Top 10 Bible Scriptures on Forgiveness

1. Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

This verse reminds us that our forgiveness toward others should reflect God’s forgiveness toward us. It is an act of grace that flows from our understanding of His mercy.

2. 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.”

We are called to extend the same forgiveness we have received from the Lord. Holding on to bitterness hinders our spiritual growth and peace.

3. Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Jesus teaches that forgiveness is essential for our relationship with God. A heart unwilling to forgive reflects a misunderstanding of God’s grace.

4. Psalm 103:12

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”

God’s forgiveness is complete and unconditional. He removes our sins entirely, teaching us to extend the same grace to others.

5. Mark 11:25

“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

Unforgiveness can hinder our prayers and relationship with God. Releasing others through forgiveness restores both our hearts and our connection with Him.

6. 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.”

Forgiveness is tied to humility. We are reminded to release judgment and condemnation, knowing that we, too, are in need of grace.

7. Matthew 18:21-22

“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’”

Jesus teaches that forgiveness has no limit. We are to forgive repeatedly, just as God continually forgives us.

8. Romans 12:17-18

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

Forgiveness breaks the cycle of revenge and promotes peace. Choosing to forgive allows God to heal broken relationships.

9. Corinthians 2:10-11

“Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”

Unforgiveness can give the enemy a foothold in our lives. Forgiveness frees us from bitterness and protects us from the enemy’s schemes.

10. 1 John 1:9

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

God’s forgiveness is faithful and complete when we repent. As recipients of such mercy, we are empowered to extend the same forgiveness to others.