So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
MATTHEW 18:35KJVWhat does Matthew 18:35 mean?
Matthew 18:35 says that God will treat people in the same way as the unforgiving servant in the parable if they do not truly forgive others from their hearts. Jesus is warning that forgiveness must be genuine and come from within, not just in words or outward actions.
Jesus is speaking to His disciples after telling a parable about a servant who was forgiven a great debt but refused to forgive a small debt owed to him. The setting is a lesson on forgiveness, showing that God expects those who have received mercy to show the same mercy to others. The verse stresses that forgiveness is not optional or superficial; it must be sincere and heartfelt.
The Greek behind Matthew 18:35
- καρδίας (kardias, "hearts"): This word refers to the inner self, not just emotions but the center of a person's will and intentions. Jesus is emphasizing that forgiveness must come from deep within, not just as an outward gesture.
- ἀφῆτε (aphēte, "forgive"): The Greek word here means to let go, release, or send away. It highlights the idea of completely releasing someone from what they owe, not holding onto resentment or a grudge.
- παραπτώματα (paraptōmata, "trespasses"): This word means offenses, wrongdoings, or failures. It covers all kinds of ways someone might wrong another, showing that no offense is too small or too great to be excluded from forgiveness.
Why Matthew 18:35 matters
- Matthew 18:35 clarifies that forgiveness is not just a formal requirement but must be heartfelt and sincere, addressing the inner attitude, not just outward actions.
- The verse connects directly to the parable Jesus just told, making it clear that God’s forgiveness of us is tied to our willingness to forgive others.
- This verse warns against hypocrisy—receiving mercy from God but refusing to extend it to others—showing that true discipleship involves imitating God’s mercy.