Why Did Jesus Say “Forgive 70 Times 7”? Understanding the Meaning of Matthew 18:22

Forgiveness is a fundamental teaching in Christianity, and one of the most well-known verses on the subject is Matthew 18:21-22. When Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him, Jesus responded:

“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” – Matthew 18:22 (NKJV)

This statement has puzzled and inspired Christians for centuries. What did Jesus mean by “seventy times seven,” and why did He choose this number? In this article, we will explore the context, meaning, and significance of this powerful teaching on forgiveness.

1. The Context of Matthew 18:21-22

Peter’s Question About Forgiveness

Before Jesus gave His famous response, Peter approached Him with a question:

“Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” – Matthew 18:21

In Jewish tradition, rabbis often taught that people should forgive up to three times for the same offense. This teaching was based on Amos 1:3-13, where God forgives Israel’s enemies three times before bringing judgment.

By suggesting seven times, Peter likely thought he was being generous. Seven was seen as a number of completeness in Jewish culture. However, Jesus’ answer went far beyond human expectations.

2. What Does “Seventy Times Seven” Mean?

Not a Literal Number, But Unlimited Forgiveness

When Jesus said, “seventy times seven,” He did not mean believers should keep a literal count of 490 offenses and then stop forgiving. Instead, He used hyperbole (exaggeration) to emphasize that forgiveness should be limitless.

Jesus was teaching that true forgiveness has no restrictions or quotas. Just as God continually forgives us, we should also extend forgiveness to others without keeping score.

Biblical Symbolism of 70 x 7

Numbers often have symbolic meanings in the Bible:

• Seven represents completeness or perfection (Genesis 2:2-3, Revelation 3:1).
• Seventy often symbolizes a great multitude or divine completion (Genesis 10:70 nations, Exodus 1:5, Luke 10:1).

By saying “seventy times seven,” Jesus was reinforcing the idea that forgiveness should be infinite and complete, just as God’s mercy is boundless.

3. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23-35)

Right after this statement, Jesus illustrated His teaching with a parable about forgiveness:

The Story

• A servant owed his king 10,000 talents, an impossible debt.
• The king, in great mercy, forgave the entire debt.
• Later, the same servant refused to forgive a fellow servant who owed him a much smaller amount (100 denarii).
• The king was furious and revoked his forgiveness, punishing the unmerciful servant.

The Lesson

• God’s forgiveness is immeasurable. The servant’s huge debt represents our sin against God.
• We must forgive others just as God forgives us. The second servant’s small debt symbolizes the offenses we experience from others.
• Unforgiveness brings consequences. The unforgiving servant was punished, showing that refusing to forgive leads to spiritual bondage (Matthew 6:15).

4. Why Did Jesus Emphasize Unlimited Forgiveness?

1. Because God Forgives Us Without Limits

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes God’s mercy:

• Lamentations 3:22-23 – “His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.”
• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.”

Since God does not limit His forgiveness, we are called to imitate Him.

2. Because Holding Grudges Leads to Spiritual Harm

Unforgiveness creates:

• Bitterness (Ephesians 4:31)
• Broken relationships (Matthew 5:23-24)
• A barrier between us and God (Mark 11:25)

Forgiving others sets us free from emotional and spiritual burdens.

3. Because Forgiveness Demonstrates True Christian Love

Jesus taught that love and forgiveness go hand in hand:

• 1 Corinthians 13:5 – “Love keeps no record of wrongs.”
• Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another… as the Lord forgave you.”

Forgiving “seventy times seven” reflects God’s love through us.

5. How to Apply “Seventy Times Seven” Forgiveness in Daily Life

1. Forgive Even When It’s Difficult

Jesus never said forgiveness would be easy, but He commanded it. Pray for God’s strength to forgive (Philippians 4:13).

2. Stop Keeping Score

Holding onto past wrongs is not true forgiveness. Ask God to help you let go of resentment and release the pain.

3. Understand That Forgiveness Does Not Mean Trust Is Instantly Restored

• Forgiving someone does not mean you ignore wisdom or set yourself up for further harm.
• Forgiveness and rebuilding trust are separate processes.

4. Pray for Those Who Hurt You

Jesus taught, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44). Praying for someone softens your heart and aligns you with God’s will.

6. Conclusion: The Power of Unlimited Forgiveness

When Jesus said, “forgive seventy times seven,” He meant:

✅ Forgiveness should be limitless, just as God’s mercy is.
✅ Keeping count of offenses is not true forgiveness.
✅ Unforgiveness brings spiritual harm, while forgiveness sets us free.
✅ Forgiveness is a reflection of Christ’s love.

If you struggle with forgiveness, remember how much God has forgiven you. Just as we have received grace upon grace, we are called to extend the same mercy to others.

Jesus’ words challenge us to forgive without limits—not because the offender deserves it, but because we have been forgiven first (Ephesians 4:32).