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Matthew 18:33

Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

Matthew 18:33 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Bible, found in the book of Matthew, emphasizes the importance of showing compassion and forgiveness to others. It tells the story of a servant who was forgiven a great debt by his master, only to turn around and refuse to forgive a small debt owed to him by a fellow servant. The master reprimands the servant for his lack of compassion, asking him why he did not show the same mercy that he had been shown. This verse serves as a reminder that we should be willing to forgive others as we have been forgiven, and to show kindness and understanding to those around us. It highlights the importance of treating others with the same grace and mercy that we would hope to receive ourselves, and encourages us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes towards others. Ultimately, this verse teaches us that compassion and forgiveness are essential qualities for living a life that is in line with the teachings of the Bible.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the parable of the unforgiving servant in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is instructing his disciples about the importance of showing compassion and forgiveness to others. The theological interpretation of this passage emphasizes the concept of forgiveness as a core teaching of Christianity. By comparing the actions of God towards us with our behavior towards others, Jesus highlights the importance of extending the same compassion we have received to those around us. The word "compassion" in this verse comes from the Greek word "οἰκτιρμός" (oiktirmos), which conveys a deep feeling of empathy and sympathy for someone in distress. This word study reveals the depth of emotion and understanding required to truly forgive others in the same way God forgives us. Ultimately, Jesus is challenging his followers to embody God's love and mercy in their relationships with one another, reflecting the grace and forgiveness we have received from Him.

Matthew 18:33 in other translations

American Standard Version

shouldest not thou also have had mercy on thy fellow-servant, even as I had mercy on thee?

World English Bible

Shouldn’t you also have had mercy on your fellow servant, even as I had mercy on you?’

Douay-Rheims

Shouldst not thou then have had compassion also on thy fellow servant, even as I had compassion on thee?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Oughtest not thou also to haue had pitie on thy fellowe seruant, euen as I had pitie on thee?