Matthew 18:35
So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
James 2:13For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.Mark 11:25And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.Matthew 6:12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.Proverbs 21:2Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.Proverbs 21:13Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.Luke 16:15And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.Revelation 2:23And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.James 3:14But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.Zechariah 7:12Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the LORD of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the LORD of hosts.Jeremiah 3:10And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah hath not turned unto me with her whole heart, but feignedly, saith the LORD.
Historical Context
The parable responds to Peter's question about forgiveness limits (18:21-22). Jesus' answer—forgive '70 times 7'—means unlimited forgiveness. The unmerciful servant's punishment (18:34) illustrates the Father's treatment of unforgiving believers. This echoes the Lord's Prayer: 'Forgive us...as we forgive' (6:12), making forgiveness both received and extended.
Questions for Reflection
- Who do you need to forgive from your heart, not just externally?
- How does experiencing God's forgiveness enable forgiving others?
- What bitterness are you holding that demonstrates spiritual danger?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus concludes the parable by stating God will not forgive those who don't forgive from the heart. This doesn't earn salvation by works but demonstrates that genuine saving faith produces forgiveness. Reformed theology distinguishes justification (by faith alone) from sanctification (faith producing works). Unforgiveness reveals an unregenerate heart that hasn't truly experienced God's mercy. 'From your hearts' emphasizes sincerity—external forgiveness without internal release of bitterness fails God's standard.