Today's lesson comes from Matthew 18:21-35. This is another parable regarding the kingdom of heaven. This time the subject is forgiveness. There are three main characters in the parable. The unforgiving servant was delivered unto the "tormentors." Notice the solemn warning in verse 35. The person who harbors an unforgiving spirit will be cast out of the kingdom of heaven.
In verses 21 and 22 there is a discussion between Peter and Jesus concerning forgiveness. The Jews believed that they never had to forgive more than there times. So when Peter suggests seven times, he would most likely feel confident that Jesus would approve of his answer. However, Jesus states seventy times seven. That number seems difficult to comprehend. Surely, no one would need forgiveness to that extent. Jesus could well be telling us that we should never be without a forgiving heart.
The first section is "The Compassionate King." vv. 23-27 In this lesson the kingdom of heaven is likened unto a certain king who would take account of his servants. Verses 24 and 25 tell of a servant who owed a large debt. It was an "immense sum." Verse 25 informs us that he could not pay the debt. As a result, his wife, children, etc. would be sold so the debt could be paid. In the same way, every sinner owes a debt that he cannot pay. The only remedy is forgiveness and a pardon from a merciful Savior.
In verse 26, "The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him." We see humility and brokenness. Psalm 51:17 reads: "A broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise." Also, Psalm 34:18 states: "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." The commentator Adam Clarke gives four truths relative to a sinner getting saved:
1. Deep humiliation of heart.
2. Fervent prayer.
3. Confidence in the mercy of God.
4. A firm purpose to devote his soul and body to his Maker.
The king is compassionate. He was "moved with compassion." The king "loosed him, and forgave him the debt." The immense debt was forgiven and the man set free. All guilt and condemnation were gone. He felt a sudden transition from darkness to light, from guilt and oppressing fear to confidence and peace. This is the same feeling the person has when he finds the grace of salvation. Guilt and condemnation are removed. We can still find mercy and forgiveness if we come to the Savior.
The second section is "The Unforgiving Servant." vv. 28-30 In these verses, we see that the person forgiven in verses 23-27 goes and finds someone that owes him a very small amount of money. When he finds him, he demands payment. The debtor begged for forgiveness, but the servant refused to be merciful and cast him into prison. This is an example of a carnal heart. Adam Clarke says that revenge is natural to man, i.e. man is naturally a vindictive being and thus difficult to forgive.
I have seen several occasions of people seeking something from God, but they had unforgiveness in their heart. That unforgiveness will keep you from getting saved, getting sanctified, getting healed, or receiving anything from God except judgment. Not only are the Scriptures clear on our duty to forgive, we see our Lord Jesus Christ as an example as He forgave people from the cross, "Father, forgive them." When being stoned, Stephen said in a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge." Romans 12:19 states: "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord."
I can testify to several occasions when someone came against me personally. They spoke evil of me and it cost me a lot of money and business opportunities. I did not fight back or seek to be vindictive. I forgave them. One man was an attorney and the other a powerful real estate broker. Through no effort of my own, the attorney lost his law license and is no longer an attorney. The real estate broker lost his license and served time in prison. My point is that I caused neither of these events. I did not ask God for vengeance. I simply forgave and went about my life. Were the events connected? I don't know, but the principle is clear, don't the an unforgiving servant.
The third section is "The Punishment Meted Out." vv. 31-34. In these verses, we see that the lord found out about the unforgiving acts of the servant. Be sure that your sin will find you out! In addition to being compassionate, the king was just. Since God is holy, He is always angry at sin. The king delivers the wicked servant to the tormentors to hold him until the debt is paid. Notice that they were tormentors not executioners. They would not kill the servant but keep him alive while bringing severe discipline to him. Also, notice since the man would be in jail he would not be allowed to work to earn money. This was in effect a life sentence without parole. He would be kept until he was willing to forgive others.
The fourth section is "The Warning to Be Heeded." v. 35 Notice the phrase, "my Heavenly Father." Each one of us must be prepared to give an account to God at the judgment. We need to live in a state of continual forgiveness towards others. If we don't forgive others, neither shall our Heavenly Father forgive us.
The Golden Text is, "Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt." This is how we are to forgive others. First, we are to be compassionate towards those who have injured us. Second, we are to help loose the bonds of the one who has hurt us. Finally, we forgive the entire debt, not just a portion.
My summary points:
1. Our LORD is compassionate and willing to forgive when we humbly come before Him in repentance.
2. We must not forget what God in His mercy has forgiven us.
3. A failure to forgive will result in being tormented.
4. We will face a day of judgment.
Next week, "The Marriage Supper." (Matthew 22:1-14)
Please read the Sunday School Beacon for inspiration and encouragement.
No comments:
Post a Comment