The Truth About Forgiveness

by John F. MacArthur Jr.

A focused, powerful message about forgiveness and its necessity in living a joy-filled Christian life.

"The greatest measuring rod of love in the life of a Christian may be forgiveness, because God showed His love to us in terms of forgiveness." -John MacArthur


Does anyone really want to forgive? Or admit that we need forgiveness? Whether we're giving or receiving, forgiveness is hard. It seems unfair. It feels unnatural. And as best-selling author and pastor John MacArthur demonstrates, forgiveness apart from Christ is unnatural. It is only as we understand our need, Christ's power and example, and what it really means to love that we can embrace two of the most liberating acts of love: forgiving and being forgiven.


The Truth About Series
For decades, MacArthur has encouraged countless Christians to develop a deeper understanding of the Bible and a greater respect for God's truth. In The Truth About series, he now gathers his landmark teachings about core aspects of the Christian faith in one place. These powerful books are designed to give readers a focused experience that centers on God's character and how it applies to their daily walk of faith.

Genres: Christian, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Faith, Christian Non Fiction, Religion, Theology

Audible Audio

First published May 1, 2012

About the author

John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

Reviews

[Christopher Desruisseau · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book on forgiveness and why we are called to it. At only 118 pages it can be read in one sitting.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was the most wonderful read to prep me for my Women's Bible study I am leading on forgiveness!!

[Debbie · Rating 1 out of 5]

"The Truth about Forgiveness" is a Christian book primarily about God's grace and forgiveness toward us (though he also made the point that we should pass this forgiveness on to others).

The author started off with 12 pages (out of 112 pages) ranting about modern psychology. His points in relation to forgiveness could have been handled in 2 pages. I was hoping to be able to hand this book to unbelievers, but the rant came across to me as off-putting unless you already agreed with him (and I did), so I doubt that the people who need to know about forgiveness the most would even get past those pages.

What the book actually said about forgiveness was correct, but I was surprised at how often the author made comments--and even built his case for forgiveness--on things not actually mentioned in the Bible. And he could have easily stuck with the plentiful Scriptures that talk specifically about forgiveness.

For example, the author stated with certainty that the Pharisees had come in Luke 5:17-26 to condemn Jesus and thwart his popularity (page 23). This was early in Jesus' ministry, and nowhere in the 3 gospel accounts of this event does it state that this was their intention. And the Bible doesn't hesitate to say when it was someone's intent.

The author also portrayed the Pharisees as the main Bad Guys of the gospel, which books like "Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus" clearly demonstrate isn't true. Even in the Luke 5:17-26 event, two of the three gospel writers that talked about this event only mention the Scribes showing unbelief. Yet MacArthur focused on the Pharisees instead.

While I recognize that this wasn't meant to be a scholarly work, it would have been nice to know where he got his information about what Pharisee's believed (like his comments on page 61), the cultural information behind the parable of the prodigal son, and so on. He seemed to be making a lot of assumptions and even added to the Bible in an attempt to increase the impact of what was actually given in the Bible. For example, the Bible doesn't even mention a village in Luke 15:11-31, but the author spent several pages making a major point out of how the father saved his prodigal son from the shame of having to walk through the village (pages 72-80).

He also commented several times (for example, pages 18, 86) on how the Pharisees had made all these rules so that they could earn their way into rightness with God. Yet, as I understood it (and, unfortunately, I'm not sure which places I read this), the people came to those who knew the Law really well and asked them to make these boundaries so that they wouldn't sin accidentally.

It'd be like a young woman who wants to be modest asking her mother what, exactly, makes up modest clothing. Yes, it could easily turn into being all about necklines and hem lengths, but that doesn't mean the mother originally made those rules to make her daughter earn her righteousness.

Basically, I think there are books out there on the topic of forgiveness that are more focused on what the Bible actually does say on the topic, and I'd recommend them instead. (For example, "Forgiveness: Breaking the Power of the Past" by Kay Arthur).

