Keraia
Matthew 18

Matthew 18:24

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

Translations

Modern
As he began the settlements, a debtor owing ten thousand talents was brought to him.
Traditional
And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.
Literal
And on his having begun to settle, one was brought to him, a debtor of ten thousand talents.
Latin
Et cum cœpisset rationem ponere, oblatus est ei unus, qui debebat ei decem millia talenta.

Original

Greek
English
As he began the settlements, a debtor owing ten thousand talents was brought to him.

Notes

Matthew 18:24

Ten thousand talents: The talent was the largest unit of currency, but its value changed over time. This debt was impossible to repay. This amount was more than all of Galilee's tax revenue.

Matthew 18:21–35

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).

Matthew 18:15–35

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).

Matthew 18:1–35

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 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 Talent: Value of Parables of The