King James Version
Matthew 18:23 in the King James Version says “Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.”
Matthew 18:23 · King James Version
Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.
And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. talents: a talent is 750.ounces of silver, which after five shillings the ounce is 187.li. 10.s.
But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“is the kingdom”
G932properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
“of heaven”
G3772the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
“would”
G2309to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
“account”
G3056something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
“of”
G3326properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
“servants”
G1401a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Matthew 18:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Matthew 18:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge