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What is the Definition of Forgiveness? Can’t I Just Say I’m Sorry?

Seattle Christian Counseling
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6827 Oswego Place NE, Suite B
SEATTLE, WA 98115
United States
6827 Oswego Place NE, Suite B
SEATTLE, WA 98115
United States
Photo of Nitish Matthew

Nitish Matthew

Mar
2019
14

What is the Definition of Forgiveness? Can’t I Just Say I’m Sorry?

Nitish Matthew

Individual CounselingPersonal DevelopmentRelationship IssuesSpiritual Development

A Definition of Forgiveness

The Hebrew word for forgiveness means pardon, to cover or atone for, to lift up. Repentance in the Hebrew sense always connoted not just acceptance and feelings of remorse but also changing behavior, seeking pardon, and making amends.

The Greek word for repentance is metanoia, which means to make plans, change intention, change of heart and mind. Putting the Hebrew and Greek definitions together gives us the ontology to change direction from accomplishing evil deeds and move towards accomplishing good deeds that are aligned with God’s will.

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Why Sorry is Not Enough

In Israel’s history, repentance meant turning away from idols and turning towards to the Lord. For example, David’s adultery with Bathsheba, under the Mosaic Covenant, required death, but because David repented, his life was spared by the Lord. Yet, David did bear the some of consequences of his sin and his sin was recorded in the Bible so as to be never forgotten.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” — 2 Corinthians 7:10

Forgiveness requires godly sorrow, followed by repentance (turning to righteousness in Christ), and making amends to the person that suffered the consequences of your sin.

Forgiveness in Counseling

What is the Definition of Forgiveness? Can't I Just Say I'm Sorry?Forgiving truly involves talking about the sinful action and turning toward doing good things to make the one wronged against restored, loved, and cherished. It means turning away from the desire for further sinful action.

In thinking about the person that was wronged: This person now has to trust that the person who has done the wrongdoing has truly repented as demonstrated by a living faith of action in reconciliation and devotion to righteousness toward the hurt person.

The person who committed the sinful act needs to take ownership of the act, confess it, and make amends to make it right. The person who was hurt by the sinful action has a biblical mandate to let it go and to pardon the offense when the wrongdoer has followed the practical steps of repentance.

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this article are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please contact one of our counselors for further information.

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Nitish Matthew

Licensed Mental Health Counselor
(206) 388-3061 nitishm@seattlechristiancounseling.com

One of my greatest joys is to connect with people on a relational level. My multicultural background and experience enable me to relate well to numerous types of individuals. I enjoy integrating God’s Word into every aspect of life and believe that even the most dire circumstances can be transformed for good with the help of the Holy Spirit. One of my passions is to coach individuals toward reaching their personal and professional ambitions. I would love to meet with you to discuss how we can work together to achieve your aspirations. Read more articles by Nitish »

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About Nitish

Photo of Nitish Matthew

Nitish Matthew, MA, MA (I/O), LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

One of my greatest joys is to connect with people on a relational level. My multicultural background and experience enable me to relate well to numerous types of individuals. I enjoy integrating God’s Word into every aspect of life and believe that even the most dire circumstances can be transformed for good with the help of the Holy Spirit. One of my passions is to coach individuals toward reaching their personal and professional ambitions. I would love to meet with you to discuss how we can work together to achieve your aspirations. View Nitish's Profile

Recent articles by Nitish

  • Apr 16 · The Crossover Between Personal Development at Work and Home
  • Mar 14 · What is the Definition of Forgiveness? Can’t I Just Say I’m Sorry?
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See all articles by Nitish »

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