Matthew 18:26

I will pay back everything: the slave's promise to pay the huge debt emphasizes the king's great mercy and the slave's lack of forgiveness (Matthew 18:29–30).

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:

• humility (18:1–5),

• sensitivity (18:6–9),

• compassion (18:10–14),

• discipline (18:15–18), and

• forgiveness (18:21–35).

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