Matthew 18:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 18:21
21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
Chapter Context
Matthew 18 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, righteousness, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 18:21
21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
Analysis
Peter's question 'Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?' appears generous—rabbinical tradition required forgiving three times. Peter's seven seems magnanimous. But Jesus' response 'I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven' (or 'seventy-seven times,' v. 22) demands unlimited forgiveness. The point isn't literal counting (490 times) but forgiving without limit, as God forgives us. This introduces the parable of the unforgiving servant.
Historical Context
Jewish teaching required forgiving three offenses; Peter's seven doubled this plus one, seemingly generous. Jesus' 'seventy times seven' deliberately echoes Genesis 4:24 where Lamech vowed unlimited vengeance—Jesus transforms unlimited vengeance into unlimited forgiveness. Kingdom citizens forgive as God forgives—without limit or scorekeeping.
Reflection
- Whose repeated offenses are you struggling to forgive unlimited times?
- How does God's unlimited forgiveness of you motivate forgiving others?
Word Studies
- Forgive: ἀφίημι (Aphiemi) G863 - To send away, forgive, release
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 18:15