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Study 12 of 18

Are My Sins Forgiven?

God's profound mercy in forgiving our massive debt leads to the reproduction of His character in us.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

This final session in this part tackles the assurance of forgiveness and the deeper work of character restoration. Schofield uses the parable of the unmerciful servant to illustrate the vast debt of sin that God has forgiven. While many rejoice in the initial day of forgiveness, the Lord seeks to go deeper, preparing a people who reveal His character to the world. The session explains that man, originally created in God's image, was "recreated" in the image of Satan through transgression. True forgiveness involves more than just a legal transaction; it is the revelation of God's mercy that transforms the heart. As we contemplate the depth of the debt we could never pay, we are moved to compassion and led to a point where Christ's image is perfectly reproduced in us. This reproduction is the prerequisite for His second coming.

Key points

  • The debt of sin we owe is so vast (10,000 talents) that we can never pay it.
  • God's forgiveness is moved by compassion and is a free gift to those who ask.
  • The ultimate goal of forgiveness is the perfect reproduction of Christ's image in His people.
  • Refusing to forgive others reveals that we have not truly understood God's forgiveness toward us.

Key texts

  • Matthew 18:23-27
  • Psalm 103:12
  • 1 John 1:9

From the book

Chapter 12 · Matthew 18 · Read this chapter

  • “He has not come yet because His image has not been perfectly reproduced.” (ch. 12)
  • “The Lord is preparing a people who will reveal His character to the world.” (ch. 12)
  • “This is a parable that shows us how profound the mercy of God is toward sinners.” (ch. 12)

Put it into practice

  • Acknowledge the magnitude of my debt of sin that God has already forgiven.
  • Examine my heart for any unforgiving spirit toward others.
  • Ask God to reproduce His character of mercy and compassion in me.
  1. Doctrinal Clarity

    1. What does the 10,000 talent debt represent in the parable?

  2. Comprehension

    2. Why has Jesus not yet returned for His people?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. How was man's image changed after the fall?

  4. Scripture

    4. What was the lord's reaction when the servant asked for patience?

  5. Comprehension

    5. What is the prerequisite for Christ claiming His people as His own?

  6. Contrast

    6. What does it mean to be 'free from dross' in the Christian experience?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. How does the revelation of God's mercy affect the sinner?

  8. Application

    8. When you consider that God has forgiven you '10,000 talents,' how does that change your attitude toward someone who owes you '100 pence'?