I received this book as a review copy through the BookSneeze program.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, sweet and to the point. Great read on a singular topic - clearly written and easy to follow.

[Clued-in With A Book (Elvina Ulrich) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness is one of the greatest virtues in our Christian walk. It heals and restores broken relationships, and God's forgiveness frees us from our sin bondage. But what is forgiveness? Do we truly grasp the real meaning of forgiveness? The Truth About Forgiveness - one of the 3 books in The Truth About series - aims to provide a thorough understanding of forgiveness and what better way to understand than by studying God's Word and see how God's forgiveness is manifested through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In this brief but concise book, Pastor MacArthur provides an insightful study on forgiveness. Jesus' ministry on earth - His healings and teachings - reflects God's forgiveness towards us. And only God can forgive. It is a crucial concept to grasp as faith begins when we seek forgiveness, and forgiveness begins with repentance from a broken and contrite heart. Biblical teachings from the Scripture - for example the paraplegic in Mark 2:1-2, is the epitome of our spiritual state. Just like the paraplegic man who was in the mercy of Jesus' healing, so does our spiritual state is in the mercy of Jesus' forgiveness. This is just one of the many examples used in this book which makes it such an easy read.

The Truth About Forgiveness is a good read for both believers (new and seasoned) and non-believers. It is convicting but lovingly written. It is a quick read with only seven chapters (unfortunately) and biblically sound with practical examples. Whether we are giving or receiving forgiveness, it needs to be understood from a biblical perspective. Only then can we learn to forgive others just like how Christ has forgiven us.

[Reuben H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book in a series of three books by John MacArthur. I had to choose one out of The Truth About Grace, The Truth About Forgiveness, or The Truth About the Lordship of Christ to read and review. I chose the one that I would be the most interested in, as forgiveness is something I have always struggled with.

I didn't expect much from the book; nonfiction generally bores me by explaining things I already knew in five times the amount of words necessary. I do admit sometimes I thought it was a little wordy—even for a book only a little over a hundred pages—but that is to be expected, and it didn't happen nearly as much as I thought it would.

I started the book genuinely surprised; MacArthur started at a point I wouldn't expect, and continued explaining what I had never thought of before. That, in itself, is something wonderful. I began expecting little, and what I found was more than I could have hoped for.

The first chapter made me think a lot. Sometimes I thought, "He can't say that, because it's very apparent that he's never experienced that himself," but every time as I kept reading I realized that this man truly knows what he's talking about, whether he's experienced "certain things" or not.

The Truth About Forgiveness is not a typical Christian nonfiction book, basically putting a boring sermon I've heard before into text format. It's something entirely unique, and for the first time something actually worth putting into book format. It focuses much on what Jesus said about forgiveness, through parables and stories, along with actual happenings, but it does it in a way that grabs your attention and keeps you interested. What's more, it actually uses good points that you might not have thought of.

It's extremely rare that a nonfiction book, especially about Christianity, does not disappoint me, but this one not only didn't disappoint me, it actually impressed me. When I saw the dozens of five-star ratings for the book, I inwardly chuckled and knew it would have a lot to prove if it were going to get anywhere near that rating from me. Because face it, everyone: sermons and books about forgiveness are generally just plain boring. We never truly hear what we need to hear. John MacArthur's book, however, is different.

I have never recommended a nonfiction book as highly as I recommend this one. Five stars.

[Tracie Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read!

Once again Pastor MacArthur delivered an awesome breakdown of Scripture! Boy, it made me think and ask myself if I had truly forgiven my husband for some things that he has said and down, I mean TRULY FORGIVEN him! So I went to my husband with a humbled heart and told him that if I have never told you that I forgive you for all that you have said and done to me that hurt me, I do forgive you and I want you to forgive me for all that I have said and done to you knowingly and unknowingly and for the first time in a long time it didn't bother me when he came and hugged me! I knew then that I had truly forgiven him at that moment! My God is sooooooo awesome that HE put that on my heart to check myself! You MUST examine yourself on a daily basis to see if your actions line up with your confession! I so love YOU SAVIOR! Again, AWESOME read!!!!

