Project – Biblical references: Biblical Foundations of Forgiveness: A Comparative Study of Old and New Testament Teachings
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Forgiveness is a central theme in the Bible, intricately woven through both the Old and New Testaments. It is not merely a moral ideal but a divine mandate that reflects God’s nature and will for humanity. In both Testaments, forgiveness is portrayed as essential for spiritual health, community well-being, and covenant relationship with God. However, the conceptualization and expression of forgiveness vary between the Testaments, influenced by covenantal contexts, theological emphases, and cultural realities.
In the Old Testament, forgiveness is closely linked with the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, primarily mediated through the sacrificial system and the observance of the Law. The Hebrew word salah, often used for divine forgiveness, conveys the idea of pardon and mercy, which comes solely from God (Exodus 34:6–7; Psalm 103:3). The system of atonement, particularly through the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), offered a communal avenue for seeking God’s forgiveness (Leviticus 16:30–34).
Conversely, the New Testament presents forgiveness in light of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The Greek term aphesis, meaning release or remission, is used extensively to describe what God offers through Christ’s atonement (Luke 24:47; Ephesians 1:7). Forgiveness becomes both a divine gift and a human responsibility, with Jesus emphasizing interpersonal forgiveness as a reflection of divine mercy (Matthew 6:14–15; Luke 17:3–4).
This comparative study seeks to explore the theological foundations, practical implications, and transformative power of forgiveness as presented in both Testaments, highlighting continuity and progression in biblical theology.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the prominent place of forgiveness in the Christian faith, many believers struggle with understanding its depth and application across the biblical narrative. There exists a perceived dichotomy between the seemingly legalistic model of the Old Testament and the grace-centered model of the New Testament. This has led to confusion regarding the consistency of God’s nature and expectations across the covenants. How can one reconcile the sacrificial requirements in Leviticus with the unmerited pardon in Christ? Furthermore, the ethical call to forgive others appears more pronounced in the New Testament, raising questions about the moral demand placed on believers today.
Thus, there is a need for a comparative theological exploration of forgiveness in both Testaments, to provide clarity and deepen the believer’s appreciation of God’s consistent character and redemptive purposes.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to examine the biblical foundations of forgiveness by comparing its teachings in the Old and New Testaments. The specific objectives include:
To explore the theological understanding of forgiveness in the Old Testament.
To analyze the teachings and practice of forgiveness in the New Testament.
To identify similarities and differences in the presentation of forgiveness across the Testaments.
To draw implications for Christian life and spiritual growth from both Testaments’ teachings.
1.4 Research Questions
This study seeks to answer the following questions:
What is the theological and ritual basis of forgiveness in the Old Testament?
How does the New Testament define and demonstrate forgiveness through Jesus Christ?
In what ways are the concepts of forgiveness similar or different between the Old and New Testaments?
What lessons can modern Christians draw from the biblical teaching on forgiveness?
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study holds significant theological and pastoral relevance. First, it contributes to biblical scholarship by offering a systematic comparison of forgiveness across the Testaments. Second, it provides clarity for believers and church leaders on how to approach forgiveness in their walk with God and others. Third, in a world plagued by bitterness, resentment, and broken relationships, understanding and practicing forgiveness is vital for healing and reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18–19). By rooting forgiveness in the whole counsel of Scripture, the study offers a balanced perspective that honors the integrity of the Bible’s message.
1.6 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on key texts and themes related to forgiveness in the Old and New Testaments. It examines narratives, laws, prophecies, teachings of Jesus, and apostolic writings that address forgiveness. While the study is theological in nature, it also reflects on practical and pastoral implications. It does not explore forgiveness in non-biblical religions or secular psychological perspectives.
1.7 Methodology
The study adopts a theological and exegetical approach, drawing on biblical texts, scholarly commentaries, and theological works. Key passages such as Psalm 51, Leviticus 16, Isaiah 1:18, Matthew 6:14–15, Luke 15, and Colossians 3:13 will be analyzed. Comparative analysis will be used to identify theological continuity and discontinuity between the Testaments.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Forgiveness: The act of pardoning an offense, canceling a debt, or restoring a broken relationship.
Old Testament: The first major division of the Christian Bible, consisting of texts originally written in Hebrew and Aramaic.
New Testament: The second part of the Christian Bible, written in Greek, that records the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early church.
Atonement: A biblical term referring to the reconciliation between God and humanity, often involving the removal of sin through sacrifice.
Covenant: A sacred agreement between God and His people that defines their relationship and responsibilities.
1.9 Biblical References
Some foundational biblical references that guide this study include:
Old Testament:
Exodus 34:6–7: “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth… forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…”
Leviticus 16:30: “For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you…”
Psalm 103:12: “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”
Isaiah 1:18: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…”
New Testament:
Matthew 6:14–15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you…”
Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another… as the Lord forgave you.”