Acts: Life On Mission – Week 9 – Why You Mad Bro?

Why You Mad Bro?

In this week’s message, “Why You Mad, Bro?,” we continue in Acts 7, exploring the transformative power of forgiveness and the risks of holding onto anger, resentment, and hurt. Drawing from Stephen’s powerful story, we delve into how unaddressed bitterness impacts us spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—and how we can choose a path of freedom.

Understanding the Weight of Resentment
Life brings its share of challenges, and sometimes the hurt caused by others becomes a lingering weight. The sermon opens by examining how unresolved anger or bitterness can create spiritual obstacles and rob us of joy. Real-life examples bring to light how letting go is crucial to finding peace, reconnecting with God, and living fully on mission.

Stephen’s Example of Radical Forgiveness
Acts 7:57-60 captures the final moments of Stephen’s life, where he prays for his persecutors, asking God not to hold their actions against them. His forgiveness, even in the face of death, serves as a powerful example of the freedom and peace that forgiveness brings. Through Stephen’s story, we learn that forgiveness isn’t about denying our pain—it’s about refusing to let it control us.

Three Steps Toward Forgiveness
The message offers a practical approach to breaking free from resentment, drawn from biblical teachings on forgiveness:

1. Understand Forgiveness: True forgiveness requires understanding. God’s Word gives a clear call to release resentment and trust Him with justice. Divine and human forgiveness are different yet interconnected, as we release others to find healing ourselves.
2. Make a Decision to Forgive: Scripture calls us to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22), a profound reminder of our need to choose forgiveness repeatedly. This commitment means deciding, even in difficult circumstances, to set ourselves free from anger’s hold.
3. Create a Forgiveness Prayer: Forgiveness is a journey, and a written prayer of forgiveness can be a powerful tool for continual healing. This prayer serves as a reminder of our commitment to release resentment and move forward in grace.

Take the Step Toward Forgiveness
Stephen’s prayer during his stoning echoes Jesus’ teachings, reminding us that forgiveness leads to life and healing. Taking the initial step—whether by crafting a prayer, writing a letter, or seeking God’s strength—can be a tangible move toward breaking free. The sermon emphasizes that, while forgiveness may feel challenging, it’s an essential part of spiritual growth.

Key Scriptures:

• Acts 7:57-60 – Stephen’s final act of forgiveness during his stoning.
• Mark 11:25 – “Whenever you stand praying, forgive…”
• Matthew 18:21-22 – Forgiving “seventy times seven.”
• Matthew 5:6 – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…”

Let us follow Stephen’s example, choosing to lay aside our hurt and embrace the freedom that comes with forgiveness.

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