Forgive Others

Paul anchors his instructions about anger in the power of the gospel. The Ephesian believers don't forgive because others deserve it or because forgiving feels natural. They forgive because they've been forgiven. Through Jesus's death on the cross, God has paid for all their sin—past, present and future (Ephesians 1:7). This isn't something they’ve earned or deserved. It’s pure grace. Now, grounded in their identity as forgiven, beloved, treasured and adopted children of God, they can extend that same forgiveness to others who wrong them...