New Testament
Matthew 18:32
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, the king confronts a servant who has just been forgiven a massive debt.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
The king summoned the servant and said, 'You wicked servant! I forgave your entire debt because you begged me to.
Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the king confronts a servant who has just been forgiven a massive debt. The king calls him 'wicked' because, despite receiving such mercy, the servant fails to show the same kindness to someone who owes him a much smaller amount. This highlights the expectation that those who have received forgiveness should extend it to others. The king's anger reflects the seriousness of the servant's lack of compassion. It serves as a reminder that forgiveness is not just a one-time act but a continual practice that should flow from our own experiences of grace. The king's words emphasize the moral obligation to forgive others, especially when we have been forgiven ourselves. This moment illustrates the disconnect between receiving mercy and giving it, urging us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes towards forgiveness in our relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 18:32 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own willingness to forgive others. If we have experienced forgiveness in our lives, we are called to extend that same grace to those who wrong us. Practicing forgiveness can lead to healing and restoration in our relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 18:32 mean?
Matthew 18:32 shows a king confronting a servant who, after being forgiven a large debt, fails to forgive a smaller debt owed to him. This highlights the expectation that those who receive forgiveness should also extend it to others.
What is the meaning of 'wicked servant' in Matthew 18:32?
The term 'wicked servant' refers to someone who, despite receiving mercy, chooses not to show the same kindness to others. It emphasizes the moral failure of not reciprocating forgiveness.
How does Matthew 18:32 relate to forgiveness?
Matthew 18:32 emphasizes that forgiveness is a two-way street; having received grace, we are expected to offer it to others. It highlights the consequences of failing to do so.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 18:32?
The lesson from Matthew 18:32 is that we must practice forgiveness in our lives. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and ensure we are not hypocritical in our dealings with 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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