Forgiveness is one of the most challenging yet freeing acts we’re called to as followers of Christ. Whether you’ve been hurt by someone close or struggle with your own mistakes, the Bible speaks directly to your heart.
The truth behind the “forgive and you will be forgiven” Bible verse isn’t just a command—it’s a key to peace, restoration, and freedom.
When we forgive others, we mirror the mercy God extends to us every day. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the pain or pretending everything is okay. It means choosing love over bitterness, trusting God with justice, and allowing healing to begin.
In this post, we’ll look at 35 Bible verses about forgiveness to help you better understand what it means to forgive and be forgiven.
35 Bible Verses About Forgiving and Being Forgiven
1. Luke 6:37
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Explanation: Jesus teaches that our actions toward others—especially in forgiveness—have spiritual consequences and rewards.
2. Matthew 6:14
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Explanation: God’s forgiveness flows through us when we’re willing to forgive others.
3. Matthew 6:15
But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Explanation: Refusing to forgive blocks the flow of God’s grace in our own lives.
4. Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Explanation: We forgive not because people deserve it, but because God forgave us first.
5. Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another…Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Explanation: Forgiveness is a daily, intentional act of love that reflects God’s character.
6. Mark 11:25
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them…
Explanation: Forgiveness is essential for our prayers to be heard and answered.
7. Matthew 18:21-22
…“Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister…? Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Explanation: Forgiveness is limitless—Jesus calls us to keep extending grace.
8. Luke 17:3-4
…If they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times…forgive them.
Explanation: True forgiveness is repeated and patient, even when others fail often.
9. James 2:13
…mercy triumphs over judgment.
Explanation: Choosing mercy over resentment brings us closer to God’s heart.
10. Psalm 103:12
As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
Explanation: God’s forgiveness is complete—He doesn’t hold our sins over us.
11. Isaiah 1:18
…Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…
Explanation: God promises full cleansing and restoration for the truly repentant.
12. Micah 7:18
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression…?
Explanation: God delights in showing mercy, and we’re called to do the same.
13. Proverbs 17:9
Whoever would foster love covers over an offense…
Explanation: Love and forgiveness go hand in hand—it’s how relationships survive and grow.
14. Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Explanation: Forgiveness opens us up to receive even more of God’s mercy in return.
15. Romans 12:17-19
Do not repay anyone evil for evil…leave room for God’s wrath…
Explanation: Forgiveness releases us from vengeance and leaves justice in God’s hands.
16. 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins…
Explanation: God is always ready to forgive us when we come to Him sincerely.
17. Psalm 32:1
Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven…
Explanation: There’s deep joy and peace in being forgiven.
18. Daniel 9:9
The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
Explanation: God’s forgiveness doesn’t depend on our worthiness—it’s rooted in His mercy.
19. 2 Chronicles 7:14
…turn from their wicked ways. Then I will hear…and will forgive their sin…
Explanation: National and personal healing starts with repentance and God’s forgiveness.
20. Acts 3:19
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…
Explanation: Forgiveness brings spiritual renewal and freedom.
21. Hebrews 8:12
For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.
Explanation: God’s forgiveness is so deep that He chooses not to recall our sins.
22. Isaiah 43:25
I…blot out your transgressions…and remembers your sins no more.
Explanation: God’s forgiveness wipes our slate clean, never to be used against us again.
23. Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
Explanation: Even in agony, Jesus chose to forgive. He’s our perfect example.
24. Acts 10:43
…everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.
Explanation: Forgiveness is available to everyone who believes in Jesus.
25. Matthew 26:28
This is my blood…poured out…for the forgiveness of sins.
Explanation: Jesus’ sacrifice was made so we could be fully forgiven.
26. Psalm 130:3-4
If you, Lord, kept a record of sins…But with you there is forgiveness…
Explanation: God doesn’t hold our failures against us—He forgives and restores.
27. Romans 4:7
Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
Explanation: True blessing comes from being set free from guilt through God’s grace.
28. Jeremiah 31:34
…I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.
Explanation: This repeated promise shows God’s heart for restoring broken lives.
29. Matthew 18:35
…forgive your brother or sister from your heart.
Explanation: Forgiveness must be genuine—it’s not just about words, but heart change.
30. Leviticus 19:18
…Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge…but love your neighbor as yourself.
Explanation: Forgiveness is tied directly to love and obedience to God’s law.
31. 2 Corinthians 2:7
…you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed…
Explanation: Forgiveness restores relationships and gives people hope.
32. Galatians 6:1
…if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.
Explanation: Forgiveness opens the door to restoration, not condemnation.
33. Luke 6:31
Do to others as you would have them do to you.
Explanation: Forgiveness is part of the golden rule—it’s how we want to be treated too.
34. Matthew 5:23-24
First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
Explanation: God values reconciliation over ritual—relationships matter deeply to Him.
35. Romans 12:20
…If your enemy is hungry, feed him…overcome evil with good.
Explanation: Forgiveness shows up in practical ways—loving even those who’ve hurt us.
Conclusion
Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it’s always freeing. The Bible makes it clear: if we want to be forgiven, we must forgive. These 35 forgive and you will be forgiven Bible verses remind us that forgiveness brings peace, heals hearts, and reflects the character of Christ.
As you reflect on these scriptures, ask yourself: Is there someone I need to forgive? Am I holding onto pain that God wants to heal? He’s ready to help you release it—and when you do, you’ll find deeper joy and spiritual breakthrough.
Which verse stood out to you the most today? Share your thoughts, personal stories, or favorite scriptures in the comments below. Let’s walk this journey of grace and forgiveness together.