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Explanation for:
Matthew
6
:
14
For if you will forgive men their offences, your heavenly Father will forgive you also your offences.
15
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Scripture states: I said: Ye are gods and sons of the highest of all. But you die like men and fall like one of the princes. These words are directed toward those who, despite their divinity, have fallen into sin and thus lose their rightful status as men. Therefore, in justice, those who have received forgiveness for their transgressions are also referred to as men."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"As previously mentioned, the Saviour, desiring to demonstrate His profound disdain for vindictiveness and to highlight the virtues that oppose such vice as pleasing to Him, brings to mind this significant virtue after prayer. He encourages His listeners to adhere to the commandment against unkindness, both through the consequences that will follow and the promise of a reward. Here, Christ once more references heaven and the Father, aiming to convict the listener, reminding him that as a child of such a Father, he should not remain unkind, nor should he let earthly wisdom cloud his judgment regarding his heavenly calling. Being a child of God requires not only grace but also righteous actions. Nothing reflects our likeness to God more closely than when we forgive those who wrong us. The Saviour previously illustrated this truth by stating that the heavenly Father allows His sun to shine on both the righteous and the wicked. This is why He instructs us to engage in communal prayer, saying: Our Father! Thy will be done, both in heaven and on earth; give us this day our daily bread; forgive us our debts; lead us not into temptation; deliver us. In urging us to voice our requests on behalf of all, He thereby teaches us to harbor no shred of anger towards our neighbors."},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"I fully recognize that, if you possessed wealth, you would generously share it with those in need, and I find it remarkable how upset you become when those who wronged you seek your pardon. In truth, this free offering of grace often proves to be just as significant for us as financial assistance; for our redemption hinges on our willingness to be merciful and our ability to forgive those who trespass against us. \\"Let it go, and it shall be done unto you,\\" proclaims the Divine Word."},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"It is important not to overlook the fact that among all the teachings in which the Lord has instructed us to pray, the emphasis on forgiveness of sins stands out as the one we should remember most. He calls us to extend mercy, as this is essential for avoiding hardship. Indeed, in no other prayer do we communicate with God in a manner akin to entering into a covenant. We declare, \\"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors\\" (Matthew 6:12). Should we fail to honor this covenant, all our prayers hold no value. For the Lord asserts, \\"If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.\\""},{"author-name":"Isaiah the Hermit","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d84ba9f49624b317355_Isaiah%20the%20Hermit.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The Holy Apostle urged his followers, “The Lord is at hand. In every situation, present your requests to God through prayer and supplication accompanied by thanksgiving” (Phil. 4:5, 6); “and let the peace of God dwell in your hearts” (Col. 3:15). Furthermore, in the Gospel of Mark, the Lord instructs His disciples, “Forgive others their wrongs so that your Father in heaven may forgive your transgressions” (Mk. 11:25, Mt. 6:14). This is a solemn word from the Lord: if you realize your heart is not pure towards others, refrain from making requests to God, as your sins offend Him. When you are burdened by another’s failings and approach the Searcher of hearts, claiming “Let me keep my sins,” you do not pray sincerely, but utter words from ignorance. A true supplicant who wishes to pray earnestly to God in the Holy Spirit with a clean heart examines his own heart before praying to see if he harbors ill will against anyone. If he does, he misleads himself with his prayers, for no one hears him. Thus, the mind does not genuinely pray, though the schedule of prayers is maintained.\\n\\nTo engage in prayer genuinely, first examine your thoughts: determine what lies within you. When you plead, “Have mercy on me,” ensure you are extending mercy to those who seek it from you. When you implore, “Forgive me,” remember to forgive those who have wronged you. When you request that your transgressions not be remembered, ensure you hold no grudges against your neighbor’s sins. When you pray to overlook the evils, both deliberate and inadvertent, that you have committed, make sure you too forget the wrongs of others. If this is the case, you will harbor no negative thoughts against anyone. Otherwise, if you have not reached this point of forgiveness, your prayer is fruitless; according to all Scriptures, God will not hear you—grant me mercy.\\n\\nThe Lord also said in the Gospel of Matthew, in relation to prayer, “And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). In the Gospel of Luke, He stated, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Mt. 6:14, Mk. 11:25). St. Luke emphasizes, “Release them, and they will be released” (Lk. 6:37). Essentially, I have shown you boundless love; whatever you desire from God for yourself, you must first enact towards your neighbor. Only then will you find yourself liberated from sin, according to the extent you have practiced forgiveness towards others. If you have purified your heart regarding every creation of God, ensuring there are no grudges in your heart, heed this: for God embodies truth, and is not merely the sounds of spoken words. Thus, each person binds themselves to Gehenna and frees themselves from it. Nothing is more ruthless than the human will, whether it seeks death or seeks life."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"As we have reiterated, the discussion on this matter has been expanded upon, demonstrating that this endeavor is highly pleasing to God. Reflect on the magnitude of His humanity. He has entrusted us with the ability to forgive those who wrong us. You might argue that the offenses of the person who has hurt you are vast and considerable. Yet, your own transgressions are even more numerous and severe. Moreover, this individual has sinned against the same servant, while your sins are against the Lord; you must release others even as you seek release for yourself, while God requires no such forgiveness. Thus, when you choose to let go, you liberate yourself, for you have dispelled anger, cast aside bitterness, embraced compassion, appeased God, and secured your own pardon."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"He instructs us once more to forget all wrongdoing and calls to mind the Father, instilling in us a sense of shame, so that we do not behave like brute creatures as His children."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"Do you perceive the boundless humanity of God? He does not convey His message with authority like the Almighty, nor with force like the All-Powerful, nor in a prescriptive manner like the ultimate Lawgiver, but rather as a fellow human being, He communicates mutual understanding. In His agreement with humanity, He establishes a condition that may render a person unresponsive. He states, if you forsake the sins of those who have sinned before you, your heavenly Father will pardon your transgressions; yet if you do not abandon the wrongdoings of your neighbors, God will not forgive your offenses. Erase hatred from your heart so that God might also turn away His anger from you. In light of such a compassionate and just expectation from the Lord, what thoughts should arise in the hearts of those who, while not renouncing the sins of others, pursue them to the point of death, all the while seeking forgiveness and spiritual redemption? Our Savior, having imparted this wisdom as preparation for a blessed fast, subsequently instructs on fasting itself, saying, “When ye fast, be not as the hypocrites who frown, for they disfigure their faces that they may appear to be fasting. Amen, I say unto you, they shall receive their reward.”"},{"author-name":"Tichon of Zadonsk","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989ff6b5b4c943e70095_Tichon%20of%20Zadonsk.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":18,"exegesis-text":"It can be challenging for individuals living within a community to avoid wrongdoing against one another in some manner, whether through spoken words, actions, or other means. The adversary consistently plants seeds of discord, stirring conflict among us and attempting to disrupt our harmony and brotherly affection, fostering feelings of animosity. This underscores the vital importance of extending forgiveness to one another for our transgressions. \\n\\nThere are several compelling reasons to pardon our neighbor’s wrongs. First, God commands us to forgive those who offend us, placing an obligation on us to adhere to His directive. Failing to do so constitutes a sin against God Himself, as it reflects disobedience and resistance to His will, which is a serious matter. Second, the essence of Christian love calls for us to show mercy towards our brother who, succumbing to human frailty and the devil's influence, has wronged us. Rather than seeking revenge, we should offer forgiveness, ensuring that he does not fall victim to the vengeful spirit and helping us avoid the regret of having caused him suffering. It is common for both the one who offends and the one who seeks retribution to feel remorse; however, what has been done cannot be undone. Therefore, it is crucial to anticipate these feelings and prevent anger from escalating into hatred and spite, extinguishing any sparks of evil promptly with a spirit of gentleness and compassion.\\n\\nThird, let us be inspired by the abundant mercy of God, which is perpetually extended to us sinners. This divine grace is so vast that, regardless of how frequently our neighbor may err against us, we are called to forgive in light of the immense mercy God shows us. The wrongs others commit against us are but a minuscule fraction when compared to our own offenses before God, for daily we find ourselves guilty. We all share a common humanity and a sinful nature, being merely \\"earth and ashes\\" (Sir. 10:9); in relation to God, who views all light as insignificant, we are as nothing. Thus, how significant is it when a person sins against another, and that individual offers forgiveness? The true enormity lies in a human, being a weak and sinful creature, sinning against the Great, Infinite, Holy, and Righteous God, and yet receiving His forgiveness through repentance, along with the experience of unspeakable mercy! This divine compassion is beyond both words and understanding.\\n\\nConsequently, let the pride and malice within us be humbled and silenced, particularly when considering the pettiness of holding grievances against a brother, especially when the Great and Holy God shows such tenderness, patience, and mercy to those who err! \\n\\nFinally, let us recognize the tremendous blessing that comes to those who forgive the offenses of their neighbors. For those who extend forgiveness find a welcoming path to the grace of God, allowing them to seek forgiveness for their own transgressions in the name of Christ: “If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”"},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Loving those who oppose you serves not only to bring tranquility to your spirit but also acts as a profound guidance for them; it positions you in a role akin to that of an apostle, transforming you into an instrument for their journey towards righteousness. For this reason, our compassionate God assures us of the forgiveness of our transgressions in response to our love for our enemies, as if attributing to us the virtues that we inspire in others, highlighted by this single principle: “But if... If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”"},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"These passages clarify the thoughts expressed in verse 12 regarding the cancellation of debts. Every individual stands as a sinner before the Lord, varying in degrees of sinfulness both towards God and one another. Genuine peace and love can only be achieved through the reciprocal forgiveness of offenses between individuals. This is why the scriptures emphasize the importance of forgiving one another’s wrongs and grievances, as noted especially in Matthew 18:21-22. The wrongs people commit against each other are minor and trivial when weighed against their transgressions before God. Therefore, a person who fails to forgive their neighbor demonstrates a lack of awareness of their own sinfulness in the sight of God. Consequently, they remain unable to receive God’s forgiveness, which necessitates true repentance and a humble acknowledgment of their own wrongdoing."