Bad Religion · Week 1 · Day 4: Forgiven Much, Loving Much

Bad Religion · Judgment Without Grace · October 11, 2026

Read: Luke 7:41–47; Colossians 2:13–14

Jesus tells Simon about two people who owe money. One owes five hundred denarii; the other owes fifty. The amounts are different, but neither person can repay the debt. The lender cancels both. Jesus then asks which person will love the lender more. Simon answers that it will be the one whose larger debt was forgiven.

It is easy to become preoccupied with the size of someone else’s debt. We compare histories, habits, and reputations. We congratulate ourselves for avoiding certain failures. But the detail we cannot afford to miss is that neither debtor could pay.

We need forgiveness, too. A respectable appearance cannot settle our debt before God. Recognizing that need makes room for gratitude. We begin to see how patiently God has met us, including in the places we have been slow to acknowledge.

The cross shows us the cost of sin and the depth of God’s grace together. Jesus gives himself for us. Colossians describes God forgiving our trespasses and canceling the record of debt, nailing it to the cross. We can face the seriousness of our sin because Christ has made a way for forgiveness.

The woman’s love in Luke 7 is a response to forgiveness. Jesus points to her faith at the end of the encounter; her tears are not a payment that purchases his mercy. As we remember the grace we have received, gratitude can become love for God and patience with one another.

Reflect: Where have you begun to think of grace as something you needed long ago? What do you need to thank God for today?

Practice: Privately name three ways God has shown you mercy. Thank him for each one. Then choose one practical expression of gratitude: patient listening, a sincere apology, or an act of care.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for giving yourself for us. Help us see the debt we could never repay and receive your forgiveness with gratitude. Let the mercy we receive become love we give. Amen. 

Watch this week’s sermon: Judgment Without Grace