Definition: And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 18:3. It’s a really important one about how we relate to God and what it takes to get into Heaven. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that you can’t enter into the Kingdom of Heaven (God’s home) without changing your way of thinking and behaving. It’s not just about being nice; it’s about fundamentally transforming yourself. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And said” : This is Matthew, the author of the Gospel, saying something important. “Verily” : This means “Truly.” It's an emphatic way of saying something. “I say unto you” : He’s explaining something very serious. “Except ye be converted” : This is the crucial part. "Converted" means to change your beliefs or ways of thinking. It means to turn away from wrong things and towards right ones. It's about a fundamental shift in your heart. “And become as little children” : This is where it gets really important! The verse describes how you should become like a child. So, what does this mean? It means that if you don’t change your ways – if you don't grow in faith and love – you won’t be able to enter into Heaven. A child is innocent, trusting, and eager to please God. It’s about a state of pure, childlike devotion. The implication is: We need to strive for a relationship with God. Our lives should reflect the kind of person God wants us to be – loving, forgiving, humble, and obedient. It’s a test of our faith. Matthew 18 says this happens with one person. It means that if we don't change, it will be a really difficult thing for God to accept us into Heaven. In short: To get into Heaven, you need to grow in your relationship with God and become more like a child. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts further? For example, would you like me to: Give an analogy? (like comparing it to growing up or learning something new) Discuss the significance of the image of a child?

Definition: And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from Matthew 18:30: “And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.” Here's a simple explanation in plain language: Basically, this verse means: God is willing to punish someone for their sins, but He doesn’t immediately do it. Instead, He actively chooses to put that person in jail – essentially locking them up – until they have paid what they owe. Let's unpack it a bit further: “And he would not…” This is a key part – God isn't just going to let sin go unchecked. He’s taking action. “…but went and cast him into prison…” This describes the action God takes. He chooses to imprison someone, which signifies that they are being held accountable for their wrongdoing. “Till he should pay the debt.” This is the core of the verse – The punishment isn't just a warning; it’s about facing consequences for their actions. “Debt” in this context refers to sin and its negative impact on everyone. It means they need to make amends for what they’ve done. What does this verse teach us? God’s Justice: It shows that God is a just and righteous being, who wants to punish wrongdoers. The Importance of Repentance (Turning Away from Sin): This verse emphasizes the need for people to repent – to confess their sins and turn away from them – because it's not enough to simply not do something wrong; you must also take responsibility. God’s Patience (But Not Forever): God is willing to wait, but He doesn't want to hold anyone indefinitely. He wants the person to understand the seriousness of their mistake and make amends. It’s a powerful image: It depicts a situation where someone is being held captive for their actions until they are ready to fulfill their obligation. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the story in Matthew 18? Discuss what it might mean for individuals to be 'put into prison' in a metaphorical way?

Definition: So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 18:31. It’s a really important part of understanding Jesus’ teachings about leadership and forgiveness. Here's the simple explanation: Basically, it means when Jesus witnessed something wrong among his followers – a serious transgression – they were deeply upset and shared their concerns with Him. Let's unpack that a little further: "So when his fellow servants saw what was done..." - This refers to the fact that Jesus’ followers were experiencing a problem. It wasn’t just a small mistake; it was something significant and potentially damaging. "...they were very sorry..." – They felt remorse and regret about what happened. It wasn't just a minor offense; they acknowledged wrongdoing. "And came and told unto their lord all that was done." - This is the crucial part. They went to Jesus and told Him everything . They confessed everything they saw, even if it was difficult or shameful. They weren’t hiding anything. What's the point of this? Jesus wants us to understand that when we see something wrong, it’s important to speak up . It shows humility and a willingness to take responsibility. It also demonstrates a deep concern for others – that they’re not alone in their problem. Why is this important? This story teaches us about: Accountability: It highlights the importance of speaking truth, even when it's uncomfortable. Forgiveness: When we see someone wrong, it’s crucial to tell them and then forgive them. Leadership: Jesus showed that leaders must be honest and willing to admit mistakes. He wasn’t afraid to face his own wrongdoing. In short, this verse is a reminder that when we witness wrongdoing, it's vital to share it with those in authority – like Jesus – to encourage repentance, forgiveness, and ultimately, healing. --- Would you like me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of a specific concept within this verse (like forgiveness)?

