Forgiveness is a powerful theme that we often encounter in many events in the Bible. It's about letting go of anger and resentment towards someone who has hurt us. This concept is not just a moral suggestion; it's at the core of Christian teachings.

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Did you know 73% of people struggle to forgive someone who’s hurt them deeply? The Bible doesn’t just ask us to forgive—it shows us how through riveting stories of betrayal, grace, and redemption.

Our list of Bible stories about forgiveness outlined below offers you insights on why and how we should forgive others, portraying forgiveness as a path to peace and reconciliation.

See also: Bible Stories About Love

What Does The Bible Say About Forgiveness

The Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of forgiveness. It encourages us to forgive others, just as we have been forgiven by God. Here are five key teachings about forgiveness from the Bible:

• Forgiveness is a command: We are instructed to forgive others, not as an option, but as a command.
• Forgiveness reflects God's love: By forgiving others, we mirror the unconditional love and forgiveness that God has shown us.
• Forgiveness brings freedom: Letting go of grudges and bitterness frees our hearts and minds.
• Forgiveness is ongoing: It's not a one-time act, but a continuous process, as shown in the concept of forgiving someone "seventy times seven" times.
• Forgiveness heals relationships: It's the first step towards healing and restoring broken relationships.

Download a copy of Forgiveness Journal

Bible Stories About Forgiveness

In this section, we will share with you 10 captivating Bible stories that illustrate the power and importance of forgiveness. Each story reveals a unique perspective on how individuals embraced forgiveness, even in the most challenging situations.

1. The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

The parable of the Prodigal Son is one of the most well-known Bible stories about forgiveness. It tells the story of a young man who demands his inheritance, leaves home, and wastes his wealth on reckless living. When he hits rock bottom, he returns to his father, expecting rejection. Instead, his father welcomes him with open arms, celebrating his return.

This story teaches us about God’s endless love and readiness to forgive. No matter how far we stray or how many mistakes we make, God is always waiting to forgive us and restore our relationship with Him. It’s a powerful reminder that forgiveness is a gift of grace, not something we earn.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is an act of love that heals and restores broken relationships.

2. Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 45:1-15): Forgiving Family Betrayal

The story of Joseph and his brothers is a profound example of forgiveness in the Bible. Joseph’s brothers, driven by jealousy, sell him into slavery. Despite enduring years of hardship, Joseph rises to a position of power in Egypt. When his brothers come to him during a famine, Joseph forgives them, recognizing that their actions were part of God’s greater plan to save many lives.

This story highlights the power of forgiveness to overcome bitterness and resentment. Joseph’s ability to forgive his brothers not only mends their relationship but also demonstrates how forgiveness can bring about reconciliation and healing.

The Situation: Sold into slavery by jealous brothers, Joseph becomes Egypt’s prime minister and saves their lives during famine.

3. David Spares Saul's Life (1 Samuel 24:1-22)

In this story, David has the perfect opportunity to take revenge on King Saul, who is unjustly trying to kill him. Instead of harming Saul, David chooses to spare his life, showing remarkable forgiveness and respect for God’s anointed king.

David’s act of mercy teaches us that forgiveness often requires great strength and humility. It reflects the heart of God, who calls us to forgive even those who wrong us. This story is a powerful example of how forgiveness can transform conflict into peace.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is a choice that reflects God’s character and brings peace to our hearts.

4. Stephen Forgives His Accusers (Acts 7:54-60)

Stephen, one of the first Christian martyrs, demonstrates extraordinary forgiveness in the face of persecution. While preaching the Gospel, he is falsely accused and stoned to death. In his final moments, Stephen prays for his attackers, saying, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60).

This story is a profound example of true Christian forgiveness. Even in the face of injustice and death, Stephen mirrors the forgiveness Jesus showed on the cross. His actions remind us that forgiveness is not dependent on the actions of others but is a choice rooted in faith and love.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is a reflection of Christ’s love, even in the most difficult circumstances.

5. Jesus Forgives Peter (John 21:15-19)

After Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, he is filled with guilt and shame. However, after His resurrection, Jesus seeks out Peter and offers him forgiveness. In a tender moment, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” and reinstates him, commissioning him to care for His followers.

This story shows that God’s forgiveness is greater than our failures. Despite Peter’s denial, Jesus forgives him and restores their relationship, proving that no mistake is too big for God’s grace. It’s a powerful reminder that forgiveness opens the door to restoration and purpose.

Key Lesson: God’s forgiveness restores us and gives us a second chance to live out His calling.

6. The Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)

In this parable, Jesus tells the story of a servant who is forgiven a massive debt by his master. However, this same servant refuses to forgive a small debt owed to him by another servant. When the master learns of this, he revokes his forgiveness and punishes the unmerciful servant.

This story teaches the importance of forgiving others as we have been forgiven. It highlights the hypocrisy of accepting God’s forgiveness while refusing to extend it to others. Jesus uses this parable to remind us that forgiveness is not optional—it’s a fundamental part of living as His followers.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is a two-way street; we must forgive others as God has forgiven us.

7. Jesus Forgives the Paralytic (Mark 2:1-12)

In this story, a paralyzed man is brought to Jesus by his friends. Before healing the man physically, Jesus says, “Son, your sins are forgiven” (Mark 2:5). This declaration shocks the religious leaders, who question Jesus’ authority to forgive sins. Jesus then heals the man to demonstrate His divine power.

This story highlights the priority of spiritual healing over physical healing. It shows that forgiveness is the ultimate liberation, freeing us from the weight of sin and restoring our relationship with God.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is the foundation of true healing and restoration.

8. The Woman Who Anointed Jesus' Feet (Luke 7:36-50)

A woman with a sinful past approaches Jesus while He is dining at a Pharisee’s house. She anoints His feet with perfume and washes them with her tears as an act of worship. Though the Pharisee judges her, Jesus forgives her sins, saying, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (Luke 7:50).

This story beautifully illustrates God’s grace and the transformative power of His forgiveness. It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy, and forgiveness leads to a life of peace and gratitude.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness brings transformation and invites us to live in gratitude and worship.

9. Jesus Forgives His Crucifiers (Luke 23:33-34)

Even as Jesus is being crucified, He demonstrates the ultimate act of forgiveness. He prays, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). This prayer extends forgiveness to those who are actively causing His suffering.

This moment reveals the profound depth of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. It challenges us to forgive even in the most painful circumstances, showing that forgiveness is a reflection of God’s character.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is a radical act of love that reflects the heart of God.

10. Paul's Message to the Ephesians (Ephesians 4:31-32)

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul encourages believers to let go of bitterness, anger, and slander. Instead, he urges them to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

This passage emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in Christian community. It reminds us that forgiveness is not just a one-time act but a lifestyle that reflects God’s love and grace.

Key Lesson: Forgiveness is a daily practice that fosters unity and reflects God’s love.

Bible Quiz About Forgiveness

 

Results

#1. What does Stephen pray as he is being stoned to death?

Lord, do not hold this sin against them.

Lord, punish them for their sins.

Lord, give me strength to fight back.

Lord, save me from this pain.

#2. How many times does Peter deny Jesus before Jesus forgives him?

Three times

Four times

Once

Twice

#3. In the parable of the Prodigal Son, what does the father do when his son returns home?

Scolds him for wasting his inheritance

Refuses to let him back into the house

Asks him to repay the money

Throws a celebration

2

#4. In the parable of the Unmerciful Servant, what happens to the servant who refuses to forgive a small debt?

He is forgiven again

He is praised by his master

He is thrown into prison

He is given more responsibility

3

#5. What does the woman with a sinful past do to Jesus’ feet in Luke 7?

Wipes them with a cloth

Washes them with her tears and anoints them with perfume

Kisses them and leaves

Pours water on them

#6. What does Joseph do when he sees his brothers in Egypt after they sold him into slavery?

Seeks revenge

Forgives them

Sends them away

Pretends not to know them

#7. What does Jesus say while being crucified in Luke 23:34?

Today you will be with me in paradise.

It is finished.

Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.

Why have you forsaken me?

#8. In the story of David and Saul, what does David do when he has the chance to harm Saul?

Kills Saul

Takes Saul’s crown

Spares Saul’s life

Runs away

2

#9. What does Jesus say to the paralyzed man before healing him?

Your faith has healed you.

Go and sin no more.

Your sins are forgiven.

Take up your mat and walk.

#10. What does Paul urge the Ephesians to do in Ephesians 4:31-32?

Avoid those who wrong them

Hold grudges and seek revenge

Be kind, tender-hearted, and forgiving

Focus only on their own needs

Previous

Finish

FAQs: Bible Answers About Forgiveness

Q: How many times should I forgive? (Matthew 18:21-22)

A: Jesus said “77 times”—code for “always.” But here’s the twist: It’s not about tallying offenses. True forgiveness means releasing resentment, even if you need space from toxic people.

Q: What if the person isn’t sorry?

A: Look at Jesus on the cross—He forgave before anyone repented. Forgiveness protects your heart; reconciliation requires their effort. Learn healthy boundaries here.

Why These Bible Stories About Forgiveness Matter

These Bible stories about forgiveness reveal the heart of God’s character and His desire for us to live in grace and reconciliation. From Stephen’s prayer for his accusers to Jesus’ restoration of Peter and the lesson of the Unmerciful Servant, these stories challenge us to:

• Understand that forgiveness is a key to healing and restoration.
• Forgive even when it’s difficult.
• Accept God’s forgiveness and extend it to others.

By reflecting on these Bible stories about forgiveness, we can grow in our understanding of God’s grace and learn to forgive others as He has forgiven us. Let these stories inspire you to live a life marked by forgiveness and love!

Your Forgiveness Challenge

This week, try one action from these stories:

• Journal Prompt: “What ‘Joseph moment’ am I holding onto? What good could come from releasing it?”
• Prayer Experiment: Pray FOR (not about) someone who hurt you for 7 days. Note how your heart changes.
• Social Share: Post “I’m learning to forgive like [Bible character]” with #FaithfulForgiveness

Stay blessed and see you in our next post!