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiveness is letting go of the need for revenge and releasing negative thoughts of bitterness and resentment. John MacArthur points out in this book the importance of forgiving so that we can be forgiven. Forgiving someone that has wronged you in some way is probably the hardest thing that you will have to do, but it is something that we must do. In his book John tells how Jesus was spit on, his beard pulled out, a crown of thorns was crushed into His head, and nails were driven through his flesh to pin Him to the cross. Any other person would have wanted to retaliate, but Jesus never threatened. Instead, he forgave them. Luke 23:34. The book is full of scriptures about forgiveness.

[Lizette Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pastor Mac Arthur provides a thorough look at human nature, and our inability to forgive. Society is quick to present our problems as addictions, or illnesses, but never draws the conclusion that those ailments may result from guilt, bitterness, or resentment.

He continues his argument by reviewing the parable of the prodigal son and which correlates with how God forgive us. If God is so generous with his forgiveness, why can't we pursue reconciliation with others?

This little book is highly recommended.

[Richard Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

Share God’s Forgiveness with others!

Excellent teaching on forgiveness. John MacArthur reminds us that forgiveness is supernatural for a person whose sins have been forgiven by God.

[Patti Gray Dunkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear and truthful

In seven chapters, John MacArthur teaches about how God forgives sinners who put their faith in the finished work of Christ and how believers are to forgive others.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just solid Bible and John MacArthur. Chapter 6 is especially good on the history of the altar call. John MacArthur is able to pull deep meaning out of Bible stories we all take for granted that we fully understand, like the Prodigal Son. Excellent, quick read.

[Jonathan Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear concise book on our need for forgiveness and where it can be found. MacArthur is always good at making things plan and he does it here as well. I am reading this to help me teach on Matthew 6:14-15. This was a good resource. Recommended

[Duane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative

MacArthur begins by taking an unjustly broad, indiscriminate swipe at rehab and recovery services in the modern age. However, the truths presented regarding forgiveness are unarguable, and thoroughly Bivlical.

[Aaron Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fairly short and easy read on forgiveness. Theologically sound, practically incriminating, and just the right balance of scholarly wisdom and common writing for clarity and depth. I’m grateful for this authors like and ministry.

[cesar juarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

An excellent book. MacArthur never disappoints. It's sound theology that touches the heart. Classic MacArthur. I recommend it but then again I recommend all his books.

[Jaymee Pilarta · Rating 4 out of 5]

God loves because He is love; love is essential to who He is. Rather than viewing His love as proof of something worthy in us, we ought to be humbled by it.

[Thomas Q. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, Macarthur outlines the Godly attribute of 'forgiveness'. First he explains our need of it, and how God provided it, and defined it by His example, showings us how we are to forgive as well. I thought it was a good overview of the topic. I thought that the book would be longer than it was (its quite small, only 118 pages), but if you want a resource to give to someone who wants to learn about the Gospel, this is a nice concise read.

I liked Macarthur's point about how the escalating depravity of humanity that Paul speaks about in Romans 1 is not merely grosser sins, rather, it is the loss of conscience: "Paul knew that those who underestimate the enormity and gravity of human sinfulness - especially those who do not see their own depravity - cannot apply the only effective remedy to their problems...to attempt to eradicate the human conscience is one of the most spiritually destructive pursuits any individual or society can engage in. It results in God's wrath- not yet ultimate wrath (hell( or eschatological wrath ( the Day of the Lord), but temporal wrath. That is, He removes restraining grace and turns a person or a society over the cycle of sin without the mitigating deterrent of conscience......That is Paul's main point in Romans 1:18-32. There he describes the judgment of God that results in humanity's decline into wanton sin. Notice that the most dramatic feature of his narrative is not the ghastly sins he names - although he chronicles some pretty gross practices. But the singular feature that marks each step of mankind's descent under God's wrath involves the hardening and decimation of the conscience.......Paul said God's wrath is revealed because people 'suppress the truth in unrighteousness' (Romans 1:18). He is referring to sinners who have successfully hushed their own consciences. 'The truth' they suppress is innately known truth about the character of God, a sense of good and bad, and a basic knowledge of right and wrong. These things are universally known to all, 'evident within them; for God made it evident to them' (vs.19 NASB). In other words, God manifests Himself in the most basic sense within every human conscience."

