Experiencing The Power & Freedom of Forgiveness
Pastor Doug Heisel – March 29, 2026
Luke 23:33-35 — When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.”
I Peter 2:23-24 — When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly. “He Himself bore our sins” in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by His wounds you have been healed.”
Two Truths About Forgiveness
1. Forgiveness is not a PASSIVE retreat. It is an OFFENSIVE weapon against TOXIC, emotions that can poison your soul and sabotage your future.
2 Corinthians 10:4 — The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
I Peter 3:9 — Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
2. Forgiven people FORGIVE.
Colossians 3:13 — Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Three Places Forgiveness Must Reach:
1. Forgive your PARENTS.
2. Forgive OTHERS who have hurt or failed you.
3. Forgive YOURSELF.
Get Ready For Next Week
Make plans to join us for our Good Friday Service as we reflect on the sacrifice and love of Jesus, and then celebrate the joy and hope of the resurrection at one of our three Easter Services.
GOOD FRIDAY
April 3 – 7PM
EASTER
April 5 – 9AM • 10:45AM • 12:30PM
Sunday April 12
Save the date for special guest, Mike Foster, author of
The Seven Primal Questions: Take Control of the Hidden Forces That Drive You
Life Group Discussion & Questions
BREAKING THE ICE:
Gratitude sets the stage for so many good things. Share a few “wins” (things you’re thankful for) from the past week or two.
DIGGING IN:
Today’s topic is God’s antidote for bitterness, brokenness, and resentment. Yet many people never fully experience it. Lean into this red-letter prayer and apply it wherever the Lord leads.
Let’s start light: share a time you overreacted to something that really wasn’t that big of a deal.
Read Luke 23:33-35 and I Peter 2:23-24. Then review the two truths about forgiveness from these notes (along with the corresponding verses). Discuss any of your thoughts or questions regarding them.
Review the three places forgiveness must reach. Which one are you most drawn to right now—and why?
BRINGING IT HOME:
Forgiveness often feels irrational—just like it did when Jesus was on the cross. Choose it anyway. Walk in God’s grace, extend it to others, and watch what happens. It won’t just free you—it will speak loudly to everyone who sees it.