Life situation · Relationships and family
Bible Verses for When You Need to Forgive Someone
For when you are struggling to forgive: Jesus’ teaching on forgiving others, Joseph’s forgiveness that took time, and why forgiving is not excusing or staying unsafe.
Editorial text in English. Scripture is quoted from the version you choose; references stay the same in every version.
Introduction
Jesus speaks often about forgiving others, and the Bible does not pretend it is easy. Peter asks how many times he must forgive; Joseph weeps and tests his brothers before he trusts them. Matthew 18:21–22Genesis 42:24
These passages show forgiveness rooted in God’s forgiveness, and they leave justice in God’s hands.
Passages to read
What each passage addresses in its own setting, and why it is relevant here. Read the surrounding verses too.
Matthew 18:21–35 Central teaching
What it addresses: Peter asks how often he must forgive, and Jesus tells a parable about a forgiven servant who will not forgive.
Why it is relevant: Forgiveness flows from having been forgiven a far greater debt.
Colossians 3:12–14 Central teaching
What it addresses: Paul describes how believers should treat one another.
Why it is relevant: Bear with one another and forgive, as the Lord forgave you.
Luke 6:27–28 Central teaching
What it addresses: Jesus teaches love for enemies.
Why it is relevant: Bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you.
Romans 12:17–21 Central teaching
What it addresses: Paul on responding to evil.
Why it is relevant: Do not take revenge; leave room for God’s judgment. Forgiveness does not deny justice; it hands it to God.
Genesis 50:15–21 Narrative example
What it addresses: After their father’s death, Joseph’s brothers fear his revenge.
Why it is relevant: Joseph refuses revenge and provides for them: “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”
Luke 23:33–34 Narrative example
What it addresses: Jesus is crucified.
Why it is relevant: Luke records his prayer, “Father, forgive them.” Some early manuscripts lack this sentence.
Ephesians 4:31–32 Central teaching
What it addresses: Paul on bitterness and kindness.
Why it is relevant: Put away bitterness and anger; forgive as God in Christ forgave you.
Stories to read
Biblical narratives that involve the same experience. They describe what happened to particular people; they are not promises about every situation.
- Joseph and His Brothers Illustrates the theme
Forgiveness that takes time and testing. Genesis 42:24Genesis 50:21
- The Prodigal Son
A father’s ready forgiveness. Luke 15:20
People in Scripture who faced this
- Joseph
Joseph forgives his brothers. Genesis 50:19–21
- Stephen
Stephen prays for those killing him. Acts 7:60
Connected themes
- Forgiveness
The theme across Scripture. Ephesians 4:32
- Reconciliation
Forgiveness and reconciliation are related but different. Romans 12:18
Questions for reflection
Optional. Written by BibleKenya editors; they are not Scripture. Your answers are not collected.
- Why does the servant in Matthew 18:23-35 fail to forgive?
- What did Joseph do before he trusted his brothers again (Genesis 42–44)?
- What does Romans 12:19 say to do with the desire for revenge?
- What would one small step toward forgiveness look like for you?
A short reading plan
Ticks are kept on this device only.
Related situations
- Betrayal
When you are trying to forgive. Colossians 3:13
- Family Conflict
When you need to forgive a family member. Colossians 3:13
Longer reading plans
- Understanding Forgiveness
If you are struggling to forgive. Colossians 3:13
Scripture, editorial reflection and professional advice are different things. The passages are quoted from the Bible version you choose; the explanations are BibleKenya’s; for health, legal, financial or safety decisions, seek qualified help.