Summary: Forgiveness is dependent upon our faith in God’s word.
A Christian embraces the truths in God’s word. We remember, “without faith it is impossible to please God,” (Hebrews 11:1). Consequently, we study the Bible, have faith in the scriptures, and apply it.
In order to receive forgiveness for our sins, we need to have faith that Jesus’s sacrifice atones for our sins. Colossians 1:14, “In whom (Jesus) we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.”
Jesus also taught us to pray, “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins,” Matthew 6:14,15 (NLT). So, not only do we need to believe God will forgive us, but also we need to forgive others to receive God’s forgiveness.
