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

[Pressing-On]

originally posted by Rico
I am posting some scripture here for you to consider:

Mt 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.


Notice how God specified "without a cause".

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.

Mt 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;

Mt 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.


Notice the instructions are to the offender not the offendee.

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.

Mt 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

Mt 18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

Mt 18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican.

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.

In all these instructions there is not one mention of forgiving without being asked. Keep in mind that the question, as posed, was if we are required to forgive if someone doesn't ask. Also keep in mind that I believe it is better to forgive regardless of whether we are asked or not. In our humanity we are weak, and not forgiving someone could become a source of bitterness.

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