Many thought that as religion declined, humans would experience less guilt in their lives. Instead, guilt has increased in surprising ways. We all want to experience the freedom of forgiveness, but the options to deal with guilt in our culture don’t satisfy. Christianity, by exposing the reality of our guilt and showing us the reality of God’s grace, provides genuine freedom from guilt not just for a moment but forever.

1. What does the experience of guilt look like for you?
2. What of the current options—denial, rationalizing, atonement—are you most tempted to use to deal with guilt?
3. How does the gospel provide a better way to handle guilt?
4. What can you do practically to enjoy forgiveness this week?