Matthew 18:31

So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.

Matthew 18:31 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 18:31 is the turning point in the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, which Jesus told in response to Peter’s question about how often he must forgive his brother. The parable illustrates that forgiveness in the Kingdom of Heaven must be unlimited and mirror the mercy God has shown us. In the story, a king forgives a servant an enormous, unpayable debt of ten thousand talents. That same servant then refuses to forgive a fellow servant a much smaller debt of a hundred pence and has him thrown into prison.

Meaning

Verse 31 records the reaction of the other servants, called in Greek syndouloi, meaning fellow slaves or fellow servants. They see what has happened, are “very sorry” (Greek elypēthēsan sphodra, meaning exceedingly grieved or greatly distressed), and report “all that was done” to their lord. Their grief is not passive; it moves them to action. They go directly to the lord, the one with authority to judge, and tell him everything without reserve. The Greek word used for “told” (diesaphēsan) in some manuscripts means to make clear or to report fully, emphasizing the complete and detailed nature of their account. This act of reporting is not malicious gossip but a righteous appeal for justice, exposing the servant’s lack of mercy.

Biblical connections

The narrative then moves to the lord’s response in verse 32, where he calls the servant “wicked” and delivers him to tormentors because he did not show mercy as he had received mercy. The verse highlights that the community of fellow servants is aware of how its members treat one another, and that unmerciful behavior is a serious offense that is seen and will be addressed by the master.

Application

• Awareness of Actions: The fellowservants observed the actions of the forgiven servant. This verse emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our actions and how they impact others. Our behavior, especially as followers of Christ, should be characterized by grace, forgiveness, and mercy.

• Compassion and Forgiveness: The fellowservants’ response highlights the natural expectation of compassion and forgiveness within the community of believers. They were sorrowful because they recognized the lack of mercy shown by the forgiven servant. It reminds us that as recipients of God’s forgiveness, we are called to extend the same forgiveness and grace to others.

• Accountability and Reporting: The fellowservants felt compelled to report what had happened to their lord. This teaches us the importance of accountability and seeking justice when witnessing wrongdoing. It is crucial to bring such matters to the attention of appropriate authorities and leaders within the Church.

Reflect on the magnitude of God’s forgiveness in your own life. How does it impact your perspective on extending forgiveness to others? Evaluate your attitudes and actions towards others. Are you displaying mercy, grace, and forgiveness in your relationships? Take time to seek forgiveness from those you may have wronged. Foster a culture of accountability within your Christian community, encouraging open dialogue and communication to address any issues of injustice or lack of mercy. Matthew 18:31 serves as a reminder that forgiveness and mercy should be central to our Christian walk. As we have been forgiven, let us also forgive others and show compassion to those around us.