Day: 12
Text: Matt. 18:23-31.
Introduction-
In Matt. 18:23-31., Jesus presents the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant who is forgiven a massive debt but refuses to forgive someone who owes him far less. Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but Jesus makes it clear that it’s essential. This parable speaks on the principle that as recipients of God’s forgiveness, we are called to forgive others generously and without limit. This parable challenges us to reflect on our own hearts—are we quick to ask for forgiveness but slow to offer it? Are we holding onto grudges while expecting grace for ourselves? Through this passage, Jesus teaches that forgiveness isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a requirement for those who have received God’s mercy.
Life Lessons–
- God’s Mercy is Limitless and so is our Debt: God forgives our sins, far beyond what we deserve. The servant’s huge debt represents our sin. No matter how much we mess up, God’s grace covers it. (Matthew 18:27, Ephesians 2:8-9)
- Forgiven People Must Be Forgiving People: The servant who was shown mercy refused to extend the same to someone else. Jesus makes it clear: if we expect to receive God’s forgiveness, we need to extend it to others. (Matthew 18:33, Luke 6:37)
- The Consequence of Forgiveness: The unmerciful servant was punished because he failed to show the same mercy he received. Holding onto bitterness and refusing to forgive has consequences—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. (Matthew 18:34-35; Ephesians 4:32).
Life applications
- Forgive and Practice Forgiveness: Just as we receive God’s mercy, we must extend it to others. Forgiveness is not a one-time act but a continuous practice. (Matthew 18:21-22, Romans 3:23)
- Choose Healing: Unforgiveness weighs you down. It doesn’t mean excusing wrongdoing, but it does free you from carrying the burden of past hurts. (Colossians 3:13, Matthew 18:34-35)
- Extend Patience and Grace: Just as the master showed patience toward the servant, we should be patient with those who wrong us. (James 5:9)
- Pray for those who hurt you: It’s not always easy to forgive, but asking God for strength and perspective helps us move forward.
(Luke 6:27-28, Mark 11:25)
Lesson of the Day: The principle of forgiveness is that the grace or forgiveness to another is without limit. You are not to count the number of times we forgive. Rather, as the parable teaches, we are to forgive much because God has forgiven much. We are reminded that forgiveness should not be quantified or limited; instead, it should mirror the boundless mercy that God has bestowed upon us. The principle here is, “the one forgiven much should forgive much.” In other words, the principle of forgiveness is that grace or forgiveness to another is without limit. The disciples are not to count the number of times they forgive. Rather, as the parable teaches, they are to forgive much because God has forgiven much.
Complied by:
Oluwaseyi Oluwagbire
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