Matthew 18:31 (KJV)

What does Matthew 18:31 mean?

Matthew 18:31 describes how the other servants, after witnessing what had happened, felt deep sorrow and went to report everything to their master. The verse shows the reaction of bystanders to an act of injustice, emphasizing their distress and their decision to involve the person in authority.

In this scene, Jesus is telling a parable to His disciples about forgiveness. The "fellowservants" are other servants who saw one of their own treat another harshly, even after receiving mercy himself. Their reaction—being "very sorry" and telling their lord—highlights the seriousness of the wrongdoing and sets up the next part of the story, where the master responds to the report.

The Greek behind Matthew 18:31

• "σύνδουλοι" (syndouloi, G4889) means "fellowservants" or "co-slaves." This word emphasizes that all the people involved are on the same level, under the same master, which makes the injustice among equals more striking.
• "ἐλυπήθησαν" (elypēthēsan, G3076) is translated as "were very sorry." The Greek word carries a sense of deep grief or distress, not just mild concern, showing how strongly the servants felt about the unfairness they witnessed.
• "διηγήσαντο" (diēgēsanto, G1285) means "told" or "reported in detail." This word suggests that the servants gave a full account, not just a brief mention, indicating the seriousness with which they viewed the situation.

Why Matthew 18:31 matters

• Matthew 18:31 clears up that the injustice was not hidden or ignored—others noticed and cared enough to act, which underscores the public nature of the wrongdoing.
• The verse highlights the emotional response of the bystanders, showing that mercy and justice are community concerns, not just private matters.
• This reaction from the fellowservants connects to the larger theme of the parable: the expectation that those who receive mercy should also show mercy to others.