Holy Bible Online 
In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter approached Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times should I forgive my brother who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus replied, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven.”
This passage teaches us about the importance of unconditional forgiveness. By saying 70x7, Jesus was using a Hebrew expression that symbolizes an infinite number of times. He shows us that we must forgive our brothers and sisters repeatedly, without limits, just as God forgives us.
Forgiving does not mean forgetting or tolerating evil; rather, it is an act of love, compassion, and mercy. Forgiveness frees us from the weight of resentment, anger, and bitterness, allowing us to experience peace and reconciliation with God and with others.
By instructing us to forgive 70x7, Jesus calls us to adopt a continuous attitude of forgiveness in our lives. He reminds us that just as we are forgiven by God, we must extend the same forgiveness to others.
When we face difficult situations regarding forgiveness, it is important to remember that we are all sinners and dependent on divine grace. Forgiveness is not easy, but with God’s help, we can overcome bitterness and find healing in our relationships.
Practice Jesus’ teaching on unconditional forgiveness by forgiving not just 7 times, but without limits. May the love of Christ guide you and empower you to live a life of forgiveness, reconciliation, and love for others.
The Forgiveness of God is the Basis of Our Forgiveness
Forgiving is difficult. How can we overcome hurt and offer forgiveness, even when the other person doesn’t deserve it? Jesus gives us the answer.
After saying we should forgive 70x7 times, Jesus told a parable about a man who owed a large sum of money to his master. He owed so much that he could never repay it, even if he lived multiple lives! The man begged for mercy, and his master forgave the debt.
Later, the forgiven servant encountered another man who owed him a small amount of money. He demanded the money and showed no compassion when the other man begged for mercy, throwing him into prison until he could repay the debt. The master heard what he had done and was very angry because his servant had learned nothing from being forgiven. Therefore, he handed the servant over to be tortured until he could repay his debt.
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
- Matthew 18:35
Whenever we commit a sin, we sin against God. We are like the servant who had an impossible debt to pay. But when we receive Jesus as our Savior, God forgives all our sins! He forgives us because He loves us. All we need to do is believe.
If all our sins have been forgiven, how can we refuse to forgive those who sin against us? If we do not forgive, we show that we do not yet understand God’s forgiveness. Can we truly call ourselves Christians if we refuse to forgive?
Forgiving is not easy. Hurt and other negative feelings do not always disappear instantly. We need Jesus' help. Everything begins when we are willing to forgive. And the forgiveness of God is our great motivation to forgive.
The first step to forgiving is to remember how much God has forgiven us.
Note: Forgiving does not mean staying in an abusive or dangerous situation. It means letting go of resentment and the desire for revenge. You have every right to protect yourself and avoid harmful situations. In the case of a crime, you also have every right to seek the support of the police and justice.
You could also read: