God’s Unique Kind of Forgiveness
Eʋe: Mawu ƒe Tsɔtsɔke le tɔxɛ
14th Sunday after Pentecost: 14th September, 2025
Texts:
Psalm 51:1–10
Exodus 32:7–14
1 Timothy 1:12–17
Luke 15:1–10
Introduction
Beloved in Christ, forgiveness is one of the most beautiful gifts of God. Human forgiveness is often conditional, selective, and limited. But God’s forgiveness is unique, boundless, and life-transforming. Today, our readings invite us to reflect deeply on this divine gift—how it restores us, how it renews us, and how it challenges us to forgive others as God forgives us.
1. God’s Forgiveness Cleanses the Guilty (Psalm 51:1–10)
David, after his sin with Bathsheba, cries: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; blot out my transgressions.”
Human beings often try to cover sins, deny them, or shift blame.
But David teaches us to come before God with brokenness and truth.
God’s forgiveness is not cosmetic—it goes deep, creating a clean heart and renewing a steadfast spirit within us.
Lesson: No matter the depth of our sin, God’s mercy is deeper still.
2. God’s Forgiveness Spares His People (Exodus 32:7–14)
Israel had sinned by making the golden calf. God’s anger burned against them. But when Moses interceded, God relented and did not destroy His people.
This shows that forgiveness is not earned—it flows from God’s compassion and covenant love.
God’s unique forgiveness is about giving us another chance when we deserve judgment.
Lesson: We are alive today not because we are sinless, but because God is merciful.
3. God’s Forgiveness Transforms Sinners into Servants (1 Timothy 1:12–17)
Paul recalls his past—he was a blasphemer, persecutor, and violent man. But he received mercy so that he might become an instrument of grace.
God’s forgiveness is not only about cancelling sin—it is about commissioning us into service.
Forgiven people become testimonies of grace.
Lesson: If God could forgive and use Paul, He can forgive and use us too.
4. God’s Forgiveness Rejoices over the Lost (Luke 15:1–10)
Jesus tells of the lost sheep and lost coin. Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents.
God’s forgiveness is not reluctant—it is joyful.
Unlike humans who may forgive with bitterness, God celebrates reconciliation.
Forgiveness is God’s joy, not His burden.
Lesson: You are so precious to God that your return brings joy in heaven.
Illustrative Story
A little boy accidentally broke a precious vase in his home. Afraid of punishment, he ran and hid. Later, his father found him trembling and in tears. Instead of scolding, the father knelt, embraced him, and said, “I forgive you. The vase can be replaced, but you cannot be replaced.”
Beloved, this is how God treats us. Our sins may be serious, but to Him, we are more precious than our mistakes. His forgiveness restores us instead of rejecting us.
Application for Us Today
1. Confession: Do not hide your sins—bring them before God. His mercy is greater than your guilt.
2. Intercession: Pray for others, like Moses did, that they too may find forgiveness.
3. Transformation: Allow forgiveness to make you a new person, ready for service.
4. Celebration: Rejoice when others are forgiven; do not be like the Pharisees who grumbled when sinners drew near to Jesus.
Conclusion
Beloved, God’s forgiveness is unique:
It cleanses the guilty,
Spares the condemned,
Transforms sinners into servants,
And rejoices over the lost.
Let us open our hearts today to receive this forgiveness and extend it to others. As Paul said: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” (1 Tim. 1:15)
May we all be renewed by God’s unique kind of forgiveness. Amen.
Rev. Sylvanus Yao Kpodonu
Amen