Book of Matthew - Chapter 18 - Verse 21

In this verse, Peter is seeking guidance from Jesus on the topic of forgiveness. By asking if he should forgive his brother up to seven times, Peter is attempting to establish a limit on forgiveness. However, Jesus responds by saying that forgiveness should not be limited to a specific number of times, but rather should be offered limitlessly. Jesus goes on to explain that we should forgive not just seven times, but seventy times seven times. This statement emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in Christianity and highlights the endless mercy and grace that God offers to His people.

This verse serves as a reminder to Christians that forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of their faith and a crucial part of following Jesus' teachings. By forgiving others, we emulate the forgiveness that God extends to us, despite our own shortcomings. It encourages believers to let go of grudges, resentments, and anger, and to show compassion and understanding towards those who have wronged us. Ultimately, this verse reminds Christians of the power of forgiveness in fostering reconciliation, healing relationships, and promoting peace.

In this passage, Peter approaches Jesus with a question about forgiveness, asking how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. The number seven held significance in Jewish tradition as a symbol of completion or perfection. By suggesting forgiving seven times, Peter may have thought he was being generous. However, Jesus's response challenges this notion by instructing Peter to forgive not just seven times, but seventy times seven, emphasizing the importance of limitless forgiveness. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of forgiveness as a central tenet of Christian faith. It mirrors the infinite forgiveness that God extends to humanity and serves as a reminder of the need for believers to show the same level of compassion and mercy to others. Through word studies, the depth of forgiveness and grace is explored, shedding light on the transformative power of forgiveness in relationships and the spiritual growth that comes from embodying Christ-like forgiveness.