Sermon from Luke 6:36-42. We’re all prone to excuse our own faults and magnify the faults of others. That is why Jesus here in this passage is teaching us that genuine “agape” love requires of us to show mercy toward others and to judge our own sins.

"Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. (37) "Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; (38) give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." (39) He also told them a parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? (40) A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. (41) Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? (42) How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye." Luke 6:36-42 

Discussion Questions

1. What is the difference between being judgmental and being discerning? Why is this distinction important?

2. How can we know when to show mercy to someone who has wronged us and when to confront? Are these in opposition?

3. How can a bitter person who was terribly mistreated overcome his or her feelings? What counsel would you give?

4. How can we forgive when we don’t feel forgiving? What does biblical forgiveness mean?