But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
What does Matthew 6:15 mean?
Christ saw it needful to show his disciples what must commonly be the matter and method of their prayer. Not that we are tied up to the use of this only, or of this always; yet, without doubt, it is very good to use it.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside Matthew 6:11-15 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Matthew 6:15
But if you forgive not men their trespasses,.... On the other hand, where men are not of a forgiving temper to their fellow creatures and fellow Christians, how can they expect forgiveness at the hands of God? or what sense of pardoning grace can there be upon their minds? Had they any right apprehensions of the grace and goodness of God, in the forgiveness of their sins, this would influence their minds, and engage their hearts to forgive such who have offended them: wherefore, where this is wanting, it may be concluded of, and said to such persons, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Key words
- forgive
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But if you forgive not men their trespasses,.
- trespasses
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But if you forgive not men their trespasses,.
- forgive
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But if you forgive not men their trespasses,.
Context in Matthew 6
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Matthew 6 belongs to the early movement of the book, especially the section often described as birth and preparation. Matthew presents Jesus as Davidic Messiah, new Moses, teacher of the kingdom, suffering Son of Man, and risen Lord who commissions the nations. Read this chapter with the wider themes of fulfillment, kingdom of heaven, and discipleship in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Passages on asking, persistence, confession, dependence, and the way prayer shapes Christian life and attention.
Bible verses about forgiveness
A reading list on divine pardon, repentance, reconciliation, and the demand to forgive others because God has first forgiven.