Definition: Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 18:32. It's a really important and somewhat complex passage about forgiveness. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is describing a very significant moment in Jesus’ ministry – after he had just finished teaching his disciples about the importance of forgiveness. He’s addressing a specific person who was deeply in debt. Let's unpack it word by word: “Then his lord, after that he had called him…” - This means Jesus was talking to this particular servant after he’d finished explaining something important about God and His forgiveness. It sets the scene – a moment of reflection. “…said unto him, O thou wicked servant…” – “Thou” is a formal way of addressing someone. "Wicked servant" means someone who has done wrong or been guilty of something. This suggests this person had made a significant mistake and was in trouble. “I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me.” - This is the core of the verse. Jesus did forgive him. He let go of the debt. He didn’t just give him a small amount; he completely cleared it. What does this mean in simpler terms? It means Jesus showed compassion and mercy to this person who had been causing trouble. He recognized that they were seeking forgiveness, and he gave them what they needed – a chance to be free from the burden of debt. The Significance - It’s about more than just a debt: This passage is incredibly important because it illustrates several key Christian principles: God's Love & Compassion: Jesus shows us that God loves everyone, even those who have messed up. Forgiveness as a Gift: Forgiving someone isn't always easy, but it’s a powerful act of love and mercy. It sets the stage for reconciliation and healing. Important Note: The verse is often interpreted as a model for how Jesus would handle difficult situations with people who have wronged him or others. --- Do you want to explore any of these aspects in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story – what was happening before and after this verse? Why this particular story is significant (like its role in Jesus' teachings)?

Definition: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 18:33. It’s a really important and complex passage about forgiveness and responsibility. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: This verse is asking us to consider if we are being fair and kind to someone who has wronged us, just like Jesus did with his disciples. Let’s unpack it step by step: “Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant…” – "Thou" is a formal "you," and “compassion” means feeling sympathy and kindness towards someone who's suffering or in trouble. It's about showing them understanding and letting them feel better. “…even as I had pity on thee?” – This is the key part. Jesus was talking about his experience with his disciples. He’d shown them immense mercy, especially when they were being cruel to him. He had felt pity for them. Putting it all together: The verse essentially says: “Did you show kindness and understanding to someone who wronged you just like I did for you?” It's a question about whether we are holding ourselves to the same standard of compassion that Jesus showed us. What’s the Big Idea? It’s a reminder that God expects us to treat others with kindness, even when they’ve hurt us. It’s a call to be forgiving and understanding – to not hold onto anger or resentment. Jesus' example is a powerful guideline for how we should respond to wrongdoing. Important Note: This verse isn't about always being compassionate. It's about showing compassion, especially when someone has made a serious mistake. --- To help me explain this verse further and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What specifically are you curious about? Are you struggling with forgiveness? Do you want to understand the context of the parable?

Definition: And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Matthew 18:34. It’s a really important and complex part of the Bible, and it speaks about forgiveness and consequences. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, this verse means: Jesus was punished severely for something he did – think of it like a big mistake he made. When he was caught, his tormentors (people who were punishing him) didn't let him go easily. They kept him in jail, and eventually, they gave him a very difficult situation where he had to pay back all the things he owed them. Let’s unpack it further: "His lord was wroth..." : This means Jesus was incredibly angry and upset with something he did. It wasn't just a little annoyance; it was a big, serious mistake that hurt God. "...and delivered him to the tormentors..." : He was taken away and put in a situation where he was facing punishment – likely being held captive and subjected to harsh treatment. "...till he should pay all that was due unto him." : This is the core of the verse. Jesus was told that he had to compensate for his wrongdoings. “Due unto him” means "to him" - meaning everything he did wrong needed to be paid back. It’s a big, total debt to be settled. It's about Justice and Reconciliation: This verse is really important because it shows that God has a very just way of dealing with people who break His rules. Jesus wasn't just punishing him; he was setting up a system where he would have to give back what he had taken from others. Important Note: It’s often misunderstood to think this verse means everyone needs to be punished for every mistake. It’s about a specific situation and a very important principle: repentance (turning away from wrongdoing) is essential. Jesus wants us to show that we are sorry and change our ways. In short, this verse describes a severe punishment for a wrongdone and emphasizes the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a particular biblical story or concept?

Definition: So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 18:35. It's a really important and thought-provoking statement about forgiveness. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God wants everyone to forgive others, just like he forgives us. It’s a core principle of Christian teachings about love and relationships. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you..." : This part speaks about God’s plan for how He will handle our interactions with others. It's not just any forgiveness, but a special kind of forgiveness designed for us. “Heavenly Father” refers to God himself. "...if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses." : This is the core of the message. It means that if you don’t forgive others as quickly and completely as God does, it's a sign that you are struggling with something in your heart – perhaps anger, resentment, or bitterness. "Every one his brother..." refers to disagreements, hurts, or offenses between people. "Trespasses" means serious wrongs - things that go beyond just a minor disagreement. What does this mean practically? It’s about genuine forgiveness: It’s not enough to say you're sorry; you have to truly forgive the person who hurt you. Don’t let anger control you: Holding onto anger and resentment will only make things worse in the long run. God wants us to move beyond those feelings. It takes time: Forgiveness isn't always easy, and it might take effort. The Significance This verse highlights a crucial truth: our actions have consequences, and we are responsible for how we treat others. It emphasizes that God’s love is so profound that He wants us to model this kind of forgiveness – showing compassion and understanding even when it's difficult. In short: God desires forgiveness from everyone, and if you don't forgive others, it shows a deeper issue within yourself. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Give examples of how this verse applies in real-life situations?