Forgiveness and Mercy

Jesus and the Just Reign of God
God Sends Jesus
How to Live as God's People

Matthew 18:21-35

The Message

A Story About Forgiveness

²¹ At that point Peter got up the nerve to ask, “Master, how many times do I forgive a brother or sister who hurts me? Seven?”

²² Jesus replied, “Seven! Hardly. Try seventy times seven.
^23-25 “The kingdom of God is like a king who decided to square accounts with his servants. As he got under way, one servant was brought before him who had run up a debt of a hundred thousand dollars. He couldn’t pay up, so the king ordered the man, along with his wife, children, and goods, to be auctioned off at the slave market.
^26-27 “The poor wretch threw himself at the king’s feet and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ Touched by his plea, the king let him off, erasing the debt.
²⁸ “The servant was no sooner out of the room when he came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him ten dollars. He seized him by the throat and demanded, ‘Pay up. Now!’
^29-31 “The poor wretch threw himself down and begged, ‘Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.’ But he wouldn’t do it. He had him arrested and put in jail until the debt was paid. When the other servants saw this going on, they were outraged and brought a detailed report to the king.
^32-35 “The king summoned the man and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave your entire debt when you begged me for mercy. Shouldn’t you be compelled to be merciful to your fellow servant who asked for mercy?’ The king was furious and put the screws to the man until he paid back his entire debt. And that’s exactly what my Father in heaven is going to do to each one of you who doesn’t forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy.”

For Reflection

Signified by the phrase, "turn the other cheek," forgiveness and mercy have been institutionalize in Christianity.  Forgiveness and mercy are perhaps the first thing one thinks about when asked to characterize Christianity.  Yes, forgiveness is a good thing as is, I suppose, being merciful.  But, is that all Christianity is about?  Who asks for forgiveness and mercy?  Mostly, those who petition persons of higher power.  Does being a Christian elevate ones status to such an extent that one can choose to grant favors?

Look deeper into that which is the intent of Christ's answer.  Isn't  the motive for granting mercy and forgiveness compassion?  Perhaps the King granted the servant's wish, but the servant did not learn compassion.  God's forgiveness and mercy is motivated by God's overriding compassion for us.  It is the compassion we seek to emulate. 

Pray

That you will seed to be a person motivated by compassion.  Pray that compassion will drive righteous action.  Pray that the compassion reflected in Jesus Christ will humble you.