“When someone in the church harms us in some way, what should we do? How should we respond? Many people would say, ‘Forgive!’ What could be more Christian, more spiritual, more biblical than to forgive?” says Ryan Ahlgrim, pastor of First Mennonite Church in Richmond, Virginia. After all, Jesus taught it. It is obvious, right? “But is that really the best response in all circumstances?” asks Ahlgrim. Today’s passage, Matthew 18:15-20, “gives us the other side and shows us a process that can lead to better healing.” Listen as Ahlgrim unpacks these verses and shows us why forgiveness is only the beginning.

This sermon is from A Sermon for Every Sunday, a series of lectionary-based video sermons designed for use in worship, Bible study, small groups, Sunday school classes or for individual use.

For more sermon preparation help, check out Pulpit Resource, Will Willimon's weekly lectionary-based sermon resource, available online and through a print subscription.