? What’s the most recent offense against you?
- What expectations do you typically have when you enter into a relationship with someone? Is it different for different kinds of relationships?
- Read Matthew 26:34. Why do you think Jesus was so calm when he predicted Peter’s betrayal? How would you have acted toward Peter if you were in that situation?
- Read Matthew 18:21-22. Share a time when you reacted to someone with an unforgiving heart. What would “proactive forgiveness” have looked like in that situation? Do you think you could do it next time? Explain.
- Read Colossians 3:13. Why is forgiveness the natural response of a mature Christian? Why do so few Christians actually do this in daily life?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
