Freedom of forgiveness

Topics: forgiveness, freedom

I. Freedom of a restored relationship

1. How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit! (Psalm 32:1, 2).
2. Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favor, but as what is due. But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness, just as David also speaks of the blessing on the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: "Blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not take into account" (Romans 4:4-8).

II. Freedom of a restored fellowship

1. When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer. Selah (Psalm 32:3, 4).
2. If we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:7-9).
3. I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I did not hide; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord"; and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah. Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found; surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him. You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah (Psalm 32:5-7).

III. Freedom of a restored obedience

1. I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, otherwise they will not come near to you (Psalm 32:8, 9).
2. Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but he who trusts in the Lord, lovingkindness shall surround him. Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones; and shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart (Psalm 32:10, 11).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, January 22^nd, 2023

Life group flow and discussion questions

Freedom of forgiveness

An important Guideline of Life Groups: It is vital that people understand the difference between our relationship with God and our fellowship with God. Discuss the distinction of each and how we can enjoy a growing intimacy with our God.

Getting Started:

1. Are you"happy" in an unquestionable and restored relationship with God?
2. What is your understanding of God's gracious love and forgiveness for you?

Discussing Truths:

1. How did the prophet Nathan confront king David about his sin (2 Samuel 12:1-7a)?
2. David wrote his prayer of repentance (Psalm 51) after Nathan confronted him with his sin which he had tried to hide for a year. How does Psalm 51:13 explain David's teaching in Psalm 32?
3. Do you feel the freedom of God's forgiveness (i.e., no guilt or shame)? How does Psalm 103:10-13 and Romans 8:1 help set you free from emotional bondage?
4. Why do we still need to confess our sins if we have been completely forgiven by grace through faith in Jesus (Pr. 28:13; 1 John 1:9)? How do you deal with repeated sins?
5. How does David clarify that he could not hide from God, but he could hide himself in God (Psalm 32:3, 4, 7)?
6. What is the difference between feeling conviction from the Holy Spirit and feeling guilt after confessing your sin? Is there any sin too big for God to forgive?
7. Why is obedience to God's ways such an important aspect of our spiritual freedom (Psalm 32:8-11)?
8. Have you ever been accused of being "stubborn as a mule?" How did God discipline you during that rebellion (Hebrews 12:6-11)?

Now What? Application:

1. Is there anyone you need to ask forgiveness? Make an effort to express humble and genuine act of contrition to them.
2. Are there any unconfessed sins that you've been keeping silent about? Confess them!