The David Spoon Experience 8-6-24 part 1

A) We delve back into Matthew, starting with chapter 18, verse 21. This is where Peter asks, “How many times should I forgive the one who sins against me?” At this point, the disciples are beginning to understand that they need to operate on the principle of forgiveness continually. They want to explore the parameters - how far does it extend? How deep does it go? How often should it occur? 

B) In his question, Peter proposes a number. He asks Jesus if forgiving someone seven times is sufficient. What we must understand about the text is that Peter is seeking a limit. Jesus’ response to Peter acknowledges two general translations: 70 times 7 and 77 times. Those who believe that the actual number is either 490 or 77 are operating under the same misconception as Peter. They are missing the point. 

C) Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a king who decides to settle his accounts with his servants who have borrowed money from him. The borrowed money must be accounted for. Interestingly, the text mentions that the king decided it was time for their accounts to be up-to-date. This is the unavoidable fact that God will call every human being to account for their lives. 

D) One of the individuals involved had an enormous debt that he couldn’t repay. The king ordered that his wife, children, and all he owned be sold to pay the debt. Essentially, accounting for this person’s indebtedness would strip him of everything. Despite his inability to pay, the man fell before the king, begging for mercy and patience and promising to repay everything. Recognizing that the man could not actually repay the debt, the king released him from it altogether. This is the first part of the story, and it can be likened to Peter and the king of the universe or to you and I and the king of the universe. Either way, the debt cannot be repaid by our own efforts.