Matthew 18:21-35
Summary for Matt 18:21-35: 18:21-35 a Peter’s suggestion of seven times was generous, so Jesus’ answer was startling. The disciple’s willingness to forgive should be like God’s forgiving grace, limitless and free (see 18:10-14 b). Those who do not forgive in this way cannot themselves have experienced God’s forgiveness (18:35 c; see 6:12 d).18:22 e seventy times seven: Or seventy-seven times; either way, Jesus prescribes limitless readiness to forgive from the heart (18:35 f; cp. Gen 4:23-24 g).
18:24 h millions of dollars (Greek 10,000 talents): The talent was the highest unit of currency, but its value fluctuated. The debt was clearly impossible to pay—this amount exceeded the tax revenue of all Galilee.
18:26 i I will pay it all: The exaggerated debt and the slave’s promise amplify the greatness of the king’s mercy and the slave’s unforgiving attitude (18:29-30 j).
18:28 k a few thousand dollars: The first servant’s debt was about one million times greater than this sum owed to him.
18:34 l This is how God responds (18:35 m) to anyone unwilling to forgive.
• until he had paid his entire debt: I.e., permanently, because he could never repay.
18:35 n That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you: Prison and torture (18:34 o) is thus a metaphor for hell (see 5:22 p).
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