Matthew 18:23 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus begins a parable comparing the kingdom to a king settling accounts.
What Does Matthew 18:23 Mean?
To show what limitless forgiveness looks like, Jesus tells a story. The kingdom of heaven is like a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants, calling in what was owed to him.
The setting is a royal reckoning, a day when every debt comes to light. This frames forgiveness within a larger truth: we all stand as servants before a King to whom we owe more than we can pay. The parable will measure our mercy toward others against the mercy shown to us. Before it speaks of forgiving, it reminds us that we are debtors first.
Matthew 18:23 in the Original Language
sundouloi (σύνδουλοι), 'servants' -- here the king's own bondservants, accountable to him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 18:23
What does Matthew 18:23 mean?
Jesus begins a parable comparing the kingdom to a king settling accounts.