Unforgivenness Allows Demonic Attacks (Clip)
Zac Poonen teaches that unforgiveness opens the door to demonic attacks and emphasizes the necessity of forgiving others as God has forgiven us.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of forgiveness by illustrating the parable of the unforgiving servant from Matthew 18. It highlights the severe consequences of harboring unforgiveness, leading to spiritual imprisonment and allowing demonic attacks in one's life. The message warns against holding grudges and stresses the need to forgive others as God has forgiven us.
Full Transcript
Pastor called the servant back. Hey, I forgave you a million dollars and you couldn't forgive that guy ten dollars. You put him in jail.
Now I'm going to put you in jail and not only jail, you read that in the end of Matthew 18, I'm going to send the torturers to torture you. Those are the demons. Now what I learned from that is when God has forgiven you and you don't forgive one person.
If there's one person anywhere in the world whom you have not forgiven, you literally, you don't physically catch him by the throat, but you hold him. You say, I won't, I won't, I won't forgive him. You have a grudge against him.
I'll tell you something. The demons will be allowed to attack you.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
- God forgives us a great debt
- We must forgive others smaller debts
- Unforgiveness leads to severe consequences
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II. The Spiritual Consequences of Unforgiveness
- Holding grudges is like holding a person captive
- Demons are permitted to torment the unforgiving
- Unforgiveness invites spiritual attacks
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III. The Call to Forgive
- Forgiveness is commanded by God
- Forgiving others reflects God's grace to us
- Freedom comes through releasing grudges
Key Quotes
“When God has forgiven you and you don't forgive one person, you literally hold him captive in your heart.” — Zac Poonen
“The demons will be allowed to attack you if you have a grudge against someone.” — Zac Poonen
“I forgave you a million dollars and you couldn't forgive that guy ten dollars.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Examine your heart for any unforgiveness and choose to forgive those who have wronged you.
- Recognize that holding grudges can open doors to spiritual attacks and seek God's help to release them.
- Reflect on God's immense forgiveness toward you as motivation to forgive others freely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is unforgiveness dangerous?
Unforgiveness allows demonic attacks and spiritual torment as it holds a grudge against others despite God's forgiveness.
What does Matthew 18 teach about forgiveness?
It teaches that God forgives us greatly and expects us to forgive others, warning of judgment if we refuse.
How can I overcome unforgiveness?
By remembering God's forgiveness toward you and choosing to forgive those who have wronged you.
Are demonic attacks a real consequence of unforgiveness?
According to Zac Poonen, yes; unforgiveness opens the door for demons to torment believers.
What practical steps can I take to forgive?
Pray for the person, release the grudge in your heart, and seek God's help to forgive fully.