The Seriousness of ForgivenessSýnishorn

Why Forgive?

As Christians, we may sometimes wonder why the Lord expects us to forgive so freely, generously, consistently, and repetitively. Jesus illustrates the rationale behind this expectation and why it makes perfect gospel sense.

Jesus tells the story of a great king and a guilty servant. The servant is in a high position, responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the king. However, when the time comes for accounting, the servant is found to have been unfaithful, having spent the money meant for the king on himself and his family. As a result, the servant owes the king an enormous debt that is impossible for him to repay. The debt is so vast that it would take more than 11 years of taxes collected from four provinces to equal the amount owed.

This parable highlights a critical truth about our spiritual lives. Just as the servant owed an incalculable and unpayable debt to the king, we, too, owe a debt that we cannot repay. Our sins have separated us from God, and no good deeds or self-improvement can bridge that gap. We depend entirely on the Lord’s grace and mercy to forgive our sins and restore our relationship with Him.

As recipients of God's astounding grace, we must recognize that the forgiveness we have received is a gift we are called to extend to others. When we consider the magnitude of our own debt and the grace we have been granted, it becomes clear why the Lord expects us to forgive so readily. Forgiving others reflects the gospel grace that has transformed our lives.

Consider the forgiveness you have received from the Lord. Recognize the vastness of the debt you owe and the incredible grace that has been extended to you. With this understanding, challenge yourself to be more forgiving toward others, acknowledging that your ability to forgive is a testament to the gospel's power in your life.

This parable of the great king and the guilty servant teaches us why forgiveness is expected of us as Christians. As recipients of God's unmerited mercy, we are called to extend that same grace to others, forgiving them freely, generously, consistently, and repetitively. Let us embrace this responsibility and allow the power of the gospel to shine through our lives as we extend forgiveness to those around us.