Understanding the Biblical Difference One of the most misunderstood aspects of Christian relationships is the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. While Scripture is crystal clear that we are always called to forgive, it is equally clear that reconciliation is a separate, sometimes conditional process. Understanding the differences is vital for maintaining healthy, biblical relationships and… Continue reading Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation
In recent years, many churches have seen a decline in weekly attendance. Some pastors report that the average congregation member attends only half the time. While I’m grateful to lead a church where most prioritize regular attendance, I also recognize that cultural trends and personal struggles often pull people away. But Scripture calls us to… Continue reading Why Weekly Church Attendance Matters
How many times should we forgive someone who wrongs us? In Matthew 18:21, Peter asked Jesus this question. He suggested seven times, likely thinking he was being generous. But Jesus’ response—seventy times—reveals a more profound reality about forgiveness in God’s kingdom. True forgiveness isn’t about keeping count but reflecting the mercy we have received. The… Continue reading Forgiveness: The Mark of God’s Kingdom
Across the landscape of our country church buildings are sitting empty. Churches, which once hosted vibrantly singing worshippers, weddings, and baptisms now have grass growing high all around them, broken stained glass, or have been turned into apartments or businesses. The question is, how did we get here? One reason is surely that some churches… Continue reading 4 Ways Churches Can Work to be Unified
Every relationship involves forgiveness because every relationship involves sinners like ourselves. None of us treat each other perfectly. All of us have said or done things to each other that we wish we had not. This is why forgiveness is one of the keys to maintaining healthy relationships. Forgiveness says, “you have sinned against me,… Continue reading Why Christians Should Know How to Forgive
As we approach a new year, many of us are excited. We have had a great last year, and we are hoping that this year is the same. For those whose last year was not what they had hoped for, there can be new mercies this year. As the author of Lamentations writes “His mercies… Continue reading New Mercies for a New Year
Many of us, if we’re honest, struggle with forgiveness. Well, when it comes to forgiving others anyway. We often do a pretty good job at forgiving our own sin. But when it comes to others, it often takes more time and effort. Why? There are several reasons that we struggle to forgive others. A major… Continue reading The Blessings of Covering Sin
Jeremy Yeckley is a friend of Tim Madden, and a guest blogger from time to time on Maddening Theology. He works with Tabernacle Bible Church in Honesdale, Pa, and Foundations Christian Counseling across northeastern Pennsylvania, and around the country. He is a gifted counselor, communicator, and leader. You can read part 1 to this series… Continue reading How to Thrive in Personal Conflict with Jeremy Yeckley Part 2 The Truth Behind Conflict
