Kingdom Covenant Part 10 with Discussion Guide

Kingdom Covenant Part 10 Discussion Guide

1 Title

Embracing Forgiveness: The Power of Letting Go

2 Sermon Summary

In this sermon, we explore the transformative power of forgiveness as exemplified in the story of Joseph from Genesis. Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, rises to a position of power in Egypt. When faced with the opportunity for retribution, Joseph chooses forgiveness, recognizing God’s greater plan at work. This act of forgiveness not only liberates his brothers from guilt but also frees Joseph from bitterness, allowing him to fulfill his role in God’s redemptive story.

The sermon emphasizes that forgiveness is not about condoning wrongs or immediately restoring trust, but about releasing the desire for revenge to God. It is a reflection of a changed heart and a step towards freedom. The message challenges us to consider our own lives, the areas where we may need to extend forgiveness, and the freedom that comes from trusting God’s justice and love.

3 Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your word and the message of forgiveness, we ask for open hearts and minds. Help us to see beyond our pain and the wrongs done to us, and to trust in Your greater purpose. May we embrace the freedom that comes from forgiveness, just as Joseph did, and may we experience Your love and grace in a new way. Guide our discussion and lead us to a deeper understanding of how to live out forgiveness in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

4 Ice Breaker

If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and why?

5 Key Verses

Genesis 50:19-20 (NIV) – “But Joseph said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.'”
Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

6 Questions

1. How do you think Joseph felt when he first saw his brothers in Egypt?
2. What does Joseph’s response to his brothers teach us about the nature of forgiveness?
3. Can you share a time when you found it difficult to forgive someone? How did you handle it?
4. How does holding onto unforgiveness affect our relationship with God and others?
5. What are some practical steps we can take to work towards forgiveness, even when it’s hard?
6. How can we discern the difference between forgiveness and trust in relationships?
7. In what ways does forgiveness free us, as it did Joseph?
8. How can we apply the principle of forgiving others as Christ has forgiven us in our daily lives?

7 Life Application

This week, identify someone you may be holding a grudge against or struggling to forgive. Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you release any bitterness and to begin the process of forgiveness. If you’re ready, take a step towards reconciliation, keeping in mind that trust may need to be rebuilt over time.

8 Ending Prayer

Lord God, thank You for the time we’ve spent together discussing Your word and the powerful example of forgiveness in Joseph’s life. As we go from here, help us to carry the message of forgiveness into our own lives. Give us the strength to let go of past hurts, to trust in Your perfect justice, and to extend grace to others as You have graciously done for us. May our lives reflect Your love and forgiveness in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.