Today we will talk about kjv bible verses about forgiveness. Forgiveness is at the heart of Christian teachings; it’s an essential part of our journey as we walk in the footsteps of Jesus. But often, we struggle with offering forgiveness—whether it’s to ourselves or others. It can seem daunting, especially when we remember the hurt that has been caused. However, forgiving doesn’t mean we forget the wrong; instead, it means we choose to let go of the anger and pain associated with it. Throughout the scriptures, God invites us to forgive, assuring us that through this act, we are free. As we meditate on these powerful verses, let’s keep our hearts open to the transformative power of forgiveness. Remember, forgiveness is a gift we give—not only to others but to ourselves.
kjv bible verses about forgiveness
The Call to Forgive
In the journey of faith, we see that forgiveness is not just a suggestion, but a calling for every believer. The Bible calls us to forgive others as a reflection of the forgiveness we receive from God. This means offering grace to those who have wronged us, even when it feels challenging. We might ask ourselves, why should we forgive? Well, we are reminded that forgiveness fosters healing, brings peace, and allows us to move forward. It sets our spirits free from the burdens of bitterness and resentment. Let us embrace this call and remember that, through Christ, we can find the strength to forgive, regardless of how tough it may be.
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” – Matthew 6:14-15
Mark 11:25
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” – Mark 11:25
Luke 6:37
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
Colossians 3:13
“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:32
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32
God’s Forgiveness Towards Us
Understanding God’s forgiveness is crucial to our walk of faith. He forgives us freely, without hesitation or condition. This act of grace is not based on our merit but solely on His boundless love. As we ponder over this, we recognize how significant it is for us to mirror this example. When we realize how much we need God’s forgiveness in our lives, it makes it easier for us to extend that same gift to others. God always welcomes us back with open arms, and His forgiveness is a constant reminder that we can start anew. Knowing we are forgiven encourages us to accept others’ flaws, just as we seek acceptance. Let us cherish and feel empowered by the amazing grace of being forgiven by God.
Psalms 103:12
“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” – Psalms 103:12
Isaiah 43:25
“I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” – Isaiah 43:25
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Acts 10:43
“To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.” – Acts 10:43
Romans 5:8
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Importance of Forgiving Ourselves
Often, we find it challenging to forgive ourselves. We carry shame, guilt, and regret that weigh us down. But it’s essential to understand that just as God forgives us, we too must learn to extend that grace to ourselves. The act of self-forgiveness is not about ignoring our mistakes; rather, it’s about accepting our humanity and understanding that we are works in progress. By choosing to forgive ourselves, we free our hearts to cultivate new paths of growth and hope. We are reminded in the Bible that each day offers a new chance filled with God’s mercy. So, let’s shed the heaviness of past mistakes and embrace God’s promise for a new beginning.
Psalm 34:18
“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Philippians 3:13-14
“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13-14
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” – Isaiah 1:18
Micah 7:18
“Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.” – Micah 7:18
Forgiveness and Our Relationships
Our relationships can be significantly impacted by our willingness to forgive. Disagreements and conflicts are a part of life; however, holding on to grudges can overshadow our connections with others. The Bible instructs us to forgive one another, which opens the door to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Each time we choose forgiveness, we are modeling God’s love. It allows healing and understanding to take root in our lives and creates a bond that can withstand future challenges. Let’s choose to approach our interactions with love and a spirit of forgiveness, nurturing our relationships with the same grace that we receive from God each day.
Matthew 18:21-22
“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” – Matthew 18:21-22
James 5:16
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” – James 5:16
Luke 17:3-4
“Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” – Luke 17:3-4
Romans 12:18
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” – Romans 12:18
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:31-32
Forgiveness as a Mark of Mature Faith
As we grow in our faith, forgiveness becomes a crucial indicator of our spiritual maturity. It challenges us to rise above our feelings and respond in love, even when it’s difficult. When we forgive, we become more like Christ. This transformative act places our focus on compassion rather than the wrong done to us. It’s essential to understand that forgiveness does not mean condoning actions that hurt us; rather, it signifies our choice to embrace love over bitterness. Additionally, as we practice forgiveness in our everyday lives, we reflect God’s character and His great love for humanity. Let’s aspire to see forgiveness as a beautiful gesture of faith that promotes deeper connections with God and our fellow believers.
Luke 23:34
“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” – Luke 23:34
Matthew 5:44
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” – Matthew 5:44
Romans 5:1
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:” – Romans 5:1
2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
1 John 3:14
“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.” – 1 John 3:14
Forgiving Others Like Christ Forgives Us
As believers, we are called to forgive others in the same way Christ forgives us. His forgiveness is radical and unconditional—it knows no bounds. This challenge requires us to surrender our emotions, biases, and judgments. When we contemplate how much we have been forgiven, we open our hearts to extend that grace to others. It echoes the reminder that no matter how significant the offense, we have the ability to choose forgiveness. Let’s foster the attitude of Christ in our lives by actively seeking opportunities to forgive, understanding that this action not only transforms others but also heals our spirits. As we live out this principle, we will discover true freedom and peace.
Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” – Matthew 6:12
Matthew 9:2
“And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.” – Matthew 9:2
Luke 15:20-21
“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” – Luke 15:20-21
Galatians 6:1
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1
Ephesians 1:7
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;” – Ephesians 1:7
The Healing Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness holds tremendous power in our lives, serving as a catalyst for healing. When we let go of grudges, we allow ourselves to experience liberation and renewed joy. God desires for us to live in harmony, free from the weight of past hurt. This healing process is often a journey—one that takes time and deliberate effort. The act of forgiveness can break chains of negativity and resentment, ultimately paving the way for inner peace. Releasing our ensnarements not only honors our journey but also nurtures our spiritual growth. As we embrace forgiveness, we tap into the healing power that God offers us, evolving into vessels of His love and light.
Proverbs 17:9
“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.” – Proverbs 17:9
Hebrews 12:14
“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:” – Hebrews 12:14
James 1:20
“For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” – James 1:20
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Romans 12:21
“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21
The Role of Forgiveness in Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool in our relationship with God, and forgiveness plays a crucial role in it. When we bring our requests to God, we are encouraged to have forgiving hearts. This approach not only demonstrates our obedience to His word but also opens the channels of our own forgiveness. By forgiving others as we pray, we reflect the essence of Christ’s love. It reminds us that we don’t just ask for forgiveness; we actively engage in granting it. In doing so, we connect deeper with our Creator and can authentically seek His presence in our lives. Let’s cherish prayer as a moment where we express our desires while remembering the love that comes from forgiveness.
James 5:15
“And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” – James 5:15
Matthew 5:23-24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5:23-24
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
Matthew 17:20
“And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” – Matthew 17:20
1 John 5:14
“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.” – 1 John 5:14
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these kjv Bible verses about forgiveness, it’s evident that forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of our Christian walk. We learn to forgive ourselves, others, and even the seemingly unforgivable, all while focusing on the love and grace extended by God. Practicing forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential for our growth and connection with Him and with others. By embracing forgiveness, we free ourselves from the heavy burdens of resentment, making room for peace, joy, and renewed relationships.
It’s important to remember that we are all human and imperfect, yet God’s grace meets us in our struggles. Let’s keep forgiving, keep praying, and keep creating a community filled with love and understanding. In doing so, we fulfill God’s purpose for our lives and reflect His love to the world.
May we walk in the freedom that forgiveness provides and encourage one another to do the same as we journey together in faith.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Topical Bible Verses
30 Powerful Bible Verses On Conviction (Full Commentary)