Non-Forgiveness Ministries Resources

We have reviewed the resources listed below and have found them helpful in reinforcing the development of a lifestyle of biblical forgiveness.  We have included a brief description for each of the resource and a link for further information and a means by which you may order that resource from another ministry or company.  These are not Forgiveness Ministry resources, but we recommend them as helpful and supportive of our message.

Books

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

The overall theme of this book may be summed up in the statement, "it's impossible to be spiritually mature, while remaining emotionally immature," or emotionally wounded.  The author describes how emotional damage affects spiritual growth and suggests an excellent plan for healing and transformation.

The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith

Many people struggle deeply with false ideas about God, making it more difficult for them to draw near to God, trust God or to practice forgiveness.  The author does an excellent job of correcting many of those commonly heald, but unbiblical, and even hurtful notions about the character of God.

The Prisoner in the Third Cell by Gene Edwards

Jesus said that John the Baptist was the greatest prophet of all, and yet even John struggled with his understanding of Jesus when he experienced pain and loss.  In this book the author helps us to hear and feel the empathy of God in our times of suffering.

The Shack by Wm. Paul Young

In this emotionally powerful book, the authors tells a ficticious story about a man who struggles with anger and resentment towards God.  God eventually shows up, face to face, in unexpected forms and ways, to help him to discover the tender heart of God towards all people, especially in our times of suffering.

Fifty Reasons Why Jesus Came to Die by John Piper

The Cross of Jesus Christ is the single most amazing event in all of history.  And while we at Forgiveness Ministries emphasize 6 to 10 of the benefits of the Cross, the author of this book briefly describes fifty different reasons why Jesus came to die.

Making Small Groups Work by Cloud and Townsend

Many churches promote small groups as an end in themselves.  In this book the authors explain why God is able to use small groups so powerfully, and how to facilitate healthy, life-transforming small groups.

DVD Lessons and Series

The Easter Experience by City on a Hill Productions

This series is a six part, DVD and discussion for small groups, but my be used by one person.  It is a brilliant examination of the difference Jesus makes in human history and personal lives.  It is of the highest quality, filmed on site in Jerusalem and often excellently dramatized.  The violence of the Cross requires caution and discretion for viewing.

Lump by NOOMA

This is a great, 12 minute, true story about a father and his little daughter depicting the wonderful and unconditional love God has for all of His children.  It is a great discussion starter and comes with questions for individuals and small groups.

Luggage by NOOMA

This is another great discussion starter, this time about the baggage we all carry when we do not practice forgiveness.  The ending will surpise you.

Movies

The Passion of the Christ by 20th Century Fox

This intense (not to be viewed by everyone) dipiction of the sufferings and crucifixion of Jesus Christ can drive home the painful anguish of God at the Cross.  This movie is for those who may be having a difficult time connecting the intensity of their own anger and hurt with the mere words that "Jesus died for sins."  The violence of the Cross requires caution and discretion for viewing.  It is rated R for violence.

Les Miserables by Columbia Pictures

This is a story about a criminal, who became transformed through the experience of real forgiveness from the one he ropped and attacked.  A great illustation of how evil is defeated through love working thorugh forgiveness.  It is rated PG-13.

The Kid by Walt Disney

A for fun movie that help us to see how our past contributed to who we are today, and how facing our past can lead to a better tomorrow.  It is rated PG.

To End All Wars 20th Century Fox

This is a true story that takes place in a Japanese prisoner of war camp in which the Allied prisoners suffer terrible violence.  However, one man, transformed by Jesus, follows His example of loving his enemies, even unto death.  Many are changed forever by the self-sacrifice of one man.  It is rated R for violence.  Use discretion.

As We Forgive by Living Bricks

This is a straight forward documentary about two Rwandan women who had to face the murderers of their family members after the end of the 1994 genocide.  It is a good discussion focus for those who have already begun to practice forgiveness.  The film is unrated, but shows some real violence.  Use discretion.