Colossians 3:12-14 - In this passage Paul gives two especially difficult mutuality commands: to forbear with one another and to forgive one another. These both presuppose that disagreements, discord, annoyance, frustration, burdens, pain, misunderstandings, and sins against one another both minor and major will happen between the people of Jesus’ church if we have enough proximity and intimacy. Even still, living out these commands enable us to experience and embody the gospel in uniquely powerful ways. A sermon by Cameron Heger. [Part 2 of the series "One Anothering: The Shape of Life Together in the Family of God"]
Questions for reflection: 1) Can you think of any prominent examples of forbearance or forgiveness in our culture at large? 2) What might the command to “bear with” someone you find difficult look like for you over the next few months? How might obedience to this command form you? 3) Do you find it easier to ask for forgiveness or to give forgiveness? Why do you think that is? 4) How is forgiveness different from immediate reconciliation? 5) Why is believing the forbearance and forgiveness of Jesus necessary for doing these things?
