Matthew 18:23

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

Therefore {G1223}{G5124} is the kingdom {G932} of heaven {G3772} likened {G3666} unto a certain {G444} king {G935}, which {G3739} would {G2309} take {G4868} account {G3056} of {G3326} his {G846} servants {G1401}.

Because of this, the Kingdom of Heaven may be compared with a king who decided to settle accounts with his deputies.

Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, who would make a reckoning with his servants.

Matthew 18:23 introduces one of Jesus' most significant parables, often called the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. This verse sets the stage for a profound lesson on the nature of divine and human forgiveness, directly following Peter's question about how often one should forgive (Matthew 18:21).

Context

This parable is found within Matthew Chapter 18, a section primarily dedicated to teachings on humility, forgiveness, and the responsibilities of disciples within the community. The immediate preceding verses (Matthew 18:21-22) feature Peter asking Jesus, "Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?" Jesus' response, "I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven," underscores the boundless nature of forgiveness required of believers. Verse 23 then begins with "Therefore," indicating that the parable serves as an illustration and explanation of this radical call to unlimited forgiveness, demonstrating why such forgiveness is essential for those who belong to the kingdom of heaven.

Key Themes

  • The Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus frequently used parables to reveal truths about God's reign and spiritual realities. Here, the "kingdom of heaven" is presented as a realm where divine principles of justice, mercy, and forgiveness operate.
  • Accountability and Stewardship: The imagery of a "king, which would take account of his servants" highlights the concept of divine accountability. Just as servants were responsible for managing their master's resources, humanity is accountable to God for how we live and manage what He has entrusted to us, including our relationships.
  • Divine Authority: Though not fully revealed until later in the parable, this opening verse hints at the king's absolute authority to judge and also to extend mercy. The king represents God, who holds ultimate authority and will one day call all to account for their deeds (Romans 14:12).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "take account" is synairō logon (συναιρω λογον), which literally means "to take up a reckoning" or "to settle an account." This is a commercial term, vividly depicting a financial audit or a settling of debts. It emphasizes the serious nature of the king's intention to assess what is owed to him, setting the stage for the enormous debt that will be revealed in the subsequent verses of the parable.

Practical Application

Matthew 18:23 serves as a crucial introduction, reminding us that we are all servants of a divine King, and there will be a time of reckoning. This verse immediately places the discussion of forgiveness within the larger context of God's sovereignty and our accountability to Him. It prompts us to consider our own standing before God and prepares us for the profound lesson that our willingness to forgive others is directly linked to the immense forgiveness we have received from God (Ephesians 4:32).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 13:24

    ¶ Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

  • Romans 14:12

    So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

  • Matthew 13:44

    Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

  • Matthew 13:45

    Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

  • Luke 19:12

    He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

  • Luke 19:27

    But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay [them] before me.

  • Luke 16:1

    ¶ And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.
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