Too Forgiven To Be Unforgiving [Matthew 18:21-35]

In The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, Jesus answered how many times we should forgive another person who has wronged us. If you realize how much you have been forgiven for in your life, it should not be a stretch to forgive others as well.

KEY IDEA

Forgiveness is the definitive demonstration of Christ’s love in us.

WHAT PROMPTED THIS?

Jesus is talking with His disciples about relationships, first with children and then with “brothers.” (vv. 1-14)

Jesus shares a way to deal with those who sin against you. The objective is restoration of fellowship, not judgment or punishment. (vv. 15-20)

Peter suggests a plan for extending forgiveness to others who have wronged us; Jesus suggests a moreextensive plan. (vv. 21-22)

THE STORY JESUS TELLS

The story deals with creditors and debtors, and the calling to account of those debts. (v. 23)

Jesus highlights a man who owes the King a debt he could never repay. (vv. 24-25)

The servant’s penitent heart moved the King to compassion. Out of His compassionate nature, the King released and forgave him the entire debt (vv.26-27).

Surprisingly, the King’s compassionate heart did not invade the heart of the servant. Instead, he found a fellow servant, and treated him with judgment (v. 28-30).

Other servants were impacted by what this first servant had done. The first servant was chastised and forgiveness revoked. Now, he received what he justly deserved (vv. 31-35).

THE LESSONS FOR US

We all deserve judgment and no mercy at all! (v 35) BUT GOD!

God offers forgiveness to the penitent, for His nature is mercy and compassion. (vv. 27, 33)

He requires us, His children (and brothers/sisters to each other), to do the same (v. 33).

God promises to forgive us “as we” forgive our brothers and sisters from the heart (v. 35).