• New Testament Reading: Matthew 18:1-35
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 32:1-5
• Points to Ponder

“Lord, How Many Times?”

What is the problem in the world and in our lives? God’s word makes it clear: the problem is sin.
The first part of this chapter reminds us most vividly what a serious problem sin is. Our sin leads
others into sin, even those little ones who believe in God. “But woe to the man through whom they
come!” That’s the bad news. Sin is a reality in our world and in our lives. Sin is also a reality in the
fellowship of God’s people. So much so that Jesus has given us a plan for what to do when “a
brother” sins against us.

If sin is the problem, then forgiveness is the solution. We often joke about Peter’s question, “How
many times?” He didn’t get it and needed to be reminded again that forgiveness must be
unconditional and ongoing. But are we so different? Seven times doesn’t seem like much, but when
it is the same person (Peter’s question) that you must forgive, how easy is seven times? Jesus
response is not for us to lengthen our check lists from seven to seventy-seven, but that we’ll
understand that we must always forgive. Is there anyone you need to forgive from your heart today?

• Questions to Consider: Who are you most like: the king or the unmerciful servant? Is there
anyone, anyone at all, whom you need to forgive from your heart today?