What Are Some Examples of Forgiveness in the Bible?

The Bible is filled with examples of forgiveness that illustrate God’s mercy and the power of grace in human relationships. Here are a few key examples:

1. Joseph Forgiving His Brothers:

   • Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery out of jealousy, but years later, when they came to Egypt seeking food during a famine, Joseph forgave them and provided for them. Genesis 50:19-21 NKJV says, "Joseph said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Now therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.' And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them."
   • Lesson: Joseph’s forgiveness is a powerful example of how God can bring good out of evil and how forgiving others can lead to reconciliation and healing.

2. The Prodigal Son and His Father:

   • In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, a young man demands his inheritance, squanders it in reckless living, and then returns home in shame. His father, however, welcomes him back with open arms and forgives him completely. Luke 15:20 NKJV says, "And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him."
   • Lesson: This parable illustrates God’s unconditional love and willingness to forgive us, no matter how far we have strayed.

3. Stephen Forgiving His Persecutors:

   • As Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was being stoned to death, he prayed for the forgiveness of those who were killing him. Acts 7:59-60 NKJV says, "And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not charge them with this sin.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
   • Lesson: Stephen’s forgiveness in the face of death reflects Christ’s own forgiveness on the cross and serves as an example of radical love and grace.

4. Jesus Forgiving Those Who Crucified Him:

   • As Jesus was crucified, He prayed for those who were responsible for His death, asking God to forgive them. Luke 23:34 NKJV says, "Then Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.'"
   • Lesson: Jesus’ forgiveness of His executioners demonstrates the depth of God’s love and the call for believers to forgive even in the most unjust circumstances.

5. Peter’s Restoration After Denying Jesus:

   • After Peter denied Jesus three times, he was deeply remorseful. After His resurrection, Jesus restored Peter by asking him three times if he loved Him, giving Peter the opportunity to reaffirm his devotion. John 21:15-17 NKJV captures this moment: "He said to him the third time, 'Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?' Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, 'Do you love Me?' And he said to Him, 'Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed My sheep.'"
   • Lesson: Jesus’ forgiveness and restoration of Peter illustrate that failure is not final and that God offers second chances to those who repent and return to Him.

These examples highlight the transformative power of forgiveness in the Bible, showing how it can lead to healing, reconciliation, and deeper faith. Forgiveness is not just an act but a reflection of God’s grace working in and through us.