12 Bible Verses About Unforgiveness

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Bible verses about unforgiveness

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about unforgiveness:

1. Matthew 6:14-15 – “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
2. Mark 11:25 – “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
3. Ephesians 4:32 – “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”
4. Colossians 3:13 – “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”
5. Luke 6:37 – “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.”
6. Matthew 18:21-22 – “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”

7. James 5:16 – “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
8. Proverbs 17:9 – “He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.”
9. Romans 12:19 – “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
10. 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
11. Luke 17:3-4 – “Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.”
12. Hebrews 12:14-15 – “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.”

What does the bible say about unforgiveness?

The Bible teaches that unforgiveness is a sin and can lead to bitterness, resentment, and a hardened heart.

It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness as a way to release anger and hurt, and to restore relationships.

Jesus Christ himself forgave those who crucified him, setting an example for us to follow.

The Bible also warns that if we do not forgive others, God will not forgive us.

It encourages us to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God.

Ultimately, forgiveness is seen as a way to experience freedom, peace, and healing in our lives.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about unforgiveness?

1. Matthew 18:21-35 – This chapter includes the parable of the unforgiving servant, which highlights the importance of forgiveness and the consequences of holding onto unforgiveness. It emphasizes the need to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God.

2. Ephesians 4:31-32 – This chapter discusses the importance of letting go of bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness, and instead choosing to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving towards others. It emphasizes the need to forgive others as God has forgiven us.

3. Colossians 3:12-13 – This chapter encourages believers to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving each other as the Lord has forgiven them. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in maintaining unity and peace within the body of Christ.

Reading these chapters can provide a deeper understanding of the negative effects of unforgiveness and the importance of extending forgiveness to others as a reflection of God’s grace and mercy towards us.

Ideas and concepts related to unforgiveness that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Bitterness: Bitterness is a feeling of resentment or anger that can arise from holding onto unforgiveness. In the Bible, bitterness is warned against in passages such as Ephesians 4:31-32, which instructs believers to “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Bitterness can prevent us from extending forgiveness to others and can ultimately harm our own well-being.

2. Resentment: Resentment is a feeling of indignation or ill will towards someone due to a perceived wrong or injustice. In the Bible, resentment is often linked to unforgiveness, as harboring resentment can prevent us from extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us. Colossians 3:13 instructs believers to “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Resentment can hinder our ability to forgive and move forward in our relationships.

3. Judgment: Judgment is the act of forming an opinion or making a decision about someone based on our own standards or beliefs. In the Bible, judgment is often cautioned against in relation to unforgiveness. Matthew 7:1-2 warns, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” When we hold onto unforgiveness, we may be quick to judge others and fail to extend the same grace and forgiveness that we have received from God.

Overall, these concepts of bitterness, resentment, and judgment are closely related to unforgiveness in the Bible. They can hinder our ability to extend forgiveness to others and can ultimately harm our own spiritual well-being. By letting go of these negative emotions and attitudes, we can experience the freedom and healing that comes from extending forgiveness as we have been forgiven by God.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.