1. Understanding the Stakes
How does the reality of the “Day of the Lord” shape the way we think about sin and forgiveness?
- Why is it important that God is both just and merciful?
- How does this challenge common views of God today?
2. Personal Reflection on Sin
The sermon emphasizes that “all have sinned” and owe a debt—how should this affect the way we see ourselves?
- Do you tend to compare yourself to “worse” sinners? Why?
- How does acknowledging your own debt change your posture before God?
3. The Cross and Forgiveness
What does Jesus’ death on the cross teach us about the nature and cost of forgiveness?
- Why is it significant that Jesus says, “Father, forgive them” while being crucified?
- How does the cross remove excuses like “God could never forgive me”?
4. Forgiving Others as Evidence of Faith
According to Matthew 6 and the parable in Matthew 18, why is forgiving others not optional for Christians?
- What does it reveal about our understanding of God’s forgiveness?
- Are there situations where you find it especially difficult to forgive? Why?
5. Living It Out Practically
Which of the application points (rehearse the gospel, don’t take vengeance, refuse petty offenses) do you most need to grow in right now?
- What would it look like this week to take a concrete step toward forgiveness?
- How can the group help hold each other accountable in this?