Also, his critique of modern therapy, and our turning sin into 'illness' is very pointed: "...the number of people who suffer from such newly identified "sicknesses" is increasing even faster. The therapy industry is clearly not solving the problem of what Scripture calls sin. Instead it merely convinces multitudes that they are desperately sick and therefore not really responsible for their wrong behavior. It gives them permission to think of themselves as patients, not malefactors. And it encourages them to undergo extensive - and expensive- treatment that lasts for years, or better yet, for a lifetime. These new diseases, it seems, are ailments from which no one is ever expected to recover completely......Recovery, the code word for programs modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, is explicitly marketed as a lifelong program. We've grown accustomed to the image of a person who has been sober for forty years standing up in an AA meeting and saying, 'I'm Bill, and I'm an alcoholic.' Now all 'addicts' are using the same approach - including sex addicts, gambling addicts, nicotine addicts, anger addicts, wife-beating addicts, child-molesting addicts, debt addicts, eat addicts, or whatever. People suffering from such maladies are taught to speak of themselves as 'recovering' never 'recovered.' Those who dare to think of themselves as delivered from their affliction are told they are living in denial..... Disease model therapy therefore feeds the very problem it is supposed to treat. It alleviates any sense of guilt, while making people feel they are victims helplessly bound for life to their affliction....(it)is disastrously counterproductive. By casting the sinner in the role of a victim, it ignores or minimizes the personal guilt inherent in misbehavior. 'I am sick' is much easier to say than, 'I have sinned' But it doesn't deal with the fact that one's transgression is a serious offense against a holy, omniscient, omnipotent God. Personal guilt is for that very reason at the heart of what must be confronted when dealing with one's sin. But the disease-model remedy cannot address the problem of guilt without explaining it away. And by explaining guilt away, disease-model therapy does untold violence to the human conscience. It is therefore no remedy at all, but a disastrous prescription for escalating wickedness and eternal damnation."

If you want a good, but quick explanation of the Gospel to read, or just to carry around with you to give to inquirers this would be a good choice.

I received this book as a complimentary copy from BookSneeze® in exchange for my review(which does not have to be favorable).

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit, I’m somewhat of a bibliophile, and I’m cheap. I love books. Especially free books. So when I saw I could get John MacArthur’s new book in exchange for writing a review (this very review you’re reading right now) I jumped at it. I’ve read a lot on forgiveness, both toward God and man, and was planning on taking an hour, skimming the 115 page book, and getting the next book in his series. My plan failed… Let me explain why.
From the first page, I found myself screaming “Yes!” I assumed that this was going to be a basic book, but MacArthur hits the nail on the head when dealing with reasons we don’t want forgiveness. He starts by rallying against the sin as sickness mentality in one of the best presentations I’ve ever read (this is coming from a Biblical Counseling student. I’ve read about it before.) Granted, it is a few years dated (cites the DSM III-R, DSM IV-R is current [p. 5]), but it is true none the less. He describes the ways man tries to obtain forgiveness, through the law or through Christ. He cites studies and scripture, and is poignant and eloquent in doing it. I’m in love with this book… and I haven’t even started chapter two.
Now chapter two: MacArthur speaks of the fact that only God can forgive sins. And Jesus forgave sins, which means that Jesus is God and forgives sins. He uses the case study of the quadriplegic lowered through the ceiling’s healing to show this. He presents the story and it’s meaning and implications well - he is helpful in showing the connections between healing and forgiveness, and offers a fresh (read: biblical) take on the story (not “what will you do to bring your friends to Jesus.”)
Chapter three then deals with God’s forgiveness in spite of who we are, not because of who we are. MacArthur speaks clearly about confession and repentance as necessary. He continues in chapter 4 to show from the Prodigal Son and story of Joseph how God actually wants to forgive. MacArthur is faithful to present the full truth of the scriptures on the issue of forgiveness. I’m glad I didn’t skim like I wanted too! Chapter five finishes up the story of the Prodigal Son focusing on the father’s desire to forgive.
Chapter six speaks of the narrow and wide paths, and speaks against Finny-esque easy believism. He does not (unfortunately) outline a doctrine of substitutionary atonement, but rather focuses on man’s role in forgiveness with God. Which is the point of the book - and it is brief - which is why I’m keeping my “unfortunately” comment in parenthesis. Chapter seven concludes with our response: Seek forgiveness from God and forgive others.
Final Thoughts: throughout my summary, you get some of my opinions. Here are the rest. I really do like this book. Run, don’t walk, to the internet and consider buying it. It’s a really good book. It’s very practical and not theology heavy. You can read the book quickly, I did it in one day. This is somewhat peripheral, but the binding is a little bit cheap. I’ll probably have some loose pages in it because I’m bound to be lending this book out and reading it over again.

