Matthew 18:35
“So my heavenly Father will also do to you, if you don’t each forgive your brother from your hearts for his misdeeds.””
What does Matthew 18:35 mean?
Jesus is describing what happens when we refuse to forgive others from a genuine place within ourselves, not just with our words. He's saying that God's forgiveness toward us operates on the same principle: if we hold grudges and bitterness in our hearts, we cut ourselves off from experiencing God's mercy in return. This doesn't mean God stops loving us, but rather that unforgiveness creates a barrier that keeps us from receiving the healing and grace that God freely offers. It's an invitation to let go of what we're holding onto, knowing that the freedom we give others is the freedom we ourselves will experience.