Matthew 18:23

The Unforgiving Servant · Matthew 18:21–35
Read Matthew 18

Translations

Modern
Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.
Traditional
Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.
Literal
Because of this, the kingdom of the heavens was likened to to a man, a king, who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.
Latin
Ideo assimilatum est regnum cælorum homini regi, qui voluit rationem ponere cum servis suis.

Original

Greek
English
Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.

Notes

Peter thought forgiving seven times was generous, but Jesus surprised him. A disciple should graciously forgive like God does, without limits and freely (see Matthew 18:10–14). If someone does not forgive in this way, it shows they have not experienced God's forgiveness for themselves (18:35; see 6:12).

The community of believers should stay united and avoid conflicts. Members should seek reconciliation (Matthew 18:15–20) and be ready to forgive (18:21–35). Sometimes, strict discipline might be necessary (18:17).

This fourth major teaching in Matthew (see study note on Matthew 5:1–7:29) focuses on how people responded to the Messiah. The disciples accepted him, while the Jewish leaders and most people did not. As this division increased, Jesus taught his disciples about community life.

To follow the standards of Jesus, a community should live with:

Like the other teachings, a closing statement (19:1–2) connects to the next section.

Events

Parallels

Romans 12:14–21

Glossary

Debt Forgiveness Gospel Gospel of Matthew Grace Parable Riches

Topics

Charitableness: General Scriptures Concerning Creditor: Merciful Creditors: God's Claim Upon Men Debtor: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Forgiveness of Enemies Forgiveness of Injuries: Illustrated Jesus, the Christ: Parable of The Unmerciful Servant Jesus, the Christ: Reproves the Ambition of his Disciples (At Capernaum) Kingdom of Heaven: Compared: To a King Who Called his Servants for a Reckoning (An Audit) Mercy: Denunciations Against Those Devoid of Parables: Parables of Christ: Unmerciful Servant Sin: Forgiveness of