The Unforgiving Servant
In response to Peter's question about forgiveness, Jesus presented this parable to his disciples. A ruler forgives his servant's vast debt of ten thousand talents, but the servant then refuses to pardon a fellow servant's small obligation and casts him into prison.
In response to Peter's question about forgiveness, Jesus presented this parable to his disciples. A ruler forgives his servant's vast debt of ten thousand talents, but the servant then refuses to pardon a fellow servant's small obligation and casts him into prison. When the ruler hears of this, he revokes his mercy and punishes the unforgiving servant, teaching that those forgiven much by God must forgive others or incur judgment. This account emphasizes the transformative power of grace within the kingdom, requiring believers to reflect divine mercy in their dealings.
Category: Grace & Forgiveness
Meaning: Those who have been forgiven much must forgive others. Unforgiveness brings judgment.
Audience: Peter & Disciples
Key Chapters
Key Passages
The Parable
Matthew 18:23-35
This parable shows how deeply God forgives us and gently calls us to offer that same mercy to others.
23herefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.
Did You Know?
The king forgave an impossible debt of 10,000 talents (roughly 200,000 years of wages).
The servant then refused to forgive a tiny debt of 100 denarii (about 3 months wages).
Jesus teaches that receiving massive forgiveness should produce a heart that extends forgiveness to others.