Since the heart is only known by God, how can we be SURE?

[Rico]

Originally Posted by Pressing-On

I'm not sure what you are saying, but the scripture is instructing forgiveness by saying - "shall be in danger". It's a warning and shows the extent someone will go with unforgiveness in their heart. It doesn't mention forgiveness, but it stands to reason it is or needs to be present with that kind of attitude.


But by going to the "offendee" you are opening up the heart of the "offendee" to see a better way. It is a process of forgiveness. Some people must be taught by example. So, I believe the scripture is reaching for the "offendee", because he cannot help himself.


Here again, we are reaching for the "offendee" by going the extra mile to pull him out of his state of mind.

I don't believe any of the scripture you posted are overlooking the "offendee", but reaching for him.



Again, I believe the instructions are clear - reach for the lost. Show them a more excellent way.

I understand where you are coming from and can see the principles you are gleaning from the text. I, on the other hand, am, for the purpose of deciding if we are required to forgive before asked, seeing the text from an instructional standpoint and do not see where we are being instructed to forgive before being asked to by the offender.