New Testament
Matthew 18:29
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a fellow servant pleads for mercy from a man who has just been forgiven a large debt.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged, 'Please, be patient with me! I'll pay you back!'
And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a fellow servant pleads for mercy from a man who has just been forgiven a large debt. He falls to his knees, showing desperation and humility, and asks for patience, promising to repay the debt. This moment highlights the human tendency to seek forgiveness while often failing to extend the same grace to others. The plea for patience reflects a deep understanding of one's own shortcomings and the hope for compassion in return. The context of this verse is crucial, as it follows a parable about forgiveness, illustrating the importance of mercy in relationships. The fellow servant's situation mirrors our own need for forgiveness from God, emphasizing that we should also forgive those who wrong us. This interaction serves as a reminder of the grace we receive and the obligation to share that grace with others, reinforcing the message that forgiveness is a two-way street.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 18:29 to your life
When someone wrongs us, we should remember our own need for forgiveness. Instead of holding grudges, we can choose to extend grace and patience, just as we hope to receive it. This practice fosters healthier relationships and reflects our understanding of God's mercy.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 18:29 mean?
Matthew 18:29 depicts a fellow servant pleading for mercy after being unable to repay a debt. This moment emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and compassion, as it follows a parable about extending grace to others.
What is the significance of patience in Matthew 18:29?
In Matthew 18:29, the plea for patience highlights the human desire for understanding and mercy. It serves as a reminder that just as we seek patience from others, we should also be willing to offer it.
What does the term 'fellow servant' imply in Matthew 18:29?
The term 'fellow servant' in Matthew 18:29 indicates a shared status among servants, suggesting that we are all in similar positions regarding our debts and need for forgiveness. It underscores the idea of mutual responsibility in relationships.
How does Matthew 18:29 relate to forgiveness?
Matthew 18:29 illustrates the theme of forgiveness by showing a servant who has been forgiven a large debt yet struggles to forgive a smaller one. This interaction emphasizes the necessity of extending the same grace we receive from others.
The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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