Joseph’s life serves as a vivid contrast between the freedom that forgiveness brings and the chains that unforgiveness can place on the heart. Joseph, despite the grave injustices he suffered, chose the path of mercy. For his brothers, however, though they had been forgiven, their hearts remained bound by shame and anxiety. This kept them from fully experiencing the freedom Joseph enjoyed because they had not yet received the peace that comes from truly accepting forgiveness. Join us for session fourteen as we examine the power of forgiveness and the freedom it confers.

Verses Used:

Gen. 50:7-10

Gen. 50:15

Lk. 6:35-36

1 Tim 1:15-17

Gen. 50:19

Rom. 7:24-8:2

Gen. 50:20

Discussion Questions:

*In a conflict when you hold a grudge or repay evil for evil, what is the result? Is there peace? Is there resolution to the conflict?

*What does Joseph’s response to his brothers teach us about the power of forgiveness?

*How do you think he was able to forgive them despite everything they did to him?

*When his brothers expect Joseph to bear a grudge and repay the evil they had done, he asks, “Am I in God’s place?” What did he mean by this? How does taking our own vengeance usurp God’s place?

*While our instinct may be to repay evil for evil, what are we called to instead? (See Luke 6:27-36, 1 Thessalonians 5:15, Colossians 3:12-14) Why is it hard to act like this? Why should we obey these verses, even though it’s difficult?

*Is there someone in your life with whom you have unresolved issues or you bear a grudge against? What can you purpose to do to help you walk in obedience to how you are called to treat your enemies?