FORGIVENESS isn’t a side lesson in the Christian life-it’s the daily fruit of the gospel. But when the wound is real and the offender has a name, forgiveness can feel confusing, costly, and out of reach.
In this warm, teaching-oriented study of the New Testament letter to Philemon, Ricky Earl Trull guides believers through one of the most practical, often overlooked books of the Bible to answer the questions every Christian eventually faces:
What is forgiveness-and what is it not?
Does forgiveness mean reconciliation?
How do I forgive when trust is broken?
What do I do with recurring anger and hurt?
How can grace be extended without denying truth or wisdom?
Philemon is a short letter with a powerful message: the gospel that reconciles us to God also reshapes the way we receive one another. As Paul urges Philemon to welcome Onesimus, bear the cost of restored fellowship, and "refresh" hearts in Christ, readers are shown how forgiveness is lived out in real relationships-with integrity, clarity, and grace.
This book is structured for personal growth and group study, focusing on three dimensions of gospel forgiveness:
The Character of one who forgives - genuine faith and active love
The Actions of one who forgives - acceptance granted and grace extended
The Motives of one who forgives - welcoming others in Christ, bearing cost, and refreshing hearts
Each chapter includes a practical End-of-Chapter Study Guide with Scriptures, reflection questions, and a weekly practice assignment to help you move from understanding forgiveness to walking in it.
Whether you are carrying deep hurt, navigating everyday relational conflict, or simply longing to live more like Christ, FORGIVENESS will point you to the strength God supplies-and the freedom He intends.