},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"To those who turn away from sin, He assures us of certain forgiveness; however, this comes with the requirement that we forgive those who have wronged us, those who have sinned against us. As stated, \\"But if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses\\" (Matthew 6:14, 15). With such a lack of compassion in our hearts, dear brothers and sisters, we should reconsider how we approach the Lord's Prayer if we desire it to be received."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Nothing repulses God more than bitterness. The realm of God embodies peace and humility, characterized by unity and brotherly affection. Can one who is prideful and vengeful enter this realm? Clearly, such an individual belongs more appropriately in eternal separation. This is why the Savior, after teaching the model of prayer, emphasizes that the forgiveness of our transgressions hinges on our actions, indicating that God’s judgment over us is within our control: “IF YOU FORGIVE PEOPLE THEIR SINS,” their offenses against us, “THEN YOUR HEART OF HEAVEN WILL FORGIVE YOU.” In this way, St. John Chrysostom remarks, “the Savior makes you, the sinner, a judge of yourself,” suggesting that the judgment you render upon yourself is the very judgment I will apply to you. By pardoning your neighbor, you will also receive grace from Me, although My grace will far surpass your own. You extend forgiveness because you too are in need of pardon, while God forgives without requirement; you forgive your brother, yet God forgives his servant; you are burdened by countless transgressions, but God remains sinless. “Our debts are unrepayable,” notes St. Philaret of Moscow, “but the terms set before us regarding them are remarkably simple! If you forgive people their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”"},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord has instructed us to pardon our neighbors for their offenses against us: ‘But if you forgive men their trespasses,’ He stated, ‘your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses’ (Matthew 6:14-15). These words imply that a genuine sign of the forgiveness of our sins is the recognition in our hearts that we have truly let go of all the wrongs done to us by others. This condition can only be achieved through Divine grace, as it is a divine gift. Until we receive this gift, we must, in accordance with the Lord's teaching, reflect on our consciences before each prayer. If we find remorse, we should eliminate it by the aforementioned approach, which involves praying for our enemies and offering them blessings (Mk. 11:25). When thoughts of our adversaries arise, we should permit no other contemplation about them beyond that of prayer and blessing."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Inhibition of Ostentatious Fasting\\n\\nIn cautioning His disciples against the dangers of pride, Jesus instructed them to avoid performing righteous acts and praying for the sake of being noticed or praised by others. Similarly, He urged His followers to fast in a manner that would go unnoticed by those around them. \\n\\nThe Value of Fasting\\n\\nAs previously mentioned, overindulgence in food and drink can weigh down the stomach, cloud the mind, and diminish the will. Many of us have likely experienced these consequences of excess. Therefore, at times, it is essential to refrain from food and drink in order to bring the body into subjection to the spirit, especially during the battles against temptation and for a heightened awareness of one’s sins, self-examination, and repentance. Fasting can be complete or partial, and its duration can vary based on the individual's strength and the intensity of the temptation faced. Ultimately, fasting should be for the individual’s own spiritual triumph over a desire-driven body, rather than for the purpose of appearing pious.\\n\\nIn that era, the Pharisees were particularly conscious of their outward display of fasting. The Jewish customs often included regular washing and anointing with oil; such practices were necessary due to the heat of Palestine. Nonetheless, the Pharisees chose not to wash, unkempt their hair, avoided anointing themselves, donned tattered garments, and threw ashes on their heads to attract attention and mislead others with their peculiar appearances. Their fast was less about true fasting and more about the illusion of piety; the crowds they deceived would commend them for this facade, which satisfied the hypocrites, as this was their sole motivation. \\n\\nHowever, Christ calls for a different approach to fasting from His disciples. He admonishes them not to appear sorrowful or gloomy while fasting, to maintain their usual appearance, and, in general, to avoid drawing attention to themselves. This fast is not for others to see, but for oneself, and ultimately directed toward the heavenly Father, who observes all actions in secret and knows one’s innermost thoughts. As He recognizes the sincere good deeds, prayers, and fasting performed privately, He will reward them openly.\\n\\nIt is important to clarify that Christ’s teachings do not prohibit the visible practice of good deeds and prayers, provided they are not done for the sake of human recognition. Likewise, fasting is not discouraged if it serves to bring the body into submission to the spirit for the purpose of enhancing prayer and repentance, rather than to gain the admiration of others. \\n\\nThe aim of human existence on this earth is to attain eternal joy in the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, individuals should focus on what guides them toward this divine objective: selfless love for both neighbors and adversaries, performing acts of kindness, self-reflection, repentance, fasting, and prayer. These are the true treasures necessary for entering the Kingdom, treasures that cannot be taken by thieves or destroyed by decay, unlike the temporal riches of this life that are susceptible to loss."}]}
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