Family Forgiveness
John Wesley emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness within families, illustrating its importance through a personal story of reconciliation.
John Wesley shares a powerful story about family forgiveness, illustrating how a quarrel between a young woman named Sally and her aunt was resolved through the act of asking for pardon. Sally, who had a fierce spirit, was encouraged by Wesley to seek reconciliation, leading to a heartfelt moment of tears and forgiveness among the family members. This incident not only mended their relationship but also surprised her mother, who had never seen Sally act in such a humble manner before. Wesley emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness within families and the role of a minister in guiding individuals towards reconciliation.
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Sat 26 Dec 1747: I called on one with whose mother I had prayed a little before her death. I knew not till now how she came to desire me, of all persons, to pray with her. It seems her daughter, who was of a lion-like spirit, came to me some time before and told me she had just been a-quarrelling with her aunt on my account, and was so angry that she struck her. I told her, 'Then go and ask her pardon.' She went home, ran to her aunt, and asked her pardon.
While they were hanging upon each other, both in tears, her mother came in, being afraid they were fighting.
She cried out, 'Sister, what is Sally doing to you?' She replied, 'She had been just asking me pardon.' 'I never knew her to do such a thing since she was born,' said her mother. 'Sally, who taught you that?' 'My minister,' said Sally. All were struck, and their enmity was at an end.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The importance of forgiveness in family relationships - Biblical examples of forgiveness - Consequences of unforgiveness
- II points: - Steps to seek forgiveness - The role of humility in asking for pardon - The impact of forgiveness on family unity
- III points: - Teaching forgiveness to the next generation - Creating a culture of forgiveness in the home - Prayer as a tool for healing relationships
- IV points: - Testimonies of restored relationships - Encouragement to practice forgiveness daily - God's grace in our efforts to forgive
Key Quotes
“''Then go and ask her pardon.''” — John Wesley
“''I never knew her to do such a thing since she was born.''” — John Wesley
“''My minister,'' said Sally.” — John Wesley
Application Points
- Practice asking for forgiveness in your daily interactions with family members.
- Create an environment where forgiveness is openly discussed and encouraged.
- Utilize prayer as a means to seek healing and restoration in strained relationships.