Day 7 - The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

Reading Passage: Matthew 18:23-35.

Have you ever thought, how many times must I forgive this person?! 

If so, Peter could relate (Matthew 18:21). Jesus responded to a question from Peter by telling him the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, which helps us realize just how much God has forgiven us and encourages us to generously forgive others. 

Not only that, but this parable broadens our understanding of the character and nature of God. A parable is an earthly story, told by Jesus, with heavenly implications. 

As you read the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew 18:23-35, think about the heavenly implications behind the earthly story.

What do you learn about forgiveness? Is there a person you need to generously forgive right now?

Reminder: To understand the heart of Jesus’ parable here, read before and after the parable to identify the original audience Jesus was talking to and cultural reference points and characters they would have understood. Also observe the ending, which often had an unexpected twist that Jesus desired the audience to notice most.