The overarching story of the whole Bible is God's redemption and forgiveness of the sins of mankind. It's pretty much a pattern: man sins, God is grieved, he shows grace and forgives. Forgiveness is one of life's greatest graces, one that we have received from a just and holy God even when we do not deserve it. This grace was only made possible because the Son of God chose to bear the deadly weight of sin on our behalf.
As a result, God has called us to extend grace to others, even those who we feel do not deserve our grace and mercy. The forgiveness of the trespass of others is made possible because Jesus had initiated the chain of compassion and liberation. In the same way that God has liberated us from the guilt and shame of our wrong doings, He has given us the command and the ability to forgive those who have sinned against us.
Here are some scriptures that highlight the forgiveness God extended to us and how we are to respond- by forgiving others as well.
Psalm 51:17. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 86:5. You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.
Isaiah 1:18. Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.
Proverbs 17:9. Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
Matthew 6:14-15. For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Colossians 3:13. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Ephesians 4:31-32. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Luke 6:37. Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
John 8:7. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."
Galatians 6:1-2. Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted
