Matthew 18:23-35

“…a parable is an expanded analogy used to convince and persuade.” —K. Snodgrass

Incalculable Debt (v 23-27)
This parable focuses on the

for those who are in

There was

the servant could ever

he owed the king.
A talent was about 20 years’ wages, and he owed 10,000 talents!

The king’s

the servant’s debt completely.

Jesus

through His death on the cross.
Like the servant in this parable, I have been forgiven an incalculable debt!

I have been forgiven a debt

The Servant’s Response (v 28-30)
The servant has no intention of extending grace or mercy to

.
The king’s mercy didn’t change him at all.

Considering Forgiveness
Forgiveness is

the demand for justice

.
Forgiveness

on the other person’s request.
Waiting for them just keeps you stuck.

Resource: Forgiving and Reconciling: Bridges to Wholeness and Hope, by Everett L. Worthington.

Unforgiveness only

.
The debt of sin against you will be paid in one of two ways: either by eternity in Hell or by the death of Christ on the cross.—Ballard

Forgiveness

Outraged (v 31-34)
The servants were shocked by the gap between the treatment

and the treatment

From the Heart (v 35)
God’s forgiveness freed you and your heart-felt forgiveness of others enables you to continue to enjoy your freedom.

people

others.
It’s a decision.

Those who belong to the Kingdom of Heaven are willing to forgive like God forgives: