Luke 17:4

KJV

And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} if {G1437} he trespass {G264} against {G1519} thee {G4571} seven times {G2034} in a day {G2250}, and {G2532} seven times {G2034} in a day {G2250} turn again {G1994} to {G1909} thee {G4571}, saying {G3004}, I repent {G3340}; thou shalt forgive {G863} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also, if seven times in one day he sins against you, and seven times he comes to you and says, ‘I repent,’ you are to forgive him.”

Berean Standard Bible

Even if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times returns to say, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”

American Standard Version

And if he sin against thee seven times in the day, and seven times turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 17:4 presents a radical and challenging teaching from Jesus Christ, instructing His disciples on the boundless nature of forgiveness within the community of faith. It mandates that if a brother or sister sins against an individual multiple times within a single day, yet repeatedly turns back with a declaration of repentance, forgiveness must be extended without limit. This command underscores a divine standard for interpersonal relationships, emphasizing a posture of grace and mercy that mirrors God's own character towards those who genuinely repent.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of a broader discourse by Jesus to His disciples concerning the responsibilities and challenges of living within the Kingdom of God. It immediately follows Jesus' stern warnings about causing others to stumble, stating that it would be better for one to be cast into the sea with a millstone than to lead a "little one" astray ([Luke 17:1-2](/luke/17-1-2 "Luke 17:1-2 - Woes to Tempters")). Directly preceding [Luke 17:4](/luke/17-4 "Luke 17:4 - The Command to Forgive"), Jesus instructs the disciples on the initial steps of reconciliation: "Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him" ([Luke 17:3](/luke/17-3 "Luke 17:3 - Rebuke and Forgive")). [Luke 17:4](/luke/17-4 "Luke 17:4 - The Command to Forgive") then expands upon the *frequency* of this forgiveness, pushing the boundaries of human inclination and setting an extraordinary standard for the community of believers. This teaching on forgiveness is foundational to the practical outworking of faith and love among God's people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Jewish society, the concept of forgiveness was understood within certain communal and legal frameworks. While repentance and forgiveness were central to the Law and prophetic tradition, the *extent* of forgiveness was often debated. Rabbinic traditions, for example, sometimes suggested a limit to forgiveness, perhaps three or four times for the same offense, after which further forgiveness was not required. Jesus' teaching in [Luke 17:4](/luke/17-4 "Luke 17:4 - The Command to Forgive") directly challenges these prevailing societal and religious norms by extending the requirement for forgiveness far beyond what was typically expected or even considered reasonable. The use of "seven times in a day" would have been startling to His listeners, as it implies a level of patience and grace that transcends human capacity and points to a divine model. This radical call to forgiveness was essential for the formation of a new covenant community, where relationships were to be governed by the principles of God's Kingdom rather than human limitations or legalistic interpretations.
* **Key Themes:** [Luke 17:4](/luke/17-4 "Luke 17:4 - The Command to Forgive") contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in Luke's Gospel and Jesus' broader teaching. Foremost is the theme of **Radical Forgiveness**, which is a hallmark of Jesus' ethics, often seen in His parables like the [Parable of the Prodigal Son](/luke/15-11-32 "Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son") where the father's forgiveness is immediate and unreserved. This verse also highlights the theme of **Repentance as a Prerequisite for Forgiveness**, underscoring that while forgiveness is boundless, it is not unconditional; it is offered in response to a genuine change of heart from the offender. Furthermore, it reinforces the theme of **Discipleship and Kingdom Ethics**, demonstrating that followers of Christ are called to embody a higher standard of righteousness and grace than the world, reflecting the character of God Himself. This standard challenges the disciples to move beyond mere human reciprocity and embrace a divine model of mercy, echoing the call to "be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" ([Luke 6:36](/luke/6-36 "Luke 6:36 - Be Merciful")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **trespass (Greek, _hamartánō'_):** From G264, meaning "to miss the mark," "to err," or "to sin." In this context, it refers to an offense or wrongdoing committed against another person. It implies falling short of a moral or relational standard, thus causing harm or injustice.
* **turn again (Greek, _epistréphō'_):** From G1994, meaning "to revert," "to convert," or "to turn about/again." This word signifies a physical or spiritual turning, a change of direction or orientation. Here, it indicates the offender's act of returning to the offended party, signifying a change in their disposition and an initiation of reconciliation.
* **repent (Greek, _metanoéō'_):** From G3340, meaning "to think differently or afterwards," "to reconsider (morally)," or "to feel compunction." This is a crucial term, indicating a genuine change of mind, heart, and will, leading to a turning away from sin and towards righteousness. It is more than just an apology; it implies a transformation of inner attitude and a commitment to change behavior.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day":** This clause sets the extreme hypothetical scenario. The phrase "seven times in a day" is a hyperbole, not a literal numerical limit. It signifies an extraordinary frequency of offense within a short period, pushing the boundaries of what would be considered humanly tolerable. It highlights the persistence of the offense and the challenge to the offended party's patience.
* **"and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent;":** This second clause introduces the critical condition for forgiveness. The repetition of "seven times in a day" here emphasizes that even with repeated offenses, if each instance is met with a genuine "turning again" and a verbal declaration of "I repent," the requirement for forgiveness remains. The "saying, I repent" signifies an outward expression of an inward change, confirming the sincerity of the turning.
* **"thou shalt forgive him.":** This is the direct command from Jesus. It is an imperative, indicating a non-negotiable obligation for the disciple. Despite the extreme frequency of offense, if the condition of repentance is met, forgiveness must be granted. This command elevates forgiveness from an optional act of grace to a mandatory duty for those who follow Christ, reflecting God's own character.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in [Luke 17:4](/luke/17-4 "Luke 17:4 - The Command to Forgive") is **Hyperbole**. The phrase "seven times in a day" is an exaggeration not meant to be taken literally, but to emphasize the boundless and unlimited nature of the forgiveness being commanded. It pushes the listener's imagination beyond typical human patience, illustrating that the required forgiveness far exceeds conventional expectations. This hyperbole serves to underscore the radical, divine standard Jesus is setting for His followers. Additionally, there is **Repetition** of "seven times in a day," which reinforces the extreme nature of the scenario and the unwavering demand for forgiveness in the face of persistent, yet repented, offenses. The structure also presents a clear **Conditional Statement** ("If... then..."), which clearly defines the circumstances under which the command to forgive applies, highlighting the crucial role of repentance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 17:4 is a profound theological statement on the nature of divine and human forgiveness. It teaches that forgiveness is not merely an emotional response but a volitional act, commanded by God, that mirrors His own character. Just as God is "abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness" and "forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" ([Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6-7 "Exodus 34:6-7 - God's Character")), so too are His children called to embody this limitless grace. The requirement of repentance underscores the biblical principle that while God's grace is vast, it is extended to those who turn from their sin. This verse challenges believers to dismantle any self-imposed limits on forgiveness, recognizing that holding onto unforgiveness can hinder one's own spiritual well-being and relationship with God. It calls for a radical posture of mercy, essential for healthy community and reflecting the reconciliation offered through Christ.

* [Matthew 18:21-22](/matthew/18-21-22 "Matthew 18:21-22 - Forgiving Your Brother")
* [Colossians 3:13](/colossians/3-13 "Colossians 3:13 - Bear with Each Other and Forgive")
* [Ephesians 4:32](/ephesians/4-32 "Ephesians 4:32 - Be Kind and Forgiving")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 17:4 calls us to a profound and challenging level of forgiveness, one that transcends our natural inclinations. It compels us to examine the depths of our own hearts, confronting any bitterness, resentment, or desire for retribution we might harbor. This teaching reminds us that true forgiveness is not contingent on the offender's worthiness but on our obedience to Christ's command and our desire to reflect God's character. It's a call to cultivate a spirit of radical grace, recognizing that we ourselves are recipients of God's boundless forgiveness through Christ. Embracing this principle fosters healing in relationships, breaks cycles of hurt, and allows us to experience the freedom that comes from releasing the burden of unforgiveness. It is foundational to building a healthy, Christ-like community where mercy triumphs over judgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What personal barriers or past hurts make it difficult for me to extend forgiveness as Jesus commands?**
* **How does understanding God's boundless forgiveness towards me empower me to forgive others, even repeatedly?**
* **In what specific relationship do I need to apply the principle of "seven times in a day" forgiveness, and what practical steps can I take?**

### FAQ
**Does "seven times in a day" mean I only have to forgive up to seven times, and then I can stop?**

Answer: No, the phrase "seven times in a day" is a figure of speech known as hyperbole, used by Jesus to emphasize the *unlimited* nature of forgiveness. In Jewish thought, the number seven often represented completeness or perfection. By using it in this context, Jesus is pushing His disciples beyond any humanly conceived limit, implying that forgiveness should be extended as often as genuine repentance occurs, without any numerical cap. This teaching is echoed in [Matthew 18:21-22](/matthew/18-21-22 "Matthew 18:21-22 - Peter Asks About Forgiveness"), where Jesus tells Peter to forgive "seventy times seven" (or seventy-seven times, depending on the translation), further illustrating the boundless nature of this command. The point is not a literal count, but a posture of continuous, radical forgiveness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 17:4, with its radical call to unlimited forgiveness in response to repentance, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself perfectly embodies this divine standard, not only in His teachings but supremely in His atoning sacrifice. On the cross, even as He suffered unimaginable pain and injustice, He prayed, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus' Prayer on the Cross")). This act of forgiveness, extended to those who were actively sinning against Him, demonstrates the very heart of God's limitless mercy. Through His death and resurrection, Christ made it possible for humanity, who had "trespassed" against God countless times, to "turn again" in repentance and receive complete forgiveness and reconciliation with the Father ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Redemption Through Christ")). The forgiveness we are commanded to extend to others is therefore not merely a moral duty, but a reflection of the profound, unmerited forgiveness we have received from God through our union with Christ ([Ephesians 4:32](/ephesians/4-32 "Ephesians 4:32 - Be Kind and Forgiving")). Our capacity to forgive, even "seven times in a day," flows from the wellspring of Christ's own boundless grace poured out for us, empowering believers to live out the very character of the One who redeemed them.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 18:21

¶ Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

Matthew 18:22

Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

Colossians 3:12

¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

Colossians 3:13

Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.

Romans 12:20

Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Matthew 6:14

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

Matthew 6:15

But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.