Matthew 18:21-35 – Forgiveness
Our Lord Jesus lays it down as a general rule that we ought to forgive others to the uttermost. He does not mean that people should be allowed to steal and assault us without punishment, but that we should have a general attitude of mercy towards others. We are to bear much and to put up with much, rather than quarrel; we are to overlook much and submit to much, rather than fight; we are to lay aside everything like hatred, strife, and revenge. These attitudes are unworthy of a disciple of Christ. How much unhappiness might be avoided if men were more willing to forgive. We should resolve to return good for evil, blessing for cursing, and so to change our enemies into our friends.
Our Lord gives us two powerful motives for exercising a forgiving spirit. First, we all need forgiveness at God’s hand ourselves. Day after day we fall short in many things; day after day we require mercy and pardon. Our neighbour’s offenses against us are mere trifles, compared with our offenses against God. Another motive for forgiving others ought to be the remembrance of the day of judgement and the standard by which we shall all be tried in that day. There will be no forgiveness in that day for unforgiving people.
Do we want to give proof that we are at peace with God, washed in Christ’s blood, born of the Spirit, and made God’s children by adoption and grace? Let us remember this passage: like our Father in heaven, let us be forgiving. Do you want to have an influence on others and make them see the beauty of true faith? Remember this passage and be forgiving. Do you want to grow in grace and become more holy? Remember this passage and be forgiving.
Questions
- Why should we forgive others?
- How often should we forgive others?
Prayer Points
- Pray that you would have a forgiving attitude.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.