Re:generation | The True Meaning of Forgiveness & Amends | Matthew 18 Explained

 In this week’s Region message, Pastor Jeff unpacks the heart of Matthew 18, revealing the biblical path to forgiveness, making amends, and finding true freedom in Christ. Whether you’re joining us online, from the Independence Campus, Tipton Correctional Facility, or as a special guest from Lifegate Church Nebraska, we’re glad you’re here!

Last week, we celebrated an amazing VBS with hundreds of kids and families—lives were changed, and many accepted Christ! Now, we’re back in our “Stepping Through the Gospels” series, focusing on steps 8 and 9 of the 12-step process: forgiveness and amends. Pastor Jeff shares personal stories and deep biblical insight, challenging us to move beyond surface-level forgiveness and step into authentic reconciliation.

What you’ll learn in this message:

• The real context of “where two or three are gathered” in Matthew 18
• How Jesus calls us to humility, repentance, and community accountability
• The difference between being hurt and being sinned against—and why it matters
• The biblical meaning of “binding and loosing” and how it applies to forgiveness
• Why refusing to forgive keeps us in bondage, and how community helps us break free
• Practical steps for making amends—even when the other person doesn’t respond

This teaching is for anyone struggling with anxiety, control, shame, or broken relationships. Discover how God uses community, honesty, and humility to set us free from the past and empower us to walk in new life.