Freedom from Bitterness: Journey to Freedom

Download the sermon guide to print here.

In this sermon, Pastor Jason Ramos explores the challenging topic of freedom from bitterness. Drawing from personal experiences and Scripture, he guides us through the process of identifying unforgiveness in our lives and embracing the transformative power of God’s grace. This discussion guide will help us go deeper into the sermon’s core messages, encouraging us to confront our own struggles with bitterness and discover the liberating path of forgiveness.

This sermon emphasizes:

• Bitterness is defined as unresolved anger, disappointment and resentment
• Unforgiveness can create roots of bitterness that affect us and others around us
• God calls us to forgive—not just because it’s right but because it brings freedom
• God’s grace enables us to forgive others just as He has forgiven us
• Mercy received should lead to mercy extended to others
• Confession, repentance and replacing bitterness with God’s truth are key steps to freedom

Key Scriptures:

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil.” — Ephesians 4:26-27 (NASB1995)

“Therefore having been justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.” — Romans 5:1-2 (NASB1995)

“This you know my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.” — James 1:19-20 (NASB1995)

“He has told you O man what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justice to love kindness And to walk humbly with your God?” — Micah 6:8 (NASB1995)

Table Questions:

These are questions based on the Scriptures and sermon to help you put the teaching into practice. They can be used in discipleship, Lifegroup, as a family, or with whoever is around your table this week.

1. Can you share a time when you struggled with bitterness? How did it affect your life and relationships?
2. Pastor Jason asked “Are you willing to do whatever it takes to get free?” What might “whatever it takes” look like in your journey towards forgiveness?
3. How does the story of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35) challenge your perspective on extending forgiveness to others?
4. In what ways have you experienced God’s grace and forgiveness in your own life? How can this motivate you to forgive others?
5. Pastor Jason shared about praying for those who had hurt him. How might praying for someone you’re struggling to forgive change your heart towards them?
6. What are some practical steps you can take to “keep your side of the street clean” in relationships where forgiveness is needed?
7. How does holding onto bitterness affect your spiritual life and your relationship with God?
8. Pastor Jason mentioned that “mercy triumphs over judgment.” How can we cultivate a heart that loves mercy in our daily lives?
9. What fears or hesitations do you have about fully forgiving someone who has deeply hurt you? How can we support each other in overcoming these barriers?
10. How might your life and relationships change if you fully embraced the freedom from bitterness that Jesus offers? What’s one step you can take this week towards that freedom?