0361. 355. “Forgiven”

355. “Forgiven”

This word is like a sweet songster warbling out its praise amid a scene of devastation. This forgiveness is

1. Specific in its blessing. “Having forgiven you all trespasses” (Col_2:13). Sinners are the recipients. Mark the “trespasses” and “you.”

2. Sovereign in its bestowment. “Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people” (Psa_85:2). If the Lord had not done it, it would never have been done.

3. Sufficient in its atonement. “It shall be forgiven,” because “atonement has been made concerning his sin” (Lev_4:20; Lev_4:26; Lev_4:31; Lev_4:35; Lev_5:10, Lev_5:13, Lev_5:16). The blood of expiation is the ground of remission.

4. Soul-stirring in its enjoyment. “Blessed (or, “Oh! the blessedness”) is he whose transgression is forgiven” (Psa_32:1).

5. Certain in its assurance. “Your sins are forgiven” (1Jn_2:12). Note the past tense, “are,” and also the reason, “For His Name’s sake.”

6. Exemplary for our imitation. “Forgive and ye shall be forgiven” (Luk_6:37), even “as God for Christ’s sake” has “forgiven” you (Eph_4:32).

7. Happy in its enjoyment. “Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven” (Rom_4:7). When the load of sin is gone, then the man is joyful in his going.

By: DR. F. E. MARSH