Bible Study recap, Matthew 18.21-35

As we discussed the finer points of slavery in Roman Empire, or the economic implications of talents and denarii, or how exactly does someone pay off a debt while in prison and presumably unable to work, we noticed how easy it is to get caught up in the details and miss the point. The point being about forgiveness and being willing to offer it -- to treat others as we have been treated by God.

Granted we read the scriptures through our 21st century lens and understanding. "Slave" from this side of American history is quite different from the honour-shame system of the Greco-Roman world.

Upon further discussion, this parable is not as nice as it appears on the surface. There was some concern and disappointment with the fact that the (human) lord's forgiveness was conditional and revokable. Is then the divine LORD equally apt to renege?

Forgiveness in our lives goes beyond others who owe us a debt. As we look at the conflicts between entire groups of people based on politics, religion or economics, there is a role for forgiveness between nations. Certainly there are times when we must forgive God. Or ourselves. But our society sees forgiveness a sign of weakness, of capitulation and caving in.

Instead, we gain so much more from offering forgiveness. It takes so much energy and effort to harbour a grudge. Could that energy be channelled into something more positive or constructive instead? The vengeance factor keeps us at loggerheads with those who've apparently wronged us.

We see this demonstrated in the litigious nature of society where everyone is quick to sue and slow to converse. There is a sense of entitlement that makes us think someone should pay for pain and suffering, harm and damage.

The saying goes, "Fool me once; shame on you. Fool me twice; shame on me". How can we find a place for forgiveness 77 times over in a world like ours? Or Jesus' world for that matter. Seems like there's a lot of work yet to be done.