Author-R.T.Kendall
Publisher-Charisma House
ISBN-0-88419-889-8
R.T. Kendall has authored numerous books but regards this one as the most important that he has written. This is one which all should read. Based in part upon God’s dealings in a time of crisis in his own life the book is a biblical exposition on the necessity of forgiveness towards all. It is not a book about God’s forgiveness of ourselves, so much as the fruit of that forgiveness, namely, that we being forgiven should forgive totally and unconditionally those who have hurt and harmed us. Total forgiveness is a state in which people are to live, in which they have to live if they are to be set free. The author speaks of his own experience of this reality and the liberty he has enjoyed. Total forgiveness is not easy, he says, but is the basic to the Christian life. The emotional, physical and spiritual consequences of unforgiveness are discussed. The word ‘total’ should not be passed over lightly. Does God’s forgiveness depend upon our repentance or is it a state and condition of His heart towards those who have sinned against him? Is half hearted forgiveness acceptable as our heart state towards those who have wounded us? There is plain speaking in this book and it is powerful in application to those who will read it and receive its message. This central truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ has been neglected, its teaching and practice in the life of churches overshadowed by many other aspects of truth. Anyone reading this book will find it heart searching, challenging, and if its teaching is followed, it will be life changing. Total forgiveness of others is one of our greatest personal needs. With straightforward instruction the author exposes the roots of the frequent and continuing animosities which are present in the churches. His writing is with encouragement and inspires faith. There is nothing that matters more than understanding and living in forgiveness, even though there may not be full reconciliation for that involves both sides of a dispute, the one who forgives from their heart can enjoy the liberty of children of God. We live in a world of betrayal and hurt, there are personal attacks which wound indescribably but here are biblical and practical instructions as to how we may live with tender and clear hearts in the forgiving love of God.
