Sharper Iron From Kfuo Radio

Rev. Brady Finnern, pastor at Messiah Lutheran Church in Sartell, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Matthew 18:21-35. Peter probably thought he was being generous in suggesting forgiveness for his brother seven times. Jesus’ answer is far greater, teaching Peter and all His disciples of the boundless forgiveness of God. The parable Jesus tells highlights the forgiveness of the king. The first servant has racked up a debt that is unimaginable. When the king calls him to account, he begs for patience and promises to pay back everything. This is laughable, but the king in his compassion forgives the entire debt. Amazingly, this same servant goes out and demands repayment from a fellow servant of a debt that is minuscule compared to his own. When patience is begged, the first servant refuses to forgive. His lack of forgiveness shows that he thinks he can pay back the king for his debt, and so the king gives him what he desires by throwing him into jail. The entire parable is a picture of God’s forgivene