[Kelsey Hammett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3/5 ✝️✝️✝️ This is a small little book about what forgiveness is and what it means. It is primary message is how forgiveness fits into the gospel. How we were forgiven even though we did not deserve it and how Jesus paid the price we could not pay. It show how much God love us in Jesus. For those who accept Christ are given forgiveness as Christ atoned for our sins. We can not be own saviour as we can not do anything to pay the price of our sins. It is only when we are born again of Christ that we can be forgive and start a new being delivered from the grave.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The greatest measuring rod of love in the life of a Christian may be forgiveness, because God showed His love to us in terms of forgiveness.” —John MacArthur
Does anyone really want to forgive? Or admit that we need forgiveness? Whether we’re giving or receiving, forgiveness is hard. It seems unfair. It feels unnatural. And as best-selling author and pastor John MacArthur demonstrates, forgiveness apart from Christ is unnatural. It is only as we understand our need, Christ’s power and example, and what it really means to love that we can embrace two of the most liberating acts of love: forgiving and being forgiven.

My husband enjoys listening to John MacArthur and when I told him that The Truth About Forgiveness was available to be reviewed he strongly encouraged me to read it. I chose the ebook version.
As I began to read the first chapter I realized the book was not quite what I thought it would be. Having read other books on forgiveness I thought this would be another “someone did you wrong, God wants you to forgive them” book. It didn’t take long to see that was not where MacArthur would be taking me. I will admit that the first chapter was more “clinical” than I care for but it helped to lay a good, strong foundation for the following 6 chapters.
What I took away from The Truth About Forgiveness was thoughts about my own personal need for forgiveness from God. The teaching on the very familiar story of the Prodigal Son offered some new insight into the story. I had never considered the actions of the father and the repercussions he could have faced. I was also able gleaned more insight into the story about the four friends and the paralytic and the calling of Matthew.
I appreciate the teachings in The Truth About Forgiveness and give the book four stars.
I received this eBook through the Booksneeze program in exchange for an honest review.

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Truth About Forgiveness" by John MacArthur is another book in "The Truth About" trilogy. In this book, the focus is forgiveness, both our need to receive it and to give it. He opens the book with a look at our utter sinfulness and need for a Savior. By starting with a portrait of humanity's total depravity, he sets the stage for the rest of the book: "It is the good news that man's sin can be forgiven, guilt can be removed, life can have meaning, and a hopeful future can be a reality" (p. 16). MacArthur then goes on to show that forgiveness comes from God alone through Jesus Christ and the extent to which we are forgiven. It is a beautiful picture of the love of God toward His people. He brilliantly weaves together our sinfulness, our need for forgiveness, and the grace and love of God poured out on humanity through Jesus Christ.

My two favorite portions of the book were in-depth looks at the story of the paralyzed man (Luke 5) and the story of the prodigal son. He helps the reader to better understand the culture of the day in order to fully grasp the depth and beauty of the story. I now have a much greater appreciation for those stories as a result of the teachings from this book.

