A Faith to Forgive Discussion Guide

DISCUSSION GUIDE - Got questions about the sermon? Want to understand the Scripture behind it? Our discussion guides are great for groups or 1-on-1 exploration. Take the message home and unlock deeper Biblical knowledge. There is a new short discussion guide for each week available after the service.

 

Discussion Guide: Learning to Forgive Like Joseph

Key Theme: The power of forgiveness and learning how to release bitterness in light of God's grace.

Opening Icebreaker

• Briefly share about a time you found it difficult to forgive someone. No need to share specifics unless comfortable. Focus on the internal struggle you may have felt.

Review & Reflection

• Summarize the key points from the sermon:
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  • Joseph's story: betrayal, unfair treatment, yet he finds the strength to forgive.
  • Our hurts can feel like "knots" that tangle us up, forgiveness is untangling those.
  • Biblical foundation for forgiveness: God's forgiveness for us compels us to extend the same to others.
  • Forgiveness: definition, and what it's NOT (forgetting, automatic reconciliation).
  • How to start forgiving like Joseph.

Discussion Questions

1. In your experience, what makes forgiveness so difficult? (Feel free to share examples, but keep it respectful).
2. How does your understanding of God's forgiveness in your OWN life shape your motivation to forgive others? Are there times when you've struggled with that connection?
3. "Forgiveness is a process, not a single event." What does this mean to you? Can you share moments on your own journey where this has been true?
4. Is there a specific hurt or person you are finding it hard to forgive? (No one needs to disclose this if they're not ready) How might the steps of "Name the Hurt Honestly," "Release the Debt," and "Pray for Change" apply without feeling overwhelming?

Application Time

• Choose ONE of the following to focus on for the coming week...
  • Honestly NAME a hurt: Journal or pray about it, being as specific as you can without reliving the trauma.
  • Begin to RELEASE: Write down or say out loud, "I choose to release bitterness towards [situation or person]."
  • PRAY for change: Pray briefly for God's healing in your heart, and also wisdom if dealing with the person who hurt you.