Father, Forgive Them: How Grace Changes Everything

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What would happen if 3.3 billion professing Christians actually took Romans 12:14 seriously? "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them." According to Pastor Josh, this single principle could shut down toxic social media culture and transform every relationship in your life.

The term "Christian" began as a derogatory label for Jesus-followers who lived radically different lives from the culture around them. Yet today, many believers have assimilated to cultural norms rather than standing out. When someone talks behind our backs, lies about us, or publicly criticizes us, our instinct is to fire back. "I didn't start it, but I'll finish it" becomes our mantra, directly contradicting Jesus's example.

As Jesus hung on the cross, facing mockery and torture, his response wasn't retaliation but compassion: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." This wasn't hyperbole—it was a literal demonstration of counter-cultural living. When we understand that our battle isn't against people but against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12), and when we recognize our identity as God's children, we can trust Him to fight our battles.

The parable of the unforgiving servant powerfully illustrates this principle. A man forgiven an enormous debt refuses to forgive someone who owes him pennies in comparison. The master's rebuke feels personal: "Shouldn't you have mercy on others as I had mercy on you?" We've been forgiven infinitely more by a perfect God than anyone will ever do to us.

Breaking free from the cycle of retaliation means doing something different. It means blessing those who persecute us because we recognize who we are without Christ and who we are in Him. When we follow Jesus in this counter-cultural way, not only are we transformed, but we become a light in the darkness that draws others to Him.