The Doom of Unforgiveness

1.Read Matthew 18:21–22. Peter asked how many times he should forgive, and Jesus replied 70×7. What does Jesus’ answer tell us about the nature of forgiveness? 2.Read Matthew 18:23–27. The king forgives a massive debt. How does the king’s mercy demonstrate grace that we don’t deserve? 3.Read Matthew 18:28–34. The forgiven servant refuses to forgive a small debt. How does this show the destructive power of withholding forgiveness—even after receiving it? 4.Read Matthew 18:35. What lesson does Jesus drive home about the necessity of forgiving others once we ourselves have been forgiven? 5.Looking at the sermon outline: •True forgiveness has no limit (vv. 21–22) •Our sins against God are infinite (vv. 23–27) •Our sins against others are finite (vv. 28–34) •True forgiveness inspires true forgiveness (v. 35) How does comparing infinite forgiveness from God to our finite offenses deepen your understanding of grace? Theological Reflection Unforgiveness is like planting a weed—it spreads resentment and chokes out life. But when we forgive, we mirror God’s boundless mercy. Reflect on the balance between justice and grace in this story. How does this affect your view of God’s character? Application Questions Identify someone you may still need to forgive. Pray for God’s help to release that bitterness and show mercy. Practice the Golden Rule in forgiveness: treat others with the grace you’ve received, not what they might deserve. Remind yourself daily: you have been forgiven much. Let that compel you to forgive freely and generously. Closing Forgiving others doesn’t erase what they did, but it reflects what Christ has done for us. This week, how can your life witness to the freedom found in forgiveness?