Examples of forgiveness in the Bible

         Here are several powerful examples of forgiveness in the Bible, showing how God and people extended mercy and grace even in difficult situations:

1. Joseph Forgives His Brothers (Genesis 45:1–15)

         Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery out of jealousy. Years later, he became a powerful ruler in Egypt and had the chance to take revenge. Instead, he forgave them and provided for their families.

    “Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.” Genesis 45:5 (ESV)

         Forgiveness releases healing and fulfills God’s bigger purpose.

2. Esau Forgives Jacob (Genesis 33:1–11)

         Jacob tricked Esau out of his birthright and blessing. Fearing revenge, Jacob approached Esau after many years. Instead of retaliation, Esau embraced him with love.

    “Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept.” Genesis 33:4 (NIV)

         True forgiveness can restore broken family ties.

3. David Spares Saul’s Life (1 Samuel 24)

         King Saul tried to kill David multiple times out of jealousy. When David had the opportunity to kill Saul, he refused, saying he would not harm the Lord’s anointed.

    “May the Lord judge between you and me. And may the Lord avenge me on you, but my hand shall not be against you.” 1 Samuel 24:12 (NKJV)

         Forgiveness can involve letting go of revenge even when it's within your power.

4. Jesus Forgives the Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:1–11)

         A woman caught in adultery was brought before Jesus for condemnation. Instead of approving of her stoning, Jesus challenged her accusers and then forgave her.

    “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” John 8:11 (NKJV)

         Jesus shows both mercy and a call to repentance.

5. The Prodigal Son and His Father (Luke 15:11–32)

        A young man squandered his inheritance in reckless living. When he returned home, his father ran to him, embraced him, and celebrated his return.

    “For this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” Luke 15:24 (KJV)

         God’s forgiveness is full of joy, restoration, and love.

6. Stephen Forgives His Killers (Acts 7:54–60)

         As Stephen was being stoned to death for preaching Christ, he prayed for God to forgive those who were killing him.

    “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Acts 7:60 (NIV)

         Forgiveness is possible even in suffering and persecution.

7. Jesus Forgives His Crucifiers (Luke 23:34)

         While hanging on the cross, Jesus asked God to forgive those who were executing Him.

    “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 (NIV)

         Christ set the ultimate example of forgiveness under extreme injustice.

8. God Forgives David’s Sin (2 Samuel 12:13)

         After committing adultery and murder, David confessed his sin. God forgave him, though there were still consequences.

    “The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die.” 2 Samuel 12:13 (ESV)

         No sin is too great for God's mercy when there is true repentance.

9. Peter is Forgiven and Restored by Jesus (John 21:15–19)

         Peter denied Jesus three times during His trial. After the resurrection, Jesus forgave and restored Peter by asking him to reaffirm his love and calling him to feed His sheep.

    “Feed my sheep.” John 21:17 (NIV)

         Forgiveness can restore purpose and leadership.

10. Man Forgiven a Great Debt (Parable – Matthew 18:21–35)

         A king forgives a servant’s huge debt. But when that servant refuses to forgive a fellow servant's small debt, he is judged.

    “Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?” Matthew 18:33 (NIV)

         God expects us to forgive others just as He forgives us.

         These examples show that forgiveness is not weakness—it is strength, love, and obedience. Whether it’s forgiving family betrayal, personal attacks, or grave sin, the Bible proves that forgiveness can heal relationships, restore destiny, and draw us closer to God. As we have been forgiven, so should we forgive.

    Colossians 3:13 (NIV): “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”