The Two Debtors
In this parable told to Simon the Pharisee, Jesus describes a creditor who cancels the debts of two men, one owing five hundred pence and the other fifty, and then inquires which debtor would love him more for such mercy. The lesson reveals that those forgiven much will love much, while Simon's meager display of affection betrayed his failure to perceive his own deep need for forgiveness. This exchange underscores the heart of grace in the gospel story, where humble recognition of sin opens the way to lavish love for the one who pardons.
Category: Grace & Forgiveness
Meaning: Those forgiven much love much. Simon showed little love because he felt little need for forgiveness.
Audience: Simon the Pharisee
Key Passages
The Parable
Luke 7:41-43
41here was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
Did You Know?
One man owed 500 denarii, the other owed 50. Both were forgiven when they could not pay.
Jesus asked which one would love the moneylender more. Simon correctly answered the one forgiven more.
The one who is forgiven little loves little. The one forgiven much loves much.