Devine Scripture

Matthew 18:23

What does Matthew 18:23 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 18:23 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 18:23 means

Jesus began the parable of the unforgiving servant by likening the Kingdom of Heaven to a king who decided to audit his servants' financial accounts. This scenario sets up a context of accountability and obligation within a royal court, reflecting God's ultimate authority and humanity's inherent indebtedness to Him. The impending reckoning signifies a time when every individual will be called to account for what they owe, establishing the premise for the shocking disparity in debts that follows.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, who would make a reckoning with his servants.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, who would make a reckoning with his servants.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For this reason the kingdom of heaven is like a king, who went over his accounts with his servants.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`Because of this was the reign of the heavens likened to a man, a king, who did will to take reckoning with his servants,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened to a king, who would take an account of his servants.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For this cause the kingdom of the heavens has become like a king who would reckon with his bondmen.

Context

This verse introduces the parable that illustrates Jesus' teaching on unlimited forgiveness (verse 22). It sets the scene with a common ancient practice of kings settling accounts, immediately establishing a context of financial obligation and divine authority. This introductory scenario then quickly leads to the presentation of the first servant and his enormous debt in verse 24, which underpins the entire lesson on forgiveness.

v.22Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but, Until seventy times seven.

v.23This passage

v.24And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, that owed him ten thousand talents.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 13:31

    Another parable set he before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

  • Matthew 25:1

    Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

  • Matthew 13:52

    And he said unto them, Therefore every scribe who hath been made a disciple to the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, who bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.

  • Matthew 3:2

    Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

  • Matthew 13:44

    The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

  • Matthew 25:14

    Forit isaswhena man, going into another country, called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

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