Last week we focused our attention on the disposition of “Patience,” and we realized that we need to be patient with God as we wait for Him to respond to circumstances that are troubling us. We are all aware that learning to wait on God is a challenge, even though we know that He is present “behind the scenes” working out His purposes in the trials and sufferings we face. Related to our need for “Patience” is our need for “Forbearance,” so let’s dive in.

What does the Bible mean by “forbearance?” “Forbearance” points to the deliberate restraint from acting harshly or delivering immediate judgment. You can readily see that “forbearance” is one of God’s character traits, embodying both mercy and tolerance as God deals with the failures and shortcomings of the human race. In this sense, “forbearance” highlights God’s character as being slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Paul wrote to the church in Rome,

“Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4).

The noun “forbearance” comes from the Greek word anoche, which means toleration or restraint. As we have seen, “forbearance” is one of the aspects of God’s character, as he exercises restraint in immediately judging sinful humanity. The verb “to bear with” in the Greek is anechomai and conveys the idea of enduring something that is unpleasant and difficult.

To “bear with one another” in Scripture is an exhortation for all of us to be patient and tolerant of others, knowing that enduring the differences of others contributes to maintaining unity in the Body of Christ. Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus:

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2).

In similar fashion, Paul exhorted the believers in the Colossian church to:

“Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

These verses form the backbone of the biblical concept of “forbearance” among believers. The repetition of the command in both of Paul’s letters points to the importance of “forbearance” in the church. “Forbearance” suggests an active commitment to tolerate the weaknesses and differences of others. But why would Paul need to exhort first-century believers to do that?

First century believers lived in a society marked by a variety of cultures and diverse ethnic groups, not to mention the tensions between the Jewish and Gentile believers. That’s why the Apostle Paul encouraged “forbearance” to protect and strengthen the fellowship of believers. All of his exhortations to “bear with one another” helped to maintain church unity in spite of differences in ethnic or religious backgrounds and even personal convictions. These exhortations toward “forbearance” was used by Paul to mirror God’s enduring “forbearance” toward us. When we exercise “forbearance” in our lives, we are modeling the grace that we ourselves have received from God.

Let’s keep in mind that maintaining unity in the church does not rest upon uniform agreement in every area of theology or practice, but upon our shared faith in Christ’s redemptive work on the cross. Learning to “bear with one another” diffuses hostility and provides a witness to the world of God’s transforming grace. Exhibiting “forbearance” means that we are accepting others as they are, just as Jesus did.

The Apostle Paul also calls us to,

“Accept one another, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (Romans 15:5-7).

We must always keep in mind that “acceptance” does not necessarily mean “approval” of thought or behavior. Jesus “accepted” everyone, but He certainly didn’t approve of everyone’s behaviors. Christ-honoring fellowship is only possible when believers accept and “bear with” one another in a spirit of love, acceptance, and forgiveness. After all, as Paul wrote to the Ephesians, we are to,

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

Therefore friends, whenever conflicts or disagreements arise, let’s make a point of exercising “forbearance,” refusing to judge or condemn others for their differences of opinion on “non-essential” matters of our common faith. And let’s remember that “forbearance” also implores us to endure and be patient with other believers, thus promoting fellowship and love in the Body of Christ.

Hope to see you next week.