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.”

Context:Matthew 18:31 is part of a parable known as the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. Jesus told this parable to illustrate the importance of forgiveness and mercy in the Kingdom of Heaven.

The Parable:In the parable, Jesus tells the story of a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. One servant owed him a huge debt that he could not repay. The king decided to sell the servant, his wife, children, and all that he had to repay the debt. The servant fell down and begged for patience, promising to repay everything. The king had compassion on the servant, forgave the debt, and released him.

The Reaction of the Fellowservants:After being forgiven, the servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He grabbed the fellow servant and demanded repayment. However, when the fellow servant begged for patience, he refused and had him thrown into prison. This caught the attention of the other servants, who saw what happened and were deeply sorry for the injustice and lack of mercy displayed by the forgiven servant.

Lessons from the Verse:

• 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 behaviour, especially as followers of Christ, should be characterised 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 recognised 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.

Application:

• Reflect on Forgiveness:Consider the magnitude of God’s forgiveness in your own life. How does it impact your perspective on extending forgiveness to others?
• Examine Attitudes and Actions: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.
• Practice Accountability:Foster a culture of accountability within your Christian community. Encourage open dialogue and communication to address any issues of injustice or lack of mercy.

Remember, 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.