Question 1

What does Matthew 18:21 mean?

Accepted Answer

Matthew 18:21 shows Peter coming to Jesus and asking how many times he should forgive a fellow believer who sins against him, suggesting “up to seven times” as a possible limit. This question sets the stage for Jesus to teach about the nature and extent of forgiveness among his followers. Peter is speaking directly to Jesus, likely in front of the other disciples, and he wants to know if there is a reasonable limit to forgiving someone who repeatedly does wrong. The verse highlights Peter’s attempt to quantify forgiveness, reflecting a common human desire for clear boundaries, and prepares for Jesus’ response that will challenge this mindset.

Question 2

The Greek behind Matthew 18:21

Accepted Answer

ἁμαρτήσει (hamartēsei, “sin”): This word means to do wrong or miss the mark. Here, it refers to a fellow believer’s repeated offenses, showing that Peter is asking about ongoing, not just one-time, wrongs. ἀφήσω (aphēsō, “forgive”): This Greek word means to release or let go of a debt or wrongdoing. Peter’s use of it shows he is thinking about truly letting go of offenses, not just tolerating them. ἑπτάκις (heptakis, “seven times”): The number seven often symbolizes completeness in Jewish thought. Peter’s suggestion may sound generous, but the context shows he is still thinking in terms of limits.

Question 3

Why Matthew 18:21 matters

Accepted Answer

Matthew 18:21 clears up the idea that forgiveness should have a set limit, which was a common assumption in Peter’s time. The verse sets up Jesus’ teaching that forgiveness among believers should go far beyond what people might naturally expect or feel comfortable with. This question from Peter connects directly to the wider passage about handling conflict and forgiveness in the church, making it a key turning point in Jesus’ teaching on relationships.

Matthew 18:21 (KJV)