Why Forgiveness Costs Something - Colossians 3:12–15 - Mike Woodruff

Forgiveness is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the Christian life — and one of the most demanding. In this message, we unpack what forgiveness actually is (and isn't), why it's a uniquely Christian calling rooted in the grace we've already received, and how to walk through it even when the hurt runs deep. Using the remarkable story of Holocaust survivor Corrie ten Boom, we explore what it looks like to forgive the unforgivable — not through willpower alone, but through the power of Christ working in us. This is part four of our series on forgiveness. We define key distinctions that often get confused: forgiveness is not the same as reconciliation, and it doesn't erase real-world consequences. We walk through the REACH model — a research-backed, biblically grounded framework for processing deep wounds — and look at Colossians 3 to understand why our identity in Christ is the foundation for extending grace to others. Whether you're just beginning to consider forgiving someone who has wronged you, or you've been stuck in bitterness for years, this message offers both a theological anchor and a practical path forward. 📖 Looking for small group resources to go deeper with this topic? Visit: https://christchurchil.org/watch-list...