Christianity is about redemption.
We are washed of our wrongdoing, and we become righteous through Christ and the blood he shed on the cross.
As we walk in faith, we’re not expected to be perfect. Christ’s plan is for us to strive to live as perfectly as possible. Note those two words: as possible.
We’re human. We can only emulate Christ. We don’t have the power to become him, only to pattern ourselves after his teachings and the life he lived.
We will fail. It’s wrapped up in our humanity. Our goal is to get back up.
How about when flaws appear in our church leaders? They are human, also. In the scriptures, we’re told to forgive our brother if he wrongs us not just seven times, but seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-22). This isn’t a literal number, but something known as a Hebrewism. Seventy times seven is a cultural phrase that means lots and lots.
Seventy times seven. Those are Jesus’ words, not mine or yours. Seventy times seven, we are to forgive.
Paul speaks to the church respectfully and in full gratitude when he gives us Galatians 4:14:
“And my temptation which was in my flesh you despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.”
We’re never told what Paul’s temptation was, although it’s more accurately translated as “his trial.” What we do know is that he didn’t let it impact his ministry for Christ, and the church at Galatia accepted Paul and what he preached with whole-hearted enthusiasm.
We should be as generous with our church leaders. Seventy times seven. It means to offer forgiveness a lot.
When Christ offers us forgiveness, how can we not do the same for those around us?
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Code: FGO.F.21.17b.vp.kjv