It is a quick read, but so rich in its concepts and deep in its teachings. It is a fabulous book for individual study or for a small group study. Either way, it should be a must-read for all serious people of faith!

(I’ve received this complimentary book from Thomas Nelson Publishing House through the Book Sneeze program in exchange for a review. A positive review was not required and the views expressed in my review are strictly my own.)

[V Luttrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book lays out the fundamental importance of God’s forgiveness for the believer and the non-believer. MacArthur addresses several important issues in his seven simple chapters. He opens the book with a look at our utter sinfulness and need for a Savior. By starting with a portrait of humanity's total depravity, he sets the stage for the rest of the book: "It is the good news that man's sin can be forgiven, guilt can be removed, life can have meaning, and a hopeful future can be a reality" (p. 16). MacArthur then goes on to show that forgiveness comes from God alone through Jesus Christ and the extent to which we are forgiven. It is a beautiful picture of the love of God toward His people. He brilliantly weaves together our sinfulness, our need for forgiveness, and the grace and love of God poured out on humanity through Jesus Christ.
It reminded me how Jesus came to forgive sinner. also that I am to follow Him and be like him. Let me leave all my sin to follow after my Lord. . MacArthur went into much detail how God’s forgiveness is undeserved and how God truly wants to forgive, just like in the story of the Prodigal Son. :Let me like Jesus reach out and share the Gospel. First let us confess to each other and to God that we might be forgiven.
MacArthur writes about God’s forgiveness simply yet exactly.
The chapter I found crucial was the last chapter that addressed the need to forgive others. I know that the Lord will give me the strength I need to forgive and to be forgiven by Him.
His way of writing is quick and easy to read and understandable. Every one must read this book!
Thank you Booksneeze for the opportunity to read this book.

[Stephanie Ziegler · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was nothing like I thought it would be. I thought I would be reading a book that gives advice on how to forgive others so I can forgive myself. The book ended up being about how God can only give forgiveness. The author used stories and Scripture from the Bible to explain this. I enjoyed reading the stories. I have never read the Bible (at least, not yet) and enjoy learning in any way I can. The morale of the stories was easy to understand, but the author kept repeating the same things over and over and it annoyed me.

That, however, is the good in the book. By the second page of the book, I was outraged at his opinions about illness and disabilities. He states that all "kinds of immorality and evil conduct are now identified as symptoms of this or that psychological illness." I suffer from a disability. However, I DO NOT blame my disability for things others or I perceive as wrong or sinful. My therapist does not try to bring up other things to continue therapy sessions. My therapist told me to turn to religion and find a church and my life will change for the better. I was very offended by the author right out of the gate, yet I continued the read the book without any bias.

Is this 114-page book worth the $12.99 it states on the back cover? That is for you to decide, but I would tell you to search for a different book on forgiveness. At least one that is more substantial for the price you pay.

If you don't believe me, check it out for yourself!

Until next time, take life one page at a time!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pastor John MacArthur is renowned for his clear and precise teaching of God’s Word. Although this tiny, truth filled book is a tough one to swallow in the opening pages, I believe it is full of sound and true doctrinal statements about forgiveness.

Reiterating that we must first recognize sin as sin, and not gloss it over as a sickness, disease or disorder, The Truth About Forgiveness is hard hitting and convicting. The truth is…we must confess our sin and repent, turning away from that which has ensnared us, by the strength and victory that we receive through Christ Jesus.

The book gives solid evidence that God requires we forgive others. That’s not always easy to do, but it is necessary. As Pastor MacArthur states, “The blood of Christ cries for forgiveness.” (Pg. 113) Contained within these seven short and decisive chapters are a raw and intimate look at God, Christ and the Holy Spirit, and how each plays a part in forgiveness.

The thing I love the most about John MacArthur’s books, especially this one, is his straight forward approach to the Gospel. There’s no glossing over, no making the Christian walk into a life of rainbows and lollipops, but showing me the way to have a deeper and more committed relationship with my Savior.

I received a copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation has been received.

[Brenten Gilbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of why I like John MacArthur is because he doesn’t pull punches. He stays pretty close to the Bible whenever he expounds topically and always provides practical insights and wisdom. I’m currently enjoying a daily dose of his thoughts with Moments of Truth and I always have at least one of his books in my “to-read” stack. This series (The Truth about…), offers a few thematic quick reads (about 100 pages) that cut to the chase on some popular topics.

First on the docket is forgiveness. MacArthur wastes no time before stepping on some toes, implicating modern society for their efforts to remove the need for forgiveness. We already have a built-in defense mechanism, and it’s as old as mankind: passing the blame. Just as Adam passed the blame on to Eve and she passed it on to the serpent, today we blame illness. It’s not “the Devil made me do it” anymore, it’s “the disease made me do it.”

MacArthur cuts through all the excuses to get to the heart of the issue. We all sin and we all need forgiveness. And that’s the essence of our lives. The hope that we have is in knowing that God wants to and has forgiven us. As we become molded more in His likeness, it is our duty (and should be our desire) to forgive others, as well.

- from trudatmusic[dot]com[slash]raw

[Frank Olvera · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "The Truth About Forgiveness" (ISBN 9781400204151, 2012) John MacArthur emphasizes that the American society has adopted the disease model in order to escape the blame. Considering the latter, all deviant acts are mental disorders.

"Disease-model therapy therefore feeds the very problem it is supposed to treat. It alleviates any sense of guilt, while making people feel they are victims, helplessly bound for life to their affliction."

Since we prefer not to accept guilt, we don't feel the need to be forgiven. As such, we don't feel guilt for our sins, repentance and the need to be forgiven. This sort of hits too close to home with all the mental disorders I've been diagnosed with.

"Forgiveness was also one of Jesus’ favorite subjects to preach about. It was one of the key themes in His Sermon on the Mount. It was a focus of the Lord’s Prayer and the subject He expounded on at the end of that prayer (Matthew 6:14–15).

The book repeats the same idea over and over. God's the only one who can forgive our sins as long as we truly repent.

[Nikole Hahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Truth About Forgiveness by John MacArthur is a simple read bringing us back to the reality of forgiveness—what it means to us, what Christ meant, and taking some of the more well-known stories in the Bible, showing us how debase our souls are without Him. We need forgiveness.

It’s more like a book defining forgiveness. I really enjoyed reading it. There was a lot of power packed into the short 114 pages. Instead of going on and on about it, I’ll leave you with a quote:

“I know this shocks some people, because we hear all the time that getting saved is pretty easy. ‘Just sign this little card!’ ‘Just raise your hand!’ ‘Just walk down that aisle while the choir sings one more stanza!’ ‘Just recite this prayer.’ ‘Just ask Jesus into your heart.’ It all sounds simple. The only problem is that none of those actions has anything to do with real salvation and getting through the narrow gate. That sort of invitationalism implies that Jesus is some poor pitiful Savior, waiting for us to make the first move to allow Him His way. It implies that salvation hinges on a human decision, as if the power that saves us were the power of human ‘free will.’” – Pg. 89

[Chickadee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Readers of John MacArthur will enjoy his timeless, classic writing in The Truth About Series. This particular title focuses on forgiveness, and not only our need for forgiveness, but our need to forgive others.

If you have bitterness in your heart or are holding a grudge, this book combines scripture and spiritual wisdom on how to remove those bondages from your life. MacArthur doesn’t pull any punches about how critical forgiveness is – he states, “if a lack of forgiveness is characteristic of your life, you may not be a Christian.” He also takes readers step by step through the experience of being forgiven by God, and how only God can forgive and atone our sin.

This book reaffirms that there is meaning to life, hope after death and we do not have to live with guilt and condemnation. This book would make a great gift for a new convert, or for someone wanting to study the foundational teachings of what it means to be a Christian.