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Bears Quote by Timothy Keller

“...God's grace and forgiveness, while free to the recipient, are always costly for the giver… From the earliest parts of the Bible, it was understood that God could not forgive without sacrifice. No one who is seriously wronged can "just forgive" the perpetrator… But when you forgive, that means…” quote by Timothy Keller
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“...God's grace and forgiveness, while free to the recipient, are always costly for the giver… From the earliest parts of the Bible, it was understood that God could not forgive without sacrifice. No one who is seriously wronged can "just forgive" the perpetrator… But when you forgive, that means you absorb the loss and the debt. You bear it yourself. All forgiveness, then, is costly.”

Timothy Keller

About This Quote

Source Book: The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller, 2008

Forgiveness demands personal sacrifice; it is not a free gift but a costly act of bearing another's burden.

In simple terms: Forgiveness costs the giver.

Key Takeaway

Be prepared to bear the cost of forgiveness.

Themes

forgiveness cost burden grace

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • conflict resolution
  • personal healing
  • spiritual practice
  • leadership

Key Concepts

theology ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are you willing to bear the cost of forgiveness?
  • What boundaries protect you from undue sacrifice?
A Different Perspective

Forgiveness may be exploited if not balanced